Page 75 of Burnout
Avery
I don’t look like that.
Me
You do. It’s the same look you get on your face when Ken doll speaks.
I expect her to deny it.
Avery
I hate doing interviews.
Interesting.
Me
Why?
She doesn’t strike me as someone who would get nervous talking to people, especially about gymnastics.
Avery
It’s always the same questions. “How’s your knee?” “Are you going to be ready to compete at the start of the season?” “Will this season be better than last?” And it’s not just what they ask, but what they don’t ask. Everyone wants to know if the Olympics was a fluke or if I can compete at that level all the time.
The paragraph of text surprises me. I read over it a couple of times. I didn’t expect her to answer so honestly, but I read the genuine fear in her words. She wants to prove herself. I get that.
Me
Those interview questions are bullshit, so give them a bullshit answer. “My knee has never been better.” “I’m ready now. I can’t wait to compete.” “I’m in the best shape of my life.”
Avery
Lie?
Me
Eh. A stretch of confidence. You’re manifesting that shit.
Avery
Is that what you do in interviews?
Me
No. I usually say dumb shit I regret.
Avery
Like that your teammate should go back to the amateurs?
I laugh then wince at the thought of her watching that clip. I said that seconds before I shoved Link.
Me
Now who is stalking who? I’m flattered.
Avery
