Riddle (7 page)

“I imagine it’s a real nuisance to say the least. Hopefully they’ll get your car fixed up and you can get on the road again, if that’s what you choose to do.” She continued. “As a rule we only have six month and one year leases. However, as you may have noticed, we have a lot of construction going on right now. We are modernizing some of the older units and developing additional units further up the hill. We have a few units that are furnished to be shown as examples of what the apartments look like. But those are the older units and we aren’t really showing those since we are trying to get renters interested in the new apartments. Nothing fancy; a one bedroom has a living room, kitchen, small breakfast nook, and of course a bed and bath. I thought we could do a month to month rental since you aren’t sure how long you’ll be here. Normally the unfurnished one bedroom units rent for three hundred a month. Since this is furnished I can let you have it for four hundred a month. That includes your utilities of course.”

Grace bit her lip uncertainly. It would cost her a little less than that weekly at the hotel. Plus she wouldn’t have to eat out; she could buy food and cook meals.

“Is that something you can do?”

“Can I see the apartment?” Grace asked buying time to consider her options.

“Of course!” Cindy Blount opened a locked drawer in her desk and pulled out a set of keys. “I know it seems like a lot but if think about everything that’s included it’s a good deal.”

Grace followed the older woman around to the back of the building and was surprised to see apartments with small gardens around the lower level and some with terraces on the second level. “I just want to make sure I’m not getting in over my head. I appreciate what you’re doing. Please don’t think I’m ungrateful.”

Cindy mounted the steps and went to the back of the second building. “No, not at all. I appreciate you being cautious.” She opened the door and they stepped into a bright apartment. It was sparsely but neatly furnished. Grace was surprised to see the small terrace off the breakfast nook. While the rooms were not large they were certainly bigger than the room she had at the motel.

The kitchen appliances were older but she tried everything and they all worked. Although the carpet was old and worn it was clean and she could tell the rooms had recently been painted.

Cindy watched her closely. Obviously she liked the apartment. She respected the young girl’s sense of responsibility. “I really shouldn’t do this but I’ll waive the damage deposit too. Since you don’t really know anyone here I doubt you’ll be having wild parties.”

Grace chuckled. “I’m not the wild party type. I really just need a place to live until I can get my car back on the road.” Giving one more quick glance around the living room she nodded. “I think this is perfect. And I guarantee no wild parties.”

“Well let’s go down to the office and get the paperwork done.” Locking the door behind them Cindy led the way back to the office.

Grace could hear the sounds of men working a short distance away and the tops of the other buildings were just visible above the roof of what would be her building. The property was built on a hill and it looked as though it extended quite a distance back.

As she sat at the desk to complete her application Cindy told her a little about the property. “We have a pool but it’s closed for the season. There is a laundry room at the end of this building and the mailboxes are at the end of this road. Unfortunately there are no dishes or linens or anything. But there’s a Goodwill in town where you can pick some things up pretty cheaply unless you want to go to one of the stores of course.”

“Goodwill sounds fine. I won’t need much.” Grace handed the completed application to Cindy. “How soon can I move in?”

“I’ll call Jack at the diner before I leave today. Technically I have to run a credit check but honestly this is not a long term lease so I’ll do it but I won’t wait for it to come back. How about Thursday?”

“That’s perfect! I’m off on Thursday.” She laughed. “Not that I have a lot to move.”

Walking Grace to the door Cindy replied, “Well it’s all set then. I’ll see you Thursday to pick up your key.” She handed Grace a business card, “If you think of anything you need to know just give me a call.”

Saying good bye Grace headed to the complex exit. As she started down the hill toward the main road she uttered a prayer of gratitude that the walk was downhill. It had grown cooler and the sun was covered by clouds now. Hoping it wouldn’t start raining Grace set out at a brisk pace. The tall trees shaded the road making it feel even cooler. It wasn’t going to be easy making this walk every day but she may not have to do it for long. It was funny how easy it was to get used to driving everywhere. She wondered how far it was to a shopping center where she could pick up some things for the apartment. It would be nice if she could get to that Goodwill. Maybe there was a taxi or car service she could use one or two times. It was something she would have to look in to. Grace was lost in thought as she walked and didn’t hear the truck coming up behind her. Suddenly it pulled off the road in front of her blocking her path.

