Finding a reason to smile, I slide in the car and head to the store. I see Vickie waiting by a door at the rear of the building marked ‘B.’
“Hey Callie, thanks for coming by. I’m excited to show you the apartment.”
I follow her pencil skirted behind up a narrow staircase,arriving at a landing that opens into a large room that houses a kitchen, living room, and dining room. I’m surprised by how much space there is. The furniture included perfectly complements the layout. There’s a large, plush grey sofa against the wall with windows across from a TV stand holding a large television. There’s a coffee table, an armchair, and a bookshelf in the corner, just waiting for books.
There’s a smaller four-person table near the kitchen which is bright with white cabinets and gray and black veined stone counters. The floors are vinyl plank that mirror sun-bleached wood. The whole place has a grey, white, and black theme but it’s perfect for adding my own touches. I am so grateful it’s furnished so I don’t have to do that too.
“There’s also a bedroom and bathroom through here.” She leads me down a hallway to a clean and relatively new bathroom with a large bathtub I can lay in, and a small circular window. The bedroom is large, with a king-sized bed in the middle of the wall, flanked by nightstands. There’s also a large dresser, a small desk, and a small walk-in closet.
“Vickie, this is perfect.” She smiles knowingly, as though she expected nothing less. “Seriously, so perfect,” I whisper as I wander from place to place, touching furniture and surfaces. A giddiness fills my chest. I’ve never had my own place before. I’ve only lived with my parents and then under Roger’s thumb. I can’t wait to buy pink pillows, paint, and cover the bed with stuffed animals. Put girly books and decorations on the bookshelf. Everything Roger hated.
After a quick discussion about moving in—whenever I want—and writing a check—six months up front—I sign the lease, take the keys, and practically float down the stairs.
Behind the wheel of my car, I pull out my phone.
I got an apartment. I can move in whenever.
Cowboy Cash
Hurricane, this is the best news I’ve ever heard. You’re staying.
I open my texts with Duke and type multiple messages, telling him my news before deleting it over and over. Closing my texts, I pull out of the parking lot and decide to head into a larger town, where they have a Wal-Mart and get some stuff for my new apartment.
I yell in excitement as I park. My new apartment.
I have an apartment!
In Inspiration, Montana.
I also have a Cash.
The thought makes me kind of sad. I almost had a Duke also.
Cowboy Cash
Hey, if you want to watch the Rodeo, I’ll be riding tonight, Thursday, Friday, and Saturday. The show is always on at Waylon’s. Stop in, Duke is a nice guy. A little quiet. Tell him I sent you.
I bang my forehead into my steering wheel. I know he’s a nice man. Quiet, too.
Sure thing, Cowboy. Ride well, or whatever they say.
Cowboy Cash
I’ll win a fancy buckle just for you.
Next time I’m at the ranch, I want to see the buckles.
Cowboy Cash
Whatever you want, darlin’.
Now I’m thinking about your buckles. And your belt…
Cowboy Cash
That can be yours too, if you want it.
Head in the arena, Cowboy.
