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It’s time for me to do the same. Everyone looks at me and thinks I have a great life.
I finally have a chance to make that as true on the outside as it appears.
My mother is in remission and is back home.
I’m finally free of Nanette.
I have money and I’m about to start filming my television show.
So what if I don’t have Apollo? I didn’t need her to be happy.
I’ve busted my ass. I’ve sacrificed.
I’m going to enjoy it.
Year 4
Graham
“Mr. Davis, how are you feeling? You out celebrating?” Dean asks when he answers the phone.
“It’s only three o’clock. I’m saving that for later. Any progress on my beard?”
“You know, you’re the only client I’ve ever had who needs a beard to avoid having to date anyone at all. Most beards—”
“I know. Thanks for humoring me.” He’s said this about a thousand times.
“Okay, okay. I think it would be helpful for you to be in a stable relationship if we’re going to go after the big money endorsements. This shoe deal is an exception because the people who buy them don’t care whether or not you’re fucking everyone in town. They care if you’re the best in the sport. But if we want to go bigger, then yes, I think you need a girlfriend. I just want to say one more time that I think you’d be better off dating someone for real than this. It’s not a permanent solution, and when you eventually break up, no matter how amicable the breakup is, there will be fans who take sides. That means negative reporting, digging into your relationships. Your friends will have to buy into it. Your mother, too. Are you sure?”
“Yes,” is all I say.
“Okay, well then, I’ve got someone. She’s agreed to all of our terms and is willing to move in if necessary. I’m e-mailing over her details including her picture and bio. She’s cute. Look it over and then let me know if you’re good with me revealing your identity.”
“She won’t need to move in. I don’t care if she’s cute. What’s her name?”
“Uhhh … hold on.” I hear his keys clacking.
“Wow, not memorable enough for you to even remember her name?” I ask him dryly.
“Do you know how many women answered the agency’s callout? I’ve spent the last three days talking to the eighty women they sent over. I did it myself, Graham. Listened to them tell me why they were willing to agree to be a beard for someone they didn’t know. This chick was the only one who had a reason that wasn’t money.”
“What was that?”
“She needs a beard, too. And when I asked her what her favorite show was, she said yours. Figured that at least there would be no chance of her falling in love with you or being disappointed in who you were.”
“As if anyone would be disappointed when they found out who I am,” I joke, relief loosening some of the anxiety and doubt I had over this plan.
“Listen, I have to take this call. I’ve sent over her file. Take a look at it and then let me know. If you’re good, we’ll start with her and then get the other three lined up.”
“Cool, tell Milly I said hi.” He laughs but doesn’t even try to deny it.
“I’m not telling her you said anything. Every time I mention your name, she spends ten minutes talking about your hair and eyes.”
“Bye, Dean,” I say with a laugh.
“Congrats, speak soon.”
And then he disconnects.
