Page 45 of Here & Now

“You should try it sometime.”

Zane picked up his beer and took a long drink. As he set it down, someone came up behind him and placed a manicured hand on his shoulder. Marco’s face split into a huge grin.

Zane swiveled around to face the owner of the hand.

“Hi, Zane. Long time no see.”

“Kayla, hi.”

“I need to visit the little boy’s room. Why don’t you have a seat?” Marco offered.

Kayla nodded and slipped into his chair as he strode off. “How’ve you been?”

“Good. How about you? How’s the real estate business?”

“Booming. It seems like the northerners are flocking to Florida these days.”

“Haven’t they always?”

She laughed.

“It’s funny we ran into each other, because I was just talking about you today.”

“You were?” She leaned forward, and he tried not to notice her blouse gaping open.

“I know someone who might need your help.”

“Buyer or seller?”

“Seller.”

“Tell me more.”

“She’s my next-door neighbor (but not for long), and the house belonged to her grandparents. They’re both deceased, and she wants to sell it.” He recalled Bree saying she wished she didn’t have to sell and the sad look in her eyes. Still, he’d rather have her work with Kayla than sleazy Scott Duggan.

Kayla dug a notepad and pen out of her purse, and that also reminded him of Bree. “What’s her name and number?” she said eagerly.

“I don’t have her number, but I can give you her address.” He made a mental note to ask for Bree’s phone number—just in case.

Kayla wrote down the information and tucked the pad and pen back into her purse. “Thanks. I’ll stop by and see her on Monday.”

Macy reappeared with the men’s food, and she looked confused when she saw Kayla sitting there.

“He’ll be right back,” Zane said as she set down the plates. She nodded and walked away.

“I’ll let you eat,” Kayla said, though she didn’t seem in any hurry to leave.

He decided a little small talk wouldn’t hurt. “How’s Rob?”

“I have no idea. We broke up six months ago.”

“Oh. Sorry?”

She smiled. “Don’t be. I’m enjoying being single again. How about you? Anyone special in your life?”

He immediately thought of Bree but shook his head. “Single here too.”

She gazed at him intently, and he shifted in his seat. Thankfully, Marco reappeared, and Kayla stood.