Page 59 of Elevator Pitch

He is really determined about that nickname.

This reminds me of the deal I made with my mama. She is going tolovethis.

Whenever you find out just how good of a neighbor he is, give me a call and say ‘pinochle.’ Repeat it three times if he’s good andonce if he’s not.

She’s at work right now, but I call anyway, and it goes to voicemail. I’m holding in my giggles at how ridiculous this is while waiting for the beep.

I say, “pinochle, pinochle, pinochle,” and hang up.

25

teatime

Selah

Manhattan, NY | January 2, 2024

Me

TEATIME!!!

Chess

What’s the temperature?

Daya responds with eye emojis.

Audrey responds with a tea-sipping GIF.

Daya

Does this have anything to do with the HOT neighbor?

Chess

Wait. How HOT is this neighbor?

Audrey

One question at a time!

I’m on the edge of my seat here!

Me

Yes.

The temperature is scalding.

Daya

Dios Mio!

Do we need to pull up?

Me

Yes, Please!