Page 48 of Rousing Renee

When the call disconnected, I called Kelly back.

“Yes, Captain.”

“Condo number three.”

“I’ll send over the bid information.”

“And can you put my condo up on the for sale list?”

“On it. What about the current tenant?”

“It’s time to serve her with a thirty-day notice.”

“Understood. Captain?”

“Yeah?” I paused in the doorway of my bathroom as if she could see me.

“I’m proud of you.”

Unable to help it, I smiled. I felt lighter for making the decision. It took a little push and to be called out, but I did it.

“Me, too. Thank you, Kelly.”

“No problem.”

Now I had to figure out how to give Renee her space and be present at the same time. Double-edged sword and all.

That’s when an idea struck, and I knew it was the answer to all my problems. I sent a text to Derek and waited for him to seal Renee’s fate. Meanwhile, it was shower time.

CHAPTER 14

Renee

Master Derek texted me to let me know that the 101 Room would be available for us to do our presentation in. He’d also made that same room available for rehearsals. When I stopped by to make sure the space was clean and ready for our session today, I was surprised to see clothing racks inside and a woman on her phone. When she saw me approaching, she smiled.

“You must be Renee,” she greeted me. “I’m Kelly.”

Bombshell. She was about my height, Italian maybe, long brown hair and curves that didn’t stop. She was incredible. Her taste in clothes was immaculate as well. She wore a red off-the-shoulder dress, black wide belt with three fasteners on the side, black, white, and red sneakers, and a black knitted cable sweater. Though it was hot outside, it was very cool inside this room.

“Ezra’s assistant?”

“One and the same. He’s been kind enough to fly me down to come hang out with you over the next several weeks. Seems like we have a show to prepare for?”

I groaned inwardly. I didn’t need him taking over.

“Yes. I’m sorry. I didn’t know you were going to be here.”

“It’s okay. The only instructions I have are to assist you with whatever you need. It’s your show, so tell me what you need, and I’ll make it happen. I have a few friends who work in theater, and I was able to talk them out of some things. I hope you don’t mind.” She pointed to the clothing rack, and I moved to look at what she’d brought.

Corsets, lingerie, and other props lined the metal bar. It was more than enough to choose from.

“Also, I was able to figure out the speaker system thanks to Master Derek. So, if you need help with that, let me know.” She pointed to a table on the far wall where a laptop and a chair were set up. “I’ll mostly be over there working, but don’t be afraid to bug me if you find a reason to put me to work.”

“We have class first and then practice after. Which… you already know.” I scoffed and shook my head. I don’t know why she made me nervous.

“I do, but the reminder is nice. Also”—she nodded to the bin in the corner and what appeared to be a small concession area—“Ezra dropped off some things for you guys to have during rehearsal. The bin has fresh towels, the cooler has drinks, and the snacks are for whoever wants them.”

“I can’t believe he did all this.” I spoke the words more to myself than to Kelly, but she’d heard me.

---