“How do you feel about this?” Francine asks.
The excitement in her tone is undeniable, and I feel like an asshole that I’m not equally jacked about the developments.
“It’s a lot to take in,” I say, sounding as happy as I can. “Thank you for going to battle for me.”
“Any time, any place. You know how much I think of you, Gianna. But I do need to get going because I have a stack of things to take care of before I go home. I’ll recap all of this in an email, but give me a few hours to get it all together. As you said, it’s a lot to take in.”
“No rush. Thank you again.”
“Of course. Talk soon.”
“Goodbye.”
Tears well up in my eyes as I try to focus on the positives in this because there are many. This could be bigger than the Thursday slot.This might be a massive opportunity.
My parents would’ve loved that for me.
But as I look around at my house, my paint, and my buttons, I can’t ignore the pain in my chest.How much will I have to give up to be a success? And if I don’t, what will that cost Francine?
I open my text app without thinking, and my thumbs fly over the keys. There is only one place that I want to be—one place where I know I’ll feel like everything will be okay.
Me: Bored?
Drake texts me back immediately.
Drake: Just got home from playing basketball with Jory.
Me: What I’m hearing is that you’re about to be wet and naked.
Drake: What I heard is you saying wet and naked, and now I need you to come over.
Me: It took you long enough to say that.
Drake: I didn’t know I had to. I thought it was implied that I want you here whenever you want to be here … and when you don’t, too.
I re-read his words and feel the stress of Canoodle decisions float away. It’s Drake’s superpower, among other things.
Me: I’m on my way.
Drake: Have you eaten?
Me: No.
Drake: Any requests besides yourself?
I laugh.
Me: Pizza?
Drake: It’ll be here when you get here.
Me: You’re the best.
Drake: Only for you.
I dumpmy purse on the couch, fish out my keys and wallet, and head to the door.
CHAPTER
