“What neighborhood? What budget?”
I consider.
“I love old, and I want space. Not the Quarter. Somewhere residential. And room for a dog if I decide I want one without having to follow it around like its personal turd butler.”
Meg snorts.
“Okay. Algiers Point, maybe? They’ve got some cute houses that aren’t insane money.”
“I haven’t thought about it. Maybe we drive around first, do drive-bys, get the vibe before we go inside?”
“Yep. And I’ll research agents so we have someone to call when you’re ready.”
Within seconds, we’re both engrossed, comparing listings.
“Oh, handy fact,” Meg says. “Fall and winter are the best time to buy. So yes, you’re doing this right even if it’s by accident.”
There’s a place in Algiers Point listed under four hundred thousand. A split shotgun duplex with a yard, hardwood floors, and enough space to breathe. Close to the Mississippi.
We exchange a look.
“That’s first,” Meg says.
I nod. “Tomorrow.”
Chapter forty-two
Christianna
As soon as rehearsal ends, I’m packing up and heading out when Maestro Earl signals for me to stay.
I mentally chant,this can be good, it's not always bad news, and walk over.
Meg is bouncing on the balls of her feet, blonde ponytail swishing. I lift a finger at her and keep going.
I wait while the Maestro finishes a low-voiced conversation with Liu. He’s tall, dark-haired, with steady hazel eyes. Attractive in an objective way. I clock it and move on. No interest.
“Ms. Daye,” he says. “Thank you for waiting.”
“Yes, sir.”
“You’ve been holding out on me.” His tone is firm, but there’s kindness under it, taking the edge off.
“It was more of a me issue, sir.”
“And you’re past that now?”
“I am,” I say, without hesitation.
“For now, you’re second chair.” He studies me for a moment. “If you continue playing the way you have been, we may be making further adjustments.”
A flash of excitement sparks through me. I nod. “Yes, of course.”
He gives a brief, satisfied nod and turns away.
I wait until he’s out of sight, then give a small fist pump and head straight for Meg.
We pile into her car. She tells me she mapped everything out last night and that driving past a few places will help me get a feel for them.
