She stills at that. “Yes … I know. But he truly made something of himself and got out of that position.”
I can’t believe her. “Mom, you do realize I work a blue-collar job, right? And just because Holly works at an elite salon doesn’t mean her job isn’t blue-collar, either. Like it or not, lady, you’re the outsider here.”
And with that parting shot, I walk out the door. I don’t know where to begin unpacking the conversation I just had with both my parents. My phone buzzes.
Becca. I stare at the screen for a second before opening it.
Becca
Don’t get excited… but we’re going to need to talk soon.
20
BECCA
Ilove the tiny cabin and its peacefulness, but sometimes those walls feel small and nothing can compete with the feel of my favorite coffee shop. Refills are free, the Wi-Fi’s strong, and the place hums with quiet energy—a perfect spot to work.
I open my laptop and pull up the two offers on Charles’s house.
Offer one: a property developer, full asking at $1.6 million. They’re waiving inspection and want to tear the house down to build condos.
Second offer: $1.4 million, from the young couple who are expecting.
I mentally prepare myself for what is to come. I’m about to recommend that my client take a $200k lower offer, which is not a common occurrence they prep you for on the real estate exam.
I look up to see Charles walk in. He spots me and waves. I wave back, already smiling.
“So, little lady,” he chimes, settling into the seat across from me, “what good news do you have for me?”
I grin. “Two offers. Both good, but very different. One’s for $1.6 million, the other for $1.4.”
Charles lets out a low whistle. “Considering what I paid for that place forty years ago, that’s a hell of a return.”
I nod. “The $1.6 offer is from a developer. They’re planning to demolish the house and build condos, at least Istronglyexpect. The $1.4 is from a lovely younger couple, they’re expecting … and when they saw the bouquet on the kitchen counter, they mentioned that they’re naming their daughter Dahlia.”
His face softens instantly. “Really?”
I nod again. “I didn’t tell you to sway you; I just thought you’d want to know. I believe the universe nudges us sometimes. If we’re paying attention.”
Charles’s eyes mist over. “The money from either offer is more than enough to take care of me and leave some for the kids. Are you okay with the lower commission?” he asks.
My throat tightens. “Of course. It’s more than enough. I’d rather see someone love the house as you and Dahlia did.”
“Then it’s settled,” he says, pulling out a pen. “What do I need to sign?”
We finalize the paperwork. In thirty days, I’ll receive the biggest commission check of my career—nearly six months’ salary.
When I step out into the sunshine, I feel something I haven’t in months. Secure.
I grab my phone and text the girls:
My listing just went pending! Let’s celebrate tonight. Doesn’t even have to be happy hour prices
.
Mack
Are you serious?! Congrats, high roller! Can’t tonight, Reece has a home soccer game.
