“Not at all, but I don’t think I can get to Warrenton in a half hour.”
In fact, I knew I couldn’t.I’d already checked the distance on the map, and it was at least an hour away.More if the engine overheated again.Plus I needed to use the bathroom and top off the coolant first, and Shiro would need a potty break before another journey.
“That’s no problem—just use PayPal.Or Venmo.Or Cash App.I can take any of those.”
“I only have actual cash.My bank account… It was a joint one, and the relationship didn’t end well.I’m starting over.”
“I’m real sorry to hear that.”
“If I leave right away, I could be in Warrenton by two thirty.”Hopefully.
“How about Western Union?I wish I could be more trusting, but I already had one no-show, and I need to make sure my parents’ mortgage gets paid this month.”
“I…I’ve never used Western Union before.”
Ridge had always taken care of the finances, and before that, Mom had helped me out.
“It’s super easy—all you have to do is show your ID, then give them the cash and my details.I can text you with those.I’m Tiffany, by the way, but the account is in my dad’s name.”
“And I’m Jessalyn.Could you also send me the address of the house?”Agreeing to a rental without seeing the place was a risk, but it was also my best chance of finding a new home.“And do you have any more pictures?”
“I have plenty.What do you want to see?”
“The kitchen and the yard?”
“Do you like cooking?”
“I love it.”
“In that case, I really hope you take the room because Kendra burnseverything.”
The photos arrived a minute later, a dozen of them, and holy crap, the yard even had a pool.The kitchen was stunning—antique-finished sage-green units with marble counters and stainless-steel appliances.It looked like a model home.There were even fresh flowers on the windowsill.Tiffany had included extra pictures of the available room, and it came with an en-suite and a walk-in closet.I’d have to live on ramen until I managed to get my first paycheck, but I couldn’t afford to pass up this chance at a new life.Maybe the other girls wouldn’t mind letting Shiro out occasionally so I could work extra hours?I’d be happy to repay the favour by cooking.For the first time since I left Maine, I saw a glimmer of sunshine.
The map app showed me that the house itself was set on an oversized lot in a nice development with trails meandering through a forest to the rear and a park nearby.No wonder Tiffany’s parents wanted to return for their retirement.
I quickly sent her a message.
Me
I’m going to the Western Union office right now!Is it okay if I come over after that?
Tiffany
Can you do 7 pm?That would work better for me.
Me
Sure!
“We can sleep in a proper bed tonight, boy.No more car seat.”
Shiro tilted his head to one side.
“How do you feel about swimming?”
He didn’t seem so enthusiastic, but I couldn’t hold back my smile.Screw you, Ridge.I can do this on my own.
CHAPTER9
