The pickup truck came to a stop in front of the tastefully-landscaped suburban house. The truck bore the “Unlimited Partners” logo, and in smaller letters below that, read “home maintenance services”. Henry shut off the truck and stepped outside. He gazed at his cell phone, looking confused. “This isn’t one of our houses…what am I doing here?”
He walked up the stonework path, which wound its way between several healthy rose bushes, surrounded by a lush, well-kept bluegrass lawn. He stopped for a moment and glanced at his phone again. “Jessica McGranger?” Henry looked up, pondering. “Why does that sound so familiar?”
He approached the front door and knocked. It opened to reveal a piercing set of brown eyes, a lithe form covered in a simple sun dress, and the most man-eating expression he’d seen on a woman in some time.
“Remember me, Hank?” she opened.
Henry’s memories flooded back. “It’s you!” His face broke into a wide grin. “I can’t believe you found me.”
“It wasn’t easy.” She beckoned with her finger. “Won’t you come in?”
His eyes gleaming, he walked through the front door and shut it behind him.
Hank looked around the opulently-furnished front room. “You certainly look like you’ve done well for yourself.”
“The eviction was the best thing that ever happened to us,” Jessie related. “It really lit a fire under Dan’s butt. He has a much better job now.” She cocked her head coyly. “Looks like you’ve done well for yourself, too. No more headgear!”
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He felt the top of his head. “Yeah, those days are long gone. I’ve paid my debt to society, and am now a trusted member of the work force.”
“I knew you had it in you.” Their eyes locked; Henry felt a lump in his throat.
“So…what brings me here today, ma’am? Do you need some repairs done?”
Her face became pouty. “Yes. My plumbing is all backed up.” She threw her arms around his shoulders. “It could stand a really thorough reaming.”
Hank put his hands around her hips. “I take it you don’t mean your house’s plumbing.” She let out a giggle.
“I’ve managed to schedule an hour of your time,” Jessie purred. “I hope that’s enough.”
Hank forced himself to make the most serious expression he could bear to muster. “You really shouldn’t be doing this. You’re a married woman, and your husband clearly cares for you. And I’m finally completely legit.”
She drew him closer and stared into his eyes. “Just one more hustle…then I’ll go straight. I promise!”
He broke out in spirited laughter; she joined him. He playfully flicked the tip of her nose. “I see what you did there.”
“And I’m sure I can promise you a five-star rating, and a glowing review.”
Hank took a deep breath, and exhaled fully. “Oh, you talked me into it!”
She dragged him into the master bedroom; he closed the door behind them.