Chapter 12

The afternoon passed quickly for Kort after Chad introduced him to the crew. The job wasn’t too different from what he had done at the prison. Most of the crew members were older than he was which was fine with him. Chad walked him around the site and it was apparent this was a big job for the company. Walking down to the management office Chad asked if he had seen anyone from the old days since he’s been back.

“Norma picked me up from the bus. I was surprised to see her actually. I didn’t think anyone knew I was coming back that day.”

Shaking his head Chad laughed shortly. “Kort she’s been after you since high school. I’ve run into her over the years and I know she kept in touch with your mother. I kind of wondered about that because I got the impression your mother wasn’t particularly fond of her.” He glanced at Kort. “By the way how is that going? You staying with her?”

Kort sighed heavily as he responded. “For now I’ll stay with her, unless she throws me out.” Then he laughed. “Or I run away.”

The remark made Chad laugh harder. “I would understand if you did.” Then he sobered. “I went to your father’s funeral. You know she never shed a tear. That woman is made of stone.” Feeling slightly guilty for the comment he back tracked. “I’m sorry. I shouldn’t say that.”

Shaking his head Kort told him he was right. “She still has his clothes in a closet. In fact, this is one of his ties. She insisted I wear it today so I’d make a good impression.” Grinning he asked Chad, “So did I make a good impression?”

Returning the grin Chad said, “Definitely! The tie was the selling point.” They were almost at the office. “I hope things go alright with your mother. You know if it doesn’t we can work something out.”

“I appreciate that Chad.”

Reaching the door to the management office Kort followed Chad inside. Cindy Blount was seated at her desk typing furiously on her laptop. When she looked up and saw Chad a broad smile lit up her face. “Hey! One of my favorite people!” She stood up and came around the front of the desk.

“Cindy, this is Kort Eriksen. He’s going to be working with the crew and I wanted to introduce you.”

She looked Kort up and down appraisingly. “Don’t you have any unattractive guys on your crew?”

Her comment startled Kort but he maintained his composure. He managed a small smile.

“No I only hire eye candy. I like to keep my female clients happy.” Turning to Kort he said, “Cindy is a big flirt but she’s harmless.”

Laughing she agreed. “I just like to tease Chad. He was as nervous as a frog on a hot rock when he first came in. I guess he heard the rumors about my temper. But it’s all talk. As long as the job gets done I’m as quiet as a mouse. And Chad gets the job done.” She stuck out her hand to Kort. “Welcome aboard Kort Eriksen. Can I offer you a cup of coffee or some water or something?”

Kort finally spoke. “No thanks Ma’am. I’m fine.”

Winking at Chad, Cindy said, “He’s pretty and polite. You’ve upped your standards.” Returning to sit behind her desk she continued. “Do you guys need anything from me today?”

“Nope. I just wanted Kort to know who he had to watch out for.” Turning to Kort he asked, “Can you find your way back to the site?”

Kort nodded and Chad continued. “I have a few things to discuss with Ms Cindy so why don’t you head back and get Frank to show you the plans so you have an overview of what we’re doing? I’ll be back in a little while and we can head out for the day.”

As he walked back up the hill he took a good look at the complex. It was very well maintained and the setting was remote enough to make it feel like a private estate. Shrubs and trees were neatly trimmed and flowers still bloomed alongside the walkways. Shut off from the main road by tall trees it had a country feel even though it was not far from the busy main road.

The crew was still working and the sound of hammering and drilling were the only sounds that filled the air. Frank, the foreman, was leaning against a company truck talking on his cell phone. He nodded at Kort signaling him to come over. Shoving his phone into his jacket pocket he unrolled the building plans on the hood of the truck.

