“Nope, only to give you and Luigi a nice place to live close to everything you love.” Elvira listed a reasonable monthly rental rate, at least it sounded reasonable to Carlita based on what she charged her tenants directly across the alley.
Dernice tapped her foot on the floor. “I have to say, it sounds like a pretty sweet deal. Still, I’ll need to think about it. What about you, Luigi?”
“Are you positive there isn’t a catch?”
Elvira made an “x” across her chest. “Scout’s honor.”
“I agree with Dernice. We need to think about it.”
“The bid I got is only good for thirty days,” Elvira said. “If you wait too long, the price might go up.”
“We’ll have two incomes to put toward the rent. More space would be pretty epic.” Luigi scratched his forehead. “I hate to leave Carlita in a bind, trying to find another tenant.”
“Don’t worry about me. Bubba Benton, the new tenant who is renting Sam’s old place, has the keys and will be moving in soon. I shouldn’t have any trouble finding someone. It’s reasonably priced for a downtown location.”
“You haven’t even asked about the layout.” Elvira pulled a crumpled piece of paper from her pocket. “I figured a large, open living area facing the street with the bedrooms and bathrooms in the back where it’s quiet would work best.”
Despite Carlita’s initial skepticism, her former neighbor appeared to be genuinely trying to help Luigi and Dernice moveinto a more spacious place to start their new lives together. “Tick-tock. The clock is ticking.”
“We’ll discuss it and get back with you.” Dernice impulsively hugged her. “I gotta admit, I’m pleasantly surprised by your generosity.”
“I should be offended, but I’ll take it as a compliment.”
The group returned downstairs and gathered in the alley.
“Thanks again for the awesome surprise engagement party,” Luigi said. “The food was delicious.”
“None of you are feeling ill?” Carlita asked.
“Nope. I’m thinking Sonny must’ve eaten something bad before he got to the party,” Elvira said. “Maybe even Yvonne.”
“But two people having similar food poisoning symptoms?” Mercedes asked. “I hope you’re right, and I hope Sonny makes a full recovery.”
“I’m gonna swing by the hospital to check on him.” Elvira tapped Carlita’s shoulder. “What time do you want me to pick you up?”
“Pick me up for what?”
“To go see Sonny. I figure I can be ready within the hour.”
“I don’t…”
“Don’t want to go?” Elvira’s eyes widened. “You’re the reason he’s in the hospital.”
“You just said he could’ve eaten something bad before he got to the party.”
“He also could’ve eaten tainted food from Ravello’s. Sonny needs to believe you’re concerned about his well-being.”
“I am concerned.”
Elvira rubbed her thumb against her middle finger.
“In case he decides to sue me?” Carlita heaved a heavy sigh. “Let no good deed go unpunished. Pete and I will run home and take Rambo out. I can be ready in an hour.”
“I figured you might change your mind. I’ll text you when I’m on my way.” Elvira slipped back inside her building.
Mercedes watched the door close behind her. “She seriously digs Sonny.”
“A crush to beat all crushes,” Dernice said. “He’s not a bad-looking guy, but I’m not sure he’s my sister’s type.”
