Page 10 of The Other Side

A light scoff escapes me. “You could say that.”

“How long have you been working with him?”

I take another sip of my coffee before setting it down. “That’s the fucking kicker. I haven’t even started working with him yet.”

“Damn,” he responds. “That sucks, bro. Sorry.”

“Yeah,” I breathe, skating a hand over my head. “I’m just gonna get this over with.”

“Have fun,” Sean tosses before exiting the kitchen.

I pinch the bridge of my nose between two fingers, mentally preparing myself to engage with this entitled prick. He’s the type of person I’ve always steered clear of. The kind of guy I’d never seek out to be friends with. I can only imagine the mental torture he’s going to inflict on me in the upcoming months. And as much as I want to impress my boss, this fucking blows.

It’s as simple as that.

My thumb taps the phone screen, only for my chin to angle toward the recessed lights of the ceiling. A couple rings vibrate against my ear, and then Jesse’s voice pierces through.

“Jesse Miller.”

“Hi, Jesse, it’s Brant Beckett from Nexis Architecture,” I say. “I’m just returning your call.”

“Yes,” he responds. “I was able to take a look at your portfolio last night and was actually really impressed.”

I’ll ignore the “actually” part.

“I’m really glad to hear that. Thank you.”

“I’d like to meet on Thursday around two o’clock,” Jesse states.

“Yes, I left my schedule open for you in case,” I reply.

“Great,” he agrees. “I’m going to have a handful of questions, so I expect to gain more information than what I already know. I expect you to come prepared with answers, as my time is really valuable.”

Is this project really worth it?

“I promise to answer the necessary questions to get this process started and running smoothly. I understand wanting to get a project done as quickly as possible, but we want to make sure the project is done efficiently and with quality work,” I explain.

“I hear that, Brant. But I also want to make sure we can stick to a timeline that works for me. After all, I am the one paying you guys.”

“Of course. We can draw up a general timeline when we meet. Should you feel any adjustments need to be made, I can always get in touch with the contractors and interior designers.”

“Okay, that’s good for me. I’ll see you on Thursday,” Jesse says.

“Yes, I’m looking forward to it.”

Am I, though?

Chapter 4

Brant

I briefly consider diving in front of the Escalade strolling by. Jesse’s a prick, but he’d be backed into a corner if I needed medical attention.

Nah, too messy.

Ah, fuck me.

My boots hit the asphalt before I swing the door of my Tacoma shut. I peek over to the house as I round the grill of my pickup. I eye the rich and warm tones of the cedar siding. Large, sleek windows complement the wood, enhancing the charm that’s already affected by the lush greenery and tall trees.