Page 93 of Unspoken Rules

“Yup,” I mutter.

“Hi, Mr. Montgomery. This is Marie Harris from Flashfire.”

I jolt upright in bed. I blink rapidly and run a hand down my face.

“Oh, hi. Good morning.”

“Sorry to bother you on a Saturday morning. My colleague was out yesterday, and I did not have time to make all the necessary calls. I’m reaching out about your interview from the other day. Did you have any questions or concerns you wanted to bring up?”

“Ah, no. Nothing that comes to mind.” I get to my feet, walking back and forth to help wake myself up so I don’t sound like a zombie.

“Wonderful. Philip and Tracy, who did your interview, loved you and think you’d be perfect for the job. So I’m calling to offer it to you.”

I stop moving. “You’re offering me the job?”

“Yes, sir. I’ve written up the proposal and will email it to you. I just like to give a heads up so you are aware. Email is difficult these days, and we’d hate for you to miss it because it went into your spam folder.”

“A proposal for the job?” I ask, not sure I heard that right.

“Yes, sir.” She pauses for a moment, then says, “I’m sorry. Is this a bad time?”

“No, not at all. I’m just thrilled, is all. Thank you so much. I will keep an eye out for the proposal.”

“Spectacular. Hope to hear from you soon.”

“Thank you.”

She ends the call and I stare at my phone.

I really got the job?

I got the job!

A grin spreads across my face, and I pump my fist into the air, even though my vision is still blurry. I was in a deep sleep and have no idea what my name is right now. Doesn’t matter though. I got the job!

But then everything around me comes into focus and I realize I have no one to call. No one to be excited with. There isn’t a single person I can call to share this good news with.

That’s not entirely true.

I pull up my contacts and find Mila’s name, only to see she’s already texted me. There’s also another text from Troy, letting me know he’ll offer me the apprenticeship if I want it. I ignore that for now and focus on my friend.

Mila: How are you? Is everything okay? Did Chris make it home safe?

The text was from five thirty this morning, which is normal for her.

Me: Big blow out fight. He went to his mother’s house. Probably for the best.

Me: Great news though! I got the job!

Mila: YOU GOT THE JOB!

Mila: Congratulations, Bryson. That’s amazing!

Mila: When do you start?

Me: Not sure yet. I’m waiting on the proposal. How fancy is that?

Mila: Lol. Well, we’re adults now. With degrees. We get fancy stuff.

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