Pop: Chapter Thirteen

     We hurry back downstairs, so Todd can call Mitch on the landline.  This way, I can talk as well on the speakerphone.  I still can't believe I'm even thinking about this.

    Mitch picks up immediately, so Todd can start the proposal.  No, Mitch hasn't gotten any offers yet.  Yes, it is just within my price range, although I might have to dip into some funds to make sure everything clears. No, I won't be needing any of the fixtures.  Yes, we could come up with a deal for remodeling. Yes, there is extra parking in the rear. How did I never know that, or did I forget?

    Minor details are worked out, but nothing is finalized.  I make both of them clear on that point.  Nothing is finished until the contract is signed.  First, I'll have to tell Addie that I found a spot.  She was the one who suggested I should get office space, outside of the house, so she shouldn't be against me buying the building. If I get everything done quickly enough, it will be before the wedding anyway, so there shouldn't be any complaints.

    Next, I mention the need for inspectors.  While I'm sure the building is up to all codes and regulations, I would like some independent confirmation.  Besides, I need to know if there are any other secrets to this place I'm not aware of

    Finally, Mitch has to see if there are any conflicts with Downtown Comics about the purchase.  While they will own the business, Mitch still owns the building.  While the two are separate, they could still throw a wrench into the deal.  Those two guys have a history of playing loose with the rules.  That's one of the reasons why I never liked going there.

    It's a little after two by the time the call ends.  That was about the exact time I was planning on leaving anyway.  There had been no other fans for the signing since my foray upstairs. I bid Todd goodbye and hurry out so I can stay on schedule.

    Before I jog back to my car, I take a left and head down the block, taking another left at the first intersection. Sure enough, I see the municipal parking lot that had been just down the street.  I definitely don't remember this from college.  I had always parked at the strip mall and walked down to Pulse.  This lot was much closer.  I could just see the stairs leading up to the second floor from here, as well as the rear entrance beneath it.  Yeah, I never knew about that either.  It must open into the corner gaming room.  Never got to use that one, and the door might be the reason why.

    It takes me another two minutes to get to the strip mall.  I walk to the convenience store so I can validate my almost three hours of parking here.  Apparently, the place changed it format along with its name.  It was now upscale, organic, and healthy.  So, no chocolate bells.  On the other hand, I find my blueberry protein bars tucked away on the bottom shelf near the rear of the store.  I buy two boxes.  I will just have to come up with a better way of hiding them from Sam.

    My phone chirps just a I am reaching the Camaro, Dad's ringtone.

    "Hi, Dad.  Everything alright?"

    "No problems.  Just wanted to check in, now that we've crossed into Kentucky from Cincinnati."

    "Cincy?  Ohio?! What were you doing in Ohio?  You were planning on coming in from West Virginia."