Page 31 of Snapshot

I chuckle out loud.

Me

Sold.

Dex

What? Not yet. I have so many more suggestions.

Dex has been sending me all sorts of odd jobs since I told him I got fired. He toggles between being serious and helpful—like offering to take a look at my résumé—and then just trying to make me laugh. Today he’s being particularly playful, which matches my good mood. That’s how Dex and I are. Always in sync.

I’m a little surprised Dex hasn’t just offered me a job. Discover Dives isn’t lucrative enough to really make a living, but Dex mentioned that his family’s company is pretty big. Surely I qualify for something entry-level there. Perhaps he thinks I wouldn’t be interested in moving to Miami. That’d be correct. I want to stay close to my friends and family. Especially my dad. He needs me.

Not to mention, I still don’t know what Dex really does. We’ve always joked around and called it his “big boy job.” He’s rather secretive about it; just says it’s something with numbers. I once teasingly accused him of running the mafia and printing money. I mean…he didn’t outright deny it. Overall, Dex doesn’t talk much about home. Whenever someone brings up Miami, he gets this strange, clouded look in his eyes like he’s trying to detach. We don’t have to talk about it. I don’t like to upset him. And it’s not like there’s ever a lull between us. Dex could fill hours of conversation talking about scuba diving, beer, good food, and music.

Me

I’ll bite. What other jobs?

Dex

Professional sleeper. There’s a hotel in Finland that hires people to sleep in their beds and rate their rest quality. That’s a full-time job with benefits.

Me

Well, now I’m torn between that and panda cuddling.

Dex

Dog food taster.

Me

Hard pass.

Dex

Well, not so fast. Did I mention it’s all organic and grass-fed? And apparently, the company does an annual trade show in Cabo. All-expense paid.

I’m sure they’ll provide you with people snacks for the plane.

Me

I appreciate your cruel humor in my time of desperation.

Dex

Excuse me. I’m trying to help my friend and am taking this very seriously.

Me

Uh huh. And where are you finding all this random shit?

Dex

Definitely not Reddit.

I laugh out loud again, and when I peek up from my phone, I’m met by Alan’s narrowed eyes.

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