AllFreeNovel
Share Us
I set up some showings on Wednesday morning for Easton. On the way, I stopped at the coffee shop before meeting him at the first space.
When I approached, he was already there, leaning against the brick building, a bouquet of flowers at his side. My heart picked up at the colorful arrangement.
When he saw me, he winked and pushed off the building. “For you.”
I smiled, trading the coffees for flowers. “I can’t say any of my clients have ever brought me flowers.”
For the first time, he looked uncertain. “It’s not creepy, is it?”
His vulnerability was endearing.
“If a client did it, but you’re more than that, aren’t you?” We’d texted during the day and talked on the phone at night after Maddie was asleep. It was nice, and it felt like we were dating, slowly getting to know each other.
The last time I spoke to a guy on the phone was in high school. I liked the slower pace, even with our unconventional start.
“More than friends, I hope.”
Warmth filled my body. “Let’s go inside.”
It was the smallest option, but it had the best location, in the middle of town across from Fountain Park.
The location was so cramped that it was a quick tour. When I locked up, Easton said, “It’s nice, but I was hoping for something with more character.”
“And space?” I asked as I led the way to the second.
He nodded. “That, too. My place in Annapolis is on Ego Alley.”
“Ah. I’ve been there a time or two. That’s a great location.”
“It’s not historic like these. It was recently built. There are open windows with a view of the water. I have a patio area to display my chairs and ottomans.”
“Let’s skip the second option, then. I think I have the perfect space for you.”
I curled a hand in his elbow as we walked and sipped our coffees. When we passed my SUV, I dropped off the flower arrangement.
It was the perfect fall day, sunny with a slight chill in the air. The leaves fell to the ground in front of us in hues of orange and red.
Chester River came into view as we walked to the edge of town.
The building was on the corner with windows facing the street and the water, letting in a lot of light. It had hardwood floors, and to one side, there was an area where Easton could easily display his furniture.
“This is it?” Easton asked when I stopped to unlock the door.
I smiled as I pushed open the door, excited to see his reaction. “I told you it was perfect for you.”
I let him take in the space, not pressured to fill the air with words. As a realtor, it was a tactic I’d honed over the years. Some buyers needed the constant chatter, suggestions for what could be improved, but I sensed that Easton needed quiet.
He slowly pursued the space before stopping at the banister. “What’s on the second floor?”
“Space for an office or storage.”
He tipped his head. “Can I look?”
I smiled. “Absolutely.”
“Is this place for rent or sale?” he asked as we headed upstairs.
“It’s actually for sale.” My heart thumped harder that he was interested.
