“You’re the last person I need to deal with right now,” Zachary said, feeling a sense of relief after confronting Duncan.
“Just tell me what’s on your mind quickly. If not, please don’t interrupt my break.” Everyone knew he preferred to relax after lunch.
“It’s nothing major. I passed by your sister-in-law’s breakfast diner on my way to work. I stopped in to visit and give Sonny a pinwheel, and your nana was there,” he explained.
“Your sister-in-law gave me the rent money in cash, but when I saw your nana, I felt guilty. Do you think I offended her in some way?”
“Only God knows what you did. I’m not your shadow; I don’t follow you around to know your every move.”
Duncan was fixating on trivial matters. Was he really boasting about collecting rent? Zachary rented out commercial spaces too, and his annual rental income far exceeded Duncan’s.
After a moment of silence, Duncan responded, “Man, you’re all worked up. I think you’re missing something.”
“We’ll see how happy you are when I interrupt your private time with your girl.”
“My woman hasn’t been born yet. I may never find someone. You and Josh have found your special someone, so we’re in different worlds now. I’m cutting ties with both of you.”
It was meant as a joke.
“By the way, did you hear that the Zimmers went bankrupt? Their house is on the market to pay off debts. Are you interested in buying it?”
“I’d prefer to invest in new developments. The Zimmers might have a large villa, but it’s used.”
Duncan smiled and said, “The Zimmers are neighbors with the Stones. By the Stones, I mean your wife’s aunt. If you bought the place, you could renovate it completely. It could be a lovely marital home and provide easy access for your wife to her aunt’s house.”
“I…
“I’m sure your wife will be delighted.”
Zachary was left speechless.
The Zimmers once experienced fame and fortune while living next to the Stone family. Unfortunately, the descendants of the Zimmers have struggled to maintain the family business. Currently, the Zimmers’ business is in the red, and they need to sell their house to escape debt.