Page 66 of Here & Now

“I’d be happy to write up a proposal outlining my services. After you look it over, we can meet to discuss it.”

Smooth operator. Zane raised the can to his mouth and took another drink.

“When will you have it ready?”

“In a day or two, unless you’re in a big hurry.”

“No rush. That’ll be fine.”

“Here’s my card. Feel free to call me on my direct line anytime.”

Zane rolled his eyes again.

“Thank you,” she said, sounding relieved.

“I guess that’s all for now, unless you have any questions.”

“Just one. How will you determine what the house is worth?”

He’d been about to take another drink, but he lowered the can.

“There are a lot of factors. I’ll look at other home sales in the area, but that’s not all. Buying a home is an emotional decision, and I’ll focus on what makes this cottage unique, special. We’ll appeal to buyers who will appreciate it as much as you do.”

Zane shook his head, though he had to admit the guy was good. He’d obviously tapped into her attachment to the house and said exactly what she wanted to hear.

“Any other questions?”

“Not right now.”

“I’ll let you get back to your day, then.”

“I’ll walk you out.” She sounded a lot happier than earlier.

Zane heard her patio door open and close, and he let out a big sigh. A few minutes later, he heard Scott’s SUV start up and drive away.

He swam a few laps to blow off some steam. Then he climbed out of the pool and padded over to the towel draped over the patio chair.

Suddenly her patio door opened again, and he lowered himself onto the chair as quietly as possible.

“Hey, sis,” she said.

He shifted and glimpsed her through the bushes. She was wearing a yellow sundress and wedged sandals, and her strawberry-blonde hair bounced on her shoulders as she paced the pool deck with her cell phone pressed to her ear. He couldn’t believe she’d dressed up for sleazy Scott Duggan.

“I just finished meeting with a real estate agent,” she said.

He sat very still, listening to her side of the conversation.

“I found him on the internet.”

“I wouldn’t say hot, but handsome.”

He scowled, unsure that he wanted to hear the rest, but if he moved and she heard him, she’d probably accuse him of spying. That is what you’re doing!

“This has nothing to do with Zane. Besides, I’m not seeing him anymore.”

He sucked in a breath. She’d obviously told her sister about him, and he wondered what else she’d said.

“It doesn’t matter, Ivy. I’ll probably be leaving in a couple of weeks, anyway.”