“Chad wanted me to show you what we’re doing and what we’ve done so far.” As Frank went over the plans Kort began to get excited. This was a lot more interesting than anything he’d worked on at the prison. In fact he had never actually been shown building plans before. Frank took his time showing Kort details and explaining them to him. When he finished he asked if Kort had any questions.

Shaking his head and breathing deeply Kort said, “I’m sure I will have.”

Frank studied him carefully. “I think Chad has plans for you. So if you have questions ask me. “

“Thanks Frank. I don’t know if Chad has plans or not but I appreciate your help.  I don’t know a lot about building and I want to learn. Any help you can give me means a lot.”

Frank nodded just as Chad joined them. “Okay guys let’s look at what we want Kort to do tomorrow.” He looked up at the darkening sky. “Hopefully the weather will hold.”

With that he and Frank began to discuss the plans for the next day. Almost an hour later Chad clapped his hands together. “Well gentlemen, I think we have a plan. Kort you come straight here in the morning. What time do you want him here in the morning Frank?”

“Let’s get an early start in case the weather turns on us. How about coming in around seven?”

“Sounds good,” Kort agreed. “I’ll see you then.” Walking back to his truck Kort felt as though a weight had been lifted from his shoulders. He hadn’t realized how worried he’d been. Little by little things were coming together. Little by little he was building a life. He climbed into his truck and slowly started down the hill towards the main road. He didn’t notice the police car parked at an angle near the rental office. As he turned on to the main road he noticed the sky had grown darker. Hopefully the weather would be good the next day.

Up ahead he saw someone walking on the side of the road. He recognized the bright copper hair and wondered what Grace was doing walking along the road. Pulling his truck slightly off the road in front of her he leaned out the window. “Hey Grace Donahue, are you following me?”

Grace stopped short, startled to see Kort. Not moving forward she called back, “It looks more like you’re following me.”

Laughing he said, “Maybe you have a guardian angel who sends me every time you need a ride. Where are you headed?”

Still not moving and more than a little nervous she told him she was on her way to the motel.

Kort could feel the tension in the air and realized she must have heard about his history. “I can give you a lift if you want.”

They stared at one another for a moment before Grace began moving toward the truck.”Maybe I do have a guardian angel.” She stopped beside the driver’s door. “You do show up at the most opportune moments.”

Kort studied her closely. Her odd green eyes were serious and seemed to bore into his head. Although her body seemed relaxed he could still feel the tension in the air. She was like a spring waiting to snap if he said or did anything threatening. “It’s a small town. I guess we’re going to run into one another now and then.”

Suddenly a smile spread across her face. “Who am I to turn down a guardian angel?”

Her response surprised and pleased him. “Hop in.” Leaning over he swung open the passenger door. As she buckled her seat belt he asked, “Why are you wandering around up here? It’s quite a walk from the inn.”

Brushing her hair back from her face she sighed heavily. “Yes it is a long walk. But I’ve rented an apartment in the complex back there.”

His surprise deepened.  “You have got to be kidding.”

Grace looked at him out of the corner of her eye. “Don’t tell me you live there.”

Laughing Kort shook his head. “No, no. I work there. Well I’m starting tomorrow officially. I’m in construction.”

“Wow. I’m moving in on Thursday.” Then playfully she asked, “Are you sure you aren’t following me?”

Kort laughed harder and held one hand up, “I promise. I had no idea. I didn’t even know you were looking for a place to live.”

Settling back in her seat Grace shook her head. “I couldn’t afford to stay in the motel until my car is fixed. And I don’t think Jerry would let me sleep in it in the garage. But I got a good deal and the manager seems nice.” Smiling at him she continued, “Maybe you’re my good luck charm.” Then she felt her face grow warm. Hoping he didn’t think she was being flirtatious she stopped talking.

“Or maybe you’re mine.” He didn’t notice she had grown quiet. “How’s the restaurant job going?”

