Page 38 of Share with Me
“Any idea what the listing price will be?”
“At least a million. It has an acre lot.” He put both hands on the balustrades. “A few blocks away a three-story with a crow’s nest went for three million earlier this year. And no yard space. Bidding war and all that.”
Really.
“Will you show me the rest of the house?” Brinley asked.
“Sure. Maybe you’ll find more good things to report to your dad. Anything to appease the boss.”
That isn’t why I want to see what else is in this house.
There were two other large bedrooms on the second floor, each with their own baths. The colors were all off-white or cream, island style. If she were to take over the project, she’d want more blues.
When they went back downstairs, Brinley saw the kitchen again. It looked bigger a second time. Spacious. A chef’s kitchen. The open floor plan was exactly what she liked. The breakfast nook was another indoor-outdoor room leading to a porch where the boardwalk began.
Brinley thought she could cycle from the bicycle shed across the boardwalk and down to the beach. The packed sand of St. Simon’s Island, especially this side of the northern beach, was perfect for cycling.
Just then a cat crossed the backyard and jumped on the railings of the boardwalk where it was highest over the dunes.
I could get a cat and —
Tobias stepped into her view. “No.”
“What?”
“No, Brinley. You’re not taking over this project. If you do, I’ll quit.”
“I didn’t say a word.”
“Exactly. I can see that look on your face. The last time you took over from your dad it was a nightmare to make all the changes you wanted. You and I don’t work well together. We bite each other’s heads off. We’re night and day. Good and evil—”
“Don’t overreact, Toby.” Brinley gently punched his arm.
“Tobias.”
“Last time I was in Europe. I’m here now. I can see this through in person.”
“And you’re here for how long?”
“A few more weeks.”
“Not enough time. I’m taking Christmas week off.” Tobias paused. “I don’t know which is worse, working with your dad or with you. I think with you because you’ll bring that interior designer from h—”
“I was just asking questions.”
“That’s how nightmares begin. Questions. Now go home. Tell your dad I’ll call him tomorrow.” Tobias turned and walked away.
“I’ll check in tomorrow,” Brinley said.
“No need. We’re fine.” He didn’t even look back. He lifted his arm above his head and waved her off.
