Vito: What’s wrong with the clothes we bought for you last year? They were the latest fashion.
Gracie: Do I look like I shop at Mico’s?
Benito: All stores have the same shit.
Me: I didn’t get you clothes.
Thankfully, I had Chloe to help me find the perfect gifts for Gracie this year. Without her, I would’ve ended up buying her a new robe or other bullshit she’d probably have no use for. My brothers are easy, but when it comes to Gracie, my mind goes blank.
Vito: You don’t count. You have Chloe to help.
Busted.
I glance up from my phone, watching Chloe as she chats with customers. She looks more alive than I’ve ever seen her. The store is filled with people, and that means money. She no longer seems worried about the future of the store, which is a relief.
Benito: I was going to get you perfume. Cool?
Gracie: What kind?
Benito: If I tell you, it won’t be a surprise.
Gracie: If it’s aerosol from a chain store, then it’s garbage.
Benito: Didn’t know you were so fancy.
Gracie: I’ve known you assholes my entire life, and all you can come up with are robes, pajamas, and crappy perfume.
Vito: You’re kind of a picky bitch, sis.
Benito: Too bad she’s not as picky with her men.
Gracie: Um, I’ve seen what you invite into your bed. I wouldn’t talk about my choices in lovers, B.
I bite my lip to stop myself from laughing and causing a scene inside the bookstore. Although it’s busy, it’s still too damn quiet.
Benito: They’re all beautiful creatures in their own way.
Vito: How about a Mico’s gift card?
Gracie: Don’t be a dumbass.
Vito: Me or him?
Gracie: Both of you.
Vito: What about Franco?
Gracie: I know Chloe has my back.
I cringe a little, even though I’m pretty sure Chloe nailed every gift for Gracie.
Benito: Isn’t it the thought that counts?
Gracie: Yeah, but I’m pretty sure Mico’s and robes require no thought.
She has a point, but we do put thought into her gifts. We have entire threads of text messages, trying to figure out what to get her, but always come up blank. It’s hard enough for one of us to come up with a solid idea, but for all three of us…it’s impossible.
Vito: I still don’t understand what the problem is with Mico’s.
