Page 31 of Brooke
“What the hell is that?” Madison asked, leaning over Dean’s shoulder. “It sounds like some type of E. coli the health inspectors test for.”
“It’s an Archimedean solid,” Axel explained, his gaze still intent on her visual board. “One of the most complex geometric shapes in the world. Also, one of the most layered and beautiful.”
Inside Brooke, a wild cheering had begun, filled withExactlyandYesand other cries. “That’s how I see Sawyer.”
“Brooke, it might be the nicest compliment I’ve ever had.” Their eyes met and held. “Thanks.”
Her throat closed up. “You’re welcome, Sawyer. Anyone upset about a color or shape? Madison?”
She lifted her head quickly, almost as if she worried she’d been caught studying it too seriously. “No, I’m good being red, but you’ll have to explain the triangle.”
“It’s the strongest shape in geometry,” Axel broke in quickly, as if excited. “Sorry, Brooke?—”
“No, please.” She clenched her hands at her sides, sensing a powerful moment coming. “Continue.”
“Because the weight is evenly distributed on three sides, it cannot break,” Axel said in his deep, even voice. “It is the most resilient of shapes.”
Kyle’s stunned expression might have had her cheering, because it took a lot to impress him, but Axel’s immediate understanding of her reasoning had rendered her temporarily mute with shock.
“I’m good with it.” Madison cracked her knuckles. “Only don’t put a triangle in my kitchen.”
Axel laughed before turning to Thea. “And what do you think of Brooke’s rendering of you?”
She tapped a finger to her mouth. “Well, I love pink. And I think the crescent is perfect since I make croissants.”
“Actually, I think Brooke might have been inspired by the spiritual meaning of the crescent.” He turned to look at her. “Am I right?”
Brooke nodded slowly. “Yes, it represents the promise of brighter days, and that’s how we all feel with you, Thea.”
Tears immediately popped into her friend’s eyes, which had Brooke feeling an answering burn. God, this wasn’t professional, but seeing people’s reactions was tugging hard at her heart. So was Axel’s deep understanding of her choices.
“I can’t wait to tell Jean Luc,” Thea said, brushing aside a tear. “I’m going to remember that every time I make a croissant. Thanks, Brooke.”
She waved a hand because her throat was full of emotion.
“That leaves Kyle,” Sawyer said, a fanciful smile playing across his face. “The gold isn’t a shock, but I do love the choice of the arc for him.”
Kyle’s brows were knitted. “Indiana Jones works.”
“She doesn’t mean that arc, I don’t think,” Axel added, his glance seeking hers for confirmation, which she gave with a firm nod. “The arc is one of the most powerful shapes in geometry. It symbolizes strength and stability. It’s a sign for leaders.”
Brooke watched a ripple of shock flash over Kyle’s face before Dean clapped him on the back. “Well, she’s got you. Nice job, Brooke.”
“Yeah,” Madison said in a quiet undertone, still looking between Kyle and the tablet, a flash of vulnerability in her eyes.
Then Brooke realized why.
Kyle was looking directly at Madison, as if needing an anchor in this moment of revelation.
“Where’s your stuff, Brooke?” Dean asked, pointing to the tablet.
“I…didn’t do one for me.” She crossed her arms tightly over her blouse. “It’s a little weird.”
“Axel,” Dean began, putting his hand on the bigger man’s shoulder in a brotherly fashion. “What would you pick for our Brooke here?”
Her insides flip-flopped. “He doesn’t need to?—”
“Let me see.” Axel settled back, giving her his full attention. “I would pick apricot—something Sawyer already uncovered about her. It’s a powerful but also soft color in the orange spectrum. As for a shape, I would say she’s a spiral. Not exactly geometric, per se, but certainly an important element in sacred geometry.”
