Page 18 of Pressure

“Isn't it? That sweet college boy that we talk to each day drew it for us. He said we could look at it when we are in Scottsdale and miss the place.”

“What college boy?” I asked.

“His name is Cash, and he’s staying at one of the cabins with his friends for the summer,” Trudy said.

“I think I know who you’re talking about.” I handed her back the drawing. “He’s artistically talented.”

“Frank said we can get a frame for it and put it on the wall in our sunroom.”

I smiled, and as I headed toward the door, I added, “It sounds like a fantastic idea. Drive carefully, and please text me when you stop for the evening.”

“Will do. Thank you, Joel,” Frank said as he waved from the porch.

As soon as I got into my SUV, I opened my text string with Tristen.

Joel: Cash is going to help us take care of the rental units.

As soon as it was sent, I opened up my email and retrieved Cash’s resume. I copied his mobile phone number and pasted it into a new text message and instantly began to type while I ignored the dings from Tristen’s texts.

Joel: Good morning, Cash, this is Joel. Tristen and I have a job offer for you and would like to discuss it tonight over dinner. Please let me know if you’re still interested in a job.

I started my car and put on my seat belt. Before I backed away from Frank and Trudy’s, Cash’s text came over.Of course he’s interested.

Cash: Yes, I’m interested. I thought you may have filled the position already.

Joel: We did fill the position you applied for. However, we have another one that you may be interested in.

Cash: Yes! I’m interested in whatever you have. Anything.

A little more desperate than I thought he was, but perhaps he could shed some light on the matter over dinner.

Joel: Perfect. Please come to the resort at 6:00 pm. Tristen and I will discuss the position with you then.

Cash: Thank you! See you tonight.

I set the phone on the charging tray and reversed the SUV. Before I turned onto the main road, I pressed the phone button on the steering wheel to answer the incoming call from Tristen.

“I didn’t know we were looking for help with the rental units,” Tristen began.

“We weren’t, until this morning.”

“Do you think you could have included me in that discussion?”

“No. I was completely capable of making that decision myself.”

“What?”

“While I was at Trudy and Frank’s getting the keys, they showed me an incredible drawing of their patio that Cash drew.” I paused while I pulled onto the main road and headed back to the resort. “Did you know Cash talked to Trudy and Frank every day?”

“No. But, do you think he’d even want to do that?”

“I do.”

“Should we call him and arrange a meeting?”

“It’s already arranged. 6:00 tonight at the resort.”

“Sometimes your level of obsession is scary as fuck.”