Page 20 of Clean Out of Luck

I adjust the gears on my bike and pedal a little faster. My legs are burning. I round the corner, nearly colliding with a fire hydrant. I catch myself with my foot and right the bike just before I crash. That could’ve been bad.

I sigh as I look up and see The Serendipity ahead. It’s a relief to see home. There’s something magical about going home to the place I’ve dreamed of living in since I was a little girl. Heading towards The Serendipity feels like I’m getting a nice warm hug from a good friend. It’s a safe place for me. And it’s so nice to feel like I belong somewhere. For the first time in a lot of years, I feel at home in a place.

When I reach the building, I park my bike on the rack near the front staircase. I chain the bike up, bringing my helmet with me as I climb the stairs. I fumble for my keys and unlock the front door, stepping inside.

Steve, the building manager, is standing in the entryway to the parlor, talking on the phone. It’s really late for him to still be working. Poor guy. “Yes, I know the door creaks,” he says tightly. “The whole building creaks!”

Not exactly true, but it’s past regular working hours, which means Steve has probably already dealt with a lot of calls from tenants about issues that need to be addressed. He’s a good manager. He’s on top of it but does seem to get overwhelmed fairly easily. He nods in my direction as I walk by to head to the basement stairs.

“Good night, Steve!” I say.

He gives me a frazzled smile, and I disappear down thestairs. At least I’m not the only one having a bad night. Maybe solidarity.

I head downstairs, unlock my apartment, and slip inside. I leave my bike helmet hanging on the hook by the door, then walk into the bathroom and fill the bathtub with half a bottle of soap so it’s nice and bubbly. Before I grab my book, I pick up my phone and text Wade.

SCARLETT

I can’t believe you crashed my date tonight. What were you thinking?

Before I even have a chance to set my phone on the bathroom counter and get undressed, Wade texts back.

WADE

I was worried about you.

SCARLETT

I worry about my parents, but it doesn’t mean I’m going to show up on their doorstep when they least expect it.

WADE

I just remember some shady things about Allen in high school.

SCARLETT

You mean the fact that he always tried to hustle people out of their money? Well, guess what? He’s still doing it. And I am a big girl. I can take care of myself. I’m not going to invest my money into someone’s scheme, and I know a schmoozer when I see one.

WADE

I’m sorry if I hurt your feelings.

Oh. Well, that’s actually rather sweet of him. It changes things if he’s going to apologize—but then he texts again.

WADE

But I would do it again if it meant keeping you safe.

SCARLETT

Go pound sand, Wade. This is not your responsibility. I am not your responsibility.

WADE

You’re my best friend’s little sister. Of course you’re my responsibility.

I text back a single emoji that encompasses my current mood. It’s one I would never send my mother. Maybe my brother. It’s the angry face that looks like he’s swearing.

I set my phone down after I turn it on silent, grab my book, and climb into the bath. I’m going to block out anything more that Wade has to say.

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