“Brunch?” I arch an eyebrow. “You mean you want to serve her food from a can, or what we’ve been taking from her church?”
“Of course not. We can buy real food, because you have a job now.”
I arch a brow. For all the day’s moments I spent close to giving up, wondering how on earth I landed myself in this situation, only to push through from sheer determination and stubbornness, I forgot all about the reward portion of my hard work.The money.
“I made two hundred dollars today in tips alone, Ingrid.”
Her mouth falls open. “How come I never get tips like that?”
“Because you never smile.”
She scowls. “Whatever. I’ll go to the store in the morning. And I’m working this weekend, but invite her over for brunch next week. I’ll cook. When is her next day off?”
“Tuesday,” I say, and then realize what she just said. “Wait…you’regoing to cook?”
She sticks her tongue out at me. “I’ve been learning new recipes. Haven’t you seen me watching the cooking channel? I just made spaghetti for the first time.”
I scratch my head and then feel a foreign substance beneath my nails. Probably nail grinds or dog dander. My stomach churns. “Fine, then. I’m going to shower.”
As I climb the stairs to get to the bathroom, I hear Ingrid whisper to herself, “Simplygotto meet this woman.”
But I hardly register it, because excitement stirs in my stomach.
With this kind of money, I can finally get back into a gym to train.
I turn on the shower. While I’m waiting for the water to heat up, I send a text to my agent, Max.
Me
Any sponsors bite yet?
Max
Sorry, Bash.
Me
None? Why?
Max
It’s all still the same. You’re unproven in your promotion and your flashy debut wasn’t enough. Sponsors want consistency. Discipline. Proof you’ll stick around and perform.
Me
But I’m an undefeated street fighter.
Max
Yeah, but they don’t have that proof. And that’s kind of a running joke in Munera. Every street fighter claims he’s undefeated.
Me
But…I went viral online
Max
You’re one of many who have gone viral, and some fizzle out quickly. Sponsors just want to make sure you’re legit before they invest. But don’t worry. They’ll come eventually.
