With one click, you can have them delivered right to your door. But ever since the dawn of Amazon and eBay, you don’t need to go out of your way to find weird, cultish knickknacks. People used to make our store a road trip destination. Howard got married in the seventies, and at one time was widely popular because we specialize not only in gag gifts but in bizarre curiosities. “The store’s doing fine,” I say, which is a big fat lie. Naomi doesn’t need a job.”Īnger steams off me like ultraviolet rays. Zach raises two eyebrows at me, like we’re sharing a private joke Nicholas isn’t in on, then says to him, “You’re aware that your girlfriend works at the same place I do, right? If it closes, we’re not the only ones out of a job.” “When you’re ready, I know a guy at the temp agency who can help you.” Your store doesn’t get more than, what, three customers a day? You’ve got to be hemorrhaging money.” He flashes the same disingenuous smile that Zach has been giving him all evening. Having no real job security would put anyone on edge. Your turn.”īrandy’s hand trembles as she rolls the die, and Nicholas is all finished deciding what vulgar thing he wants to say to Zach. “I’m getting along with everybody just fine. Zach pushes her back into her seat with two fingers on her shoulder. Everyone have everything they need?” She half rises from her chair.

“Does anyone want more pizza rolls? I have cupcakes, too. “Can you try to get along with everybody?” Brandy implores him. “Zach,” I belatedly warn through gnashed teeth. She’s so sweet and bubbly that I doubt she’s ever seriously argued with anyone in her life, and people not getting along is the worst thing that can happen right in front of her.

You Deserve Each Other by Sarah Hogle