Still struggling to find someone? Drew says to blame Brett—something about repercussions of the Burns' Effect?
"The Burns' Effect?" Levi echoes. "Nope... Don't even want to know."
Another text comes in before I can agree. I read it silently.
Brooke
But yeah, Tess! She just got fired, actually. I'm sure she'd be thrilled to interview!
"Awesome," I groan.
"What?"
"Apparently she just got fired—great sign."
Sammy's bowl drops to the floor with a clang that echoes off the walls and makes my badass little brother jump out of his skin. He collects himself and purses his lips. "Well, she can't be worse than SoleyFans-Erica."
"Oh my God," I shudder. "Please don't remind me." I reread Brooke's message, then type my reply.
Cool. Can you see if she can come Thursday at 1:00?
"Are you still okay with me bringing Ruthie over earlier Thursday so I can finish these before I leave for this series?"
"Of course," Levi answers. "Alex is looking forward to their girls' weekend. I'm bringing Coop with me. Are you sure you're okay tackling them alone? You know I'd be here if we weren't away."
I nod. "Our game's at 7:00 so I'm just gonna do them during the day, then head out for the trip. It'll only be these last two and Brooke's friend if she can make it."
"Okay," he says, clapping me on the shoulder. "I'd say go easy on 'em, but also, only the best for my niece. Am I right?"
"Exactly."
Levi smiles, then grabs his keys from the counter. "Alright, I'm out of here. Good luck, big brother."
"Thanks, man. I'll keep you posted."
With that, Levi heads for the door, and as it clicks shut, my phone buzzes in my hand.
Brooke
She said she'll be there!
I sigh loudly, somehow relieved by even the possibility of success.
Thanks, Brooke.
She responds immediately.
Brooke
No problem, Big Monte!
My face scrunches up at the nickname as the next text comes through.
Brooke
Nope, that felt wrong. Sorry about that. You got it, Liam! See ya at practice!
I laugh and double-tap the text to mark it with a thumbs up before sliding my phone back onto the counter. "Alright, Sammy," I say, walking over to the container of dog food. He's supposed to be Ruthie's responsibility, yet somehow, I'm always the one he throws his bowl at. "Let's hope she's the one."