“It was just the first day but it’s easy. I can’t complain. My feet are killing me though.” The buzzing of Grace’s cell phone interrupted the conversation and as Grace pulled it from her pocket Kort remember he planned to get one that afternoon. Grace studied the screen on the phone for a second as it continued to buzz. Frowning she silenced it and shoved it back into her pocket.

Kort cleared his throat debating what he could say. She looked upset; no she looked angry.  The silence grew heavy and Kort had made up his mind not to say anything else when Grace apologized. “I’m sorry about that. It’s just someone I didn’t expect to hear from; someone I don’t want to hear from.”

“No problem.” They reached the road where the motel was located. “
I’ll bet it’s her ex- husband
,” he thought. Glancing at her left hand ring finger he could see what looked like the imprint of a ring. “
Oh well. None of my business.”
Then the phone gave a little jingle.

Unexpectedly she laughed. “It’s a voice mail. I am really sorry.”

“Really, it’s fine. Do you know a lot about cell phones?” He wanted to change the subject and he could use some information. The old flip phone he’d had years ago didn’t look anything like the phone Norma had or the one Grace had shoved into her pocket.

“A little, why? Are you going to get a new one?”

Kort realized he had opened a door that might have best been left closed. “Screw it,” he thought. “She knows I’ve been locked up.” But before he could answer she broke in.

“I’m sorry. That was really stupid. I forgot about your…” she hesitated,”…your situation.”

Something about the way she said it, the expression on her face when he glanced at her made him laugh. “It’s okay. I think I’ll start calling it that, my situation.”  The motel was two blocks away. “I need to get a cell phone and damned if I know anything about the new ones.”

Grace pulled hers out again. “I guess it depends on what you want to use it for.”

“I thought I might make a phone call sometime.”

She stared at him and wondered if he was joking. “Well you know you can do a lot of other things with these too.”

He pulled into a parking space in front of the motel and turned to look at her. “I know Grace. But right now I don’t have an e-mail account, I only have one person’s phone number unless you count my P.O. and my boss, and I don’t plan any trips in the near future.”

If he hadn’t been smiling Grace would have thought he was being a smart ass. But he was smiling; a bright smile that said he was just playing.

“Well that narrows it down.” She handed him her phone. “This one is pretty good. It’s not very expensive and you can get all different types of rate plans.”

Kort examined the phone. “Now you have me confused.” Handing the phone back to her a thoughtful expression crossed his face. “Are you busy right now?”

Grace squinted at him. “That depends.”

“Would you go with me to get a phone? Just help me out and make sure I don’t buy some complicated gadget I won’t be able to use.”

Grace studied his face closely. “You want me to help you pick out a phone?”

“It’s not like I have a line of people offering. You’re here.” Then a wide grin split his face. “After all I helped you get a job.”

Her mouth dropped open in disbelief. Then she realized he was at least partly joking.

“I’ll even spring for dinner as an added incentive.”

“I-I don’t know what to say. I really don’t know that much about phones, I mean, I …”

Feeling foolish Kort stopped her mid sentence. “I’m sorry. That was out of line. You don’t know me. Hell what you do know isn’t good.”

“Hey, hey hang on. I would like to help you get a phone. I just don’t want to encourage you to get something crappy. And you don’t have to buy me dinner. But you can do me a favor in return.”  Grace’s heart was pounding. She had been about to decline but his reaction made her feel bad. After all he had pretty much stuck his neck out for her when it came to getting the diner job.

Kort leaned back in his seat. “Look you really don’t have to do this. I guess I’ve forgotten how to behave with people. I do understand that you don’t know me. And I don’t blame you at all.”

It had begun to rain and fat drops hit the windshield, running down in long thick streaks. She could hear it hitting the roof setting up an ever increasing rhythm.  “Is there a pizza place in Riddle?”

Shaking his head in confusion Kort asked, “What?”

“Pizza. Do you have pizza in this town? You do know what pizza is right?”

“Yeah. It’s that dough stuff with tomato sauce and cheese on it,” he said jokingly. “There used to be one. It’s probably still here.”