Chapter 52: Action Movie Superstar
"Turn left, it's the villa just ahead." Following Shania Twain's directions from the passenger seat, Duke turned the steering wheel. The car drove onto a quiet, tree-lined avenue and slowly came to a stop in front of a small, teal villa.
"Here?" Duke asked, glancing at his passenger.
"This is the house my agent rented for me," Shania Twain said, unbuckling her seatbelt. "He thinks I should have a residence that matches my future status. The rent is absolutely terrifying. If my album doesn't sell well next year, I'll definitely have the banks chasing me for debt."
"The location is nice, and the security is good," Duke remarked casually. "It's far from the slums and black neighborhoods. Living here will be good for your future."
The villa was situated on the outskirts of Beverly Hills. Shania Twain's agent had clearly put some thought into renting the place. Despite the endless prosperity of the upscale neighborhoods in Beverly Hills, Santa Monica, and North Hollywood, one only needed to take a few laps around the slums and minority communities to realize this country was absolutely no paradise.
"Goodbye, Duke." Shania Twain opened her door and waved to him. "Thanks for driving me home."
Turning his head, Duke looked at the hot beauty preparing to get out. After a moment of hesitation, he asked tentatively, "Shania, aren't you going to invite me in for a cup of coffee?"
"Sorry, Duke." She stepped out of the car, turned to lean against the door, and smiled. "It's too late today. Maybe another time."
Duke shrugged nonchalantly. Just as he was about to start the car, Shania Twain suddenly paused, opened her handbag, and pulled out a card. Ducking back into the car, she slipped it into his hand.