Page 12 of Bronco

I love my mom, and with my dad not in the picture growing up, I didn’t have a lot of male influence. My dad’s family was a nightmare, so we moved away. I have one brother, Ansel, who lives in Mississippi near my mom. I often get shit over my real name, Torin, but I’m named after a bull, which is also my star sign, Taurus. Mom is a hippie from way back, but I don’t hold that against her. She raised us with all the love and affection she possibly could, and it wasn’t easy with two boys only a year apart. Ansel is the older one; he and I couldn’t be more like chalk and cheese if we tried. He works for an insurance company and has settled down with a wife and a new baby. I don’t get to see them as much as I’d like, but we’re on good terms. My mom, however? She’s always popping by unannounced to check up on me and bring me food. That would be cool if the food she made was edible. Since going vegan a few years ago and experimenting with things like mung beans and lentils, I’ve gotta suck it up and eat what she makes so I don’t upset her. I just make sure I get my protein in after she’s left the state.

When I finally manage to get Cara out of the shop, after slipping me her number even though it’s already on her file, I sigh with relief. I’m glad she’s happy and it makes me feel goodknowing there’s one less horrible tattoo in the world. There’ll always be cover ups until the day is long, that’s the unfortunate thing in this business, but there’s no way you can’t feel good about what she just walked out with and I take pride in that.

My phone buzzes in my pocket and I smile when I see Amber’s name pop up.

AJ

How’s it hanging?

Me

9 inches last time I checked

AJ

9 inches?

Me

You asked

AJ

Stupid me

Me

What’s up?

AJ

My date has the flu

I rub my chin.Good.I haven’t heard better news all day because her going out on a date with her best friend’s fucking brother’s best friend, just spells a happily ever after. Not that I don’t want that for her, I do, but I don’t trust dudes. Especially ones named Ben. It’s too squeaky clean, and when something sounds too good to be true, it usually is. I know what dudes arelike and Amber is the kind of girl who lands herself into trouble before she can even blink.

Me

What a shame

AJ

I can just hear the sarcasm in that text

Me

Would I do such a thing?

AJ

Yes, you would. Before I cancel the babysitting, I wondered if you’d like to go to the game with me?

Remembering the pact I suggested, not that she agreed to it, I smile. Sitting back in the chair behind the desk, I rub my chin. Hanging out with Amber this weekend sounds great. I’m not gonna pass that opportunity up.

Me

I like how I’m your second choice

AJ

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