Page 66 of Outspoken

“Brody.”

We shake hands.

There's a lull in our convo, so Dustin cuts right in with his reason for bringing me here. “Miguel needs a job,” he states, words cutting through my pride. “He just moved back to take care of his mom and he’s hard-up for cash. Your gym still looking for new trainers?”

Brody shrugs. “Think so.”

I try to look chill, try to act like it's no big deal that I'm unemployed and desperate for money to pay for my mom's needs, but all I taste is bitter acid rising from my stomach. Acid has been cycling inside me all week. Considering my mom’s condition, I’m more aware of the evils of acid reflux. I need to get this shit under control.

I had a good job in another state as a promoter for a car mod company, but Mom needs me, so I’m now officially a caregiver. I don't regret it, especially since Mom is thrilled to feed me again, but I'll feel more settled once I secure some funds for her.

Dustin pats my shoulder. “See? It's all good. You can be a personal trainer at the gym downtown.”

I try to lighten my mood by widening my smile—always stay positive, even when things look bleak. “Yeah, if only I knew how to be a trainer.”

Brody pulls out his phone. “Give me your number and I'll send you the address. Come by Monday. If they like you, they'll help you get certified. I'm transitioning to an independent contractor part-time with my own clients, so that's an option once you put in the hours.”

I never considered a job helping people exercise, but Mom always says there's a greater plan—life happens for a reason.

“It may not be your plan, mijo, but there's a greater one for all of us. Even my silly son who is desperate for love.”

I'm not sure of a greater plan, only the future I make for myself. Mom can have faith for both of us.

And finding love isn’t my focus right now—Mom is.

Brody and I exchange info. “Thanks, man,” I say, ignoring my damaged pride.

“Now that's out of the way,” Dustin says, business mode crushed beneath the more reckless parts of his personality, “time to get trashed. Brody, you—”

“Wait,” I cut in. “Trashed? I thought you were taking me to IHOP or something. I’m starving.”

Dustin shrugs, scrubbing a hand over the fade on his temples, then along the super short, curly waves on his head. “Since you’re out of the house, I thought we'd enjoy it. You don’t want to?”

I shove my hands into my jacket pockets as a chilly breeze hits.Not really.I was looking forward to a stack of blueberry pancakes before going home. Lupita is staying with Mom so I could get a breather and take my mind off my situation, but I don’t want to be out too late.

Before I can respond, Dustin turns to Brody. “You stopping by Elmwood later?”

That revealing corner of Brody's mouth twitches. “You talking about the party in that mansion with all the fucking palm trees?”

“Yup.”

Brody crosses his arms with a sigh. “I stay away from those, but if you're going, can you do me a favor?”

“Sure. What?” Dustin asks.

“My sister is supposedly there. If you see her, can you keep an eye on her? She hates when I get involved, but she's on a bender that has me worried. I don't trust the people she’s around. Don't want some asshole taking advantage when she's wasted, which she probably is by now.” He glances at me. “Family trouble.”

My abs tense. If we go to this party and make sure Brody’s sister is safe, that could give me an edge, encouraging him to put in a good word for me at the gym. I only have so much savings left. My siblings are helping, but Mom’s medical bills are getting higher. We’re also struggling to get her on state insurance. I also want to find us a house where she can be comfortable.

I need a job. But a party?Damn.I’mdefinitelynot in the mood for that chaos.

Dustin glances at me. “What do you think, man?”

I study Brody. He doesn’t look like a vengeful dude, but can I say no and still expect him to help me get a job?

“Hold on,” I tell them. Pulling out my phone, I walk away to make a call in private.

My call goes to voicemail, so I call again. Mom picks up this time.

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