Quoted By:
It pains you to do it. Nearly <span class="mu-i">KILLS</span> you! But despite your differences, Rodney did good tonight–and the fact that he still fondly remembers how you used to hang out reminds you of all the times you pulled his ass outta the fire!
He <span class="mu-i">needs</span> you now. Even if it hurts to do it.
C’mon, Rod, you mutter as you nudge his back with your elbow, answer the lady! He knows what to say!
“I do? Err, yea, I <span class="mu-i">DO!</span>” Your old pal sputters as the gears in his head slide back into place! “Yea, Viv! Me an’ Diesel? Thicker n’ thieves! We just… we just pal around a bit too hard sometimes, y’know?”
You approve!
Placing an arm around your shoulder, the sunglasses-wearing simpleton leans over to you and whispers “<span class="mu-i">thanks, bro</span>” into your ear!
“<span class="mu-i">AND</span> dis guy’s gonna be my coworker again! Said he’d try to get me my old job at <span class="mu-s">PIZZA MIND</span> back!”
You <span class="mu-s">DON’T</span> approve!
“AND,” adds Rodney with confidence returning to his voice, “I uh… I gotta confess: I always looked up to dis’ maniac like he was my big brother! An’ you know how it is with siblings–gotta fight now and then!”
“Yep!” Giggles Vivian, clearly pleased to see you two on good terms (and also pretty buzzed), “My brothers are <span class="mu-i">always</span> going at it… but by the time dad’s boat rolls into port they’re laughing about it! Like clockwork, dudes!”
Rodney nods in understanding, but you’re having a little trouble–what uh… what do her brothers do again?
“Oh yea, I told Rod, but didn’t get to tell ya!” Smiles the chef as she takes another hearty swig from her cup! “They run the fishing boat with my pops! Buncha’ sailors…. You know how it is! Really mean when you look at ‘em, but they’re really sweet once you get to know ‘em!”
Her gaze turns softer behind her shades. “... kinda like you guys!”
“Shucks…” you and Rodney stammer as your cheeks grow red!
Polishing off her drink, Vivian lets loose an exultant sigh as she three-pointers the cup into a wastebasket across the gym!
… next to the <span class="mu-s">SAUNA…</span>
>CONTD.
