The Renovation (Contemporary Reverse Harem 2)

“Default? No way. There must be something you can do. What about selling it?” I suggested.

“I wish. I’m under water on it. I owe more than I can get for it right now. The plan was to fix it up and make a killing. But that does not seem to be happening now.” She took a draw on her beer.

I looked at Carter and could tell he was pretty much thinking the same I was.

“You know, since I work in real estate, I might be able to help you with some options,” I said.

“Oh, thank you. That’s okay, but thank you.”

“So what needs to be done with the house anyway?” I asked.

She let out a long sigh and laughed. “How much time do you have? No, really, it’s a long list. It needs to be taken down to the studs in some rooms, new electrical, some plumbing. New kitchen and bathroom.”

“Whoa. Jesus,” I said.

“I’ve seen the house,” Carter chimed in. “It has great bones. Really awesome potential. It’s a shame the last owner let it go like he did. But it’s nothing that some hard work can’t fix.”

“Well, there you go,” I said to her.

“I’m sure you’re right about that.” She glanced at her watch. “Guys, I hate to break up a g party, but I have to get back to the office for a bit more work. I’ll see you both in the neighborhood?”

We said our goodbyes, and she was gone.

“Damn, buddy. That’s one woman I’d like to spend a bunch of time with,” I said.

Seriously. I hadn’t realized exactly how cute she was until she was walking out the door. Tight skirt hugging her little butt, white blouse with the collar turned up, and some spike-heeled boots. She caught me staring when she looked back over her shoulder just before letting the door close behind her. I was busted.

I didn’t care.

I wanted her to know I was interested.

“I feel the same way. We have a date set up for next week,” Carter said.

“I know you’re looking forward to that, buddy.”

“I am,” he said, nodding. “I am.”

“So tell me. What’s the house really like?”

“Well, it’s a shithole at the moment. But, like I said, it would be a pretty straightforward job. Nothing too complicated. Really basic stuff.”

“The stuff you do every day, right?”

“Yup.”

“Then, what are you waiting for?”

He shrugged. “I’m not sure she wants my help. She seems kind of proud. And I tell ya, that boyfriend she had. What a douche. Totally had his head up his ass. Always acted like he was better than other people. Including her.”

“Well, he was obviously an idiot. Who would let someone like her go? I sure as hell wouldn’t. You think she’ll be interested in our unique arrangement?”

“Dunno.”

“Well, I guess there’s only one way to find out.”

Carter nodded. “And I think we’ll know pretty soon.”