Her eyes widen. “How much did you pay for it?”
“I don’t remember. Twenty thousand, give or take with tax? Why? Do you want one?”
The color drains from her face. “You spent twenty thousand bucks on anespresso machine?”
“I have needs, Lana.”
“So do I, but that’s worth more than half of my yearly salary!”
I rock back on my sneakers. “I know it sounds excessive…”
“That’s because itis.”
“Forgive me for enjoying the finer things in life.”
“It’s your money, so do what you want with it. I’m just surprised anyone would spend that kind of cash on coffee.” Then let us hope she never finds out how much I spent on the new mattress, bed linens, and couch in the guesthouse.
“Please. This is nothing. Wait until you see the state-of-the-art grill I bought.”
She blinks. “You bought a grill knowing you’re only going to be here temporarily?”
“Of course. I thought maybe I could tempt you into making some of your mom’s carne asada one of these days.”
Her mouth drops open.
“It’s a really fancy grill with all the bells and whistles and stuff most chefs drool over. I swear you’ll love it.”
She opens her mouth, only for it to slam shut.
I rub at the back of my neck. “I can cook for you too, although I can’t promise it will be half as good.”
“You would cook for me?”
“You and Cami,” I correct.
Something flashes in her eyes before disappearing.
“You—We…” She rubs her temple in small circles. “You know what? I’m going to wipe this entire conversation from my brain.”
“What did I say?” I reach out for her hand, only to have her step away before I have a chance.
“Nothing. I’ve got to go get Cami ready for her dance class.” Lana disappears back into the house, leaving me to wonder what I said wrong this time.
Story of your life.
***
I’m bored.
I bounce the tennis ball against the ceiling while I wait for Iris to reply to my message. With the contractor and his team already fixing up the exterior of the house, including replacing the roof, vinyl siding, and old windows, I have nothing else to occupy my time.
Lake Wisteria doesn’t have many options for entertainment. Unless I want to drive thirty minutes away to go see a movie, I am stuck with either bowling by myself, hanging out at the park on the other side of the lake, or spending the rest of my day online shopping.
My phone vibrates against the couch.
Iris
Have you tried picking up a new hobby?