Gator… wait, can I call you Gator? It feels right. Gator, are you looking a gift guru in the mouth?
It wasn’t a real nickname, but it still gave her a little jolt. She’d never had one before. She’d always been Grace. To everyone. And while Gator made her sound like a large man with questionable hygiene habits who ran an airboat business, it gave her a stupid thrill anyway.
GoGatorsESQ
I have to make sure my coin to cross the river is well spent. We only get one.
Scissorsaurus
I thought we were bartering. You can bring snacks. What goes well with the afterlife? I’m thinking olives.
Laughing, Grace almost said that she’d already consumed her contribution at happy hour. But Alix messaged again.
Scissorsaurus
How about some testimonials? Would that help us ease into a circle of trust?
GoGatorsESQ
You’ve got Yelp reviews?
Scissorsaurus
lol yeah. 10/10 would drown my sorrows with her again.
GoGatorsESQ
You’re very good at avoiding direct questions.
Scissorsaurus
Damn, Gator. Are you a CIA agent?
GoGatorsESQ
You know I couldn’t tell you if I was.
Scissorsaurus
I guess I should answer before you put me in handcuffs huh? My expertise comes the only way it can. Firsthand experience. A lot of it.
There was something about the shift in tone. Even over text. Even without knowing Alix, that made Grace drop her smile. There was truth in that sentiment. A truth that made Grace’s constantly sore stomach heave.
GoGatorsESQ
And what have you learned from so many unfortunate experiences?
Scissorsaurus
That even if it comes with a crash, the high is always a little bit worth it.
Rolling onto her back, Grace was wide awake. She knew it was late. Knew she’d pay for this when her alarm went off at five in the morning. But she couldn’t stop herself.
GoGatorsESQ
Do you really believe that?
It was the first time Alix’s response hadn’t been instantaneous. Had Grace been too pushy? Had her question come off rude rather than eager for the hope this stranger offered?
