ZOE; 12TH FEBRUARY 20....
I can't believe this is my life. One day I'm on top, the next I'm scraping the bottom of the barrel. Penniless and single, a delightful combo. I mean, I'm gorgeous, a honey dripping with potential. What man wouldn't want to be on my arm? Then again, most of them are idiots.
Jobless and heartbroken, yeah, but I'm too stubborn to stay down. Ready for a phoenix moment. For now, I'm sprawled on Tasha's sofa, staring at the generic popcorn ceiling. Maybe if I stare long enough, a job offer will materialize.
Tasha storms in, her face a mask of exasperation. "Bitch," she yells, "you better get your ass out there and find a job. I am so over playing chef and maid for you. My charity only stretches so far."
I roll my eyes, not bothering to sit up. "Oh, I don't know, where could I possibly find a job, Tash? I tried, remember? Multiple times. And failed spectacularly. So, hmm, I gave up. Officially embracing the art of self-pity."
"Don't give me that fake-ass bullshit. Zoe, if you don't have a job by the end of this week, you're out. Gone. Poof. You hear me?"
"Loud and clear," I say, mimicking her tone. "Eviction notice received." Great. Where the hell am I supposed to go?
Her expression softens, just a fraction. "Look, I'm sorry for being a bitch. But Reagan really doesn't like you here. It's…bad for the kids. They see you moping and think it's okay to give up. This is New York, damn it! Dreams come true here."
"Not for me, they don't."
"Come on! Cheer up! Maybe…maybe Reagan could help you. You know, pull some strings."
My hackles rise immediately. "I don't need his fucking help."
"Girl," Tasha says, her eyes narrowing, "that is my husband you're talking about. You need to run some bleach through that mouth of yours before it gets you into serious trouble. And trust me, that man does not take well to disrespect."
"Just shut up, Tash."
"You talk like a virgin," she accuses, her lips twisting into a smirk. "You're so naive."
"Nah! I ain't no virgin. Those guys are so…bleurgh!" I shudder for effect.
Her smirk widens. "Hmm, I know you're a virgin. It's our little secret, right? But hey, if you say so."
"Fuck you!" I yell, throwing a decorative cushion at her.
She dodges it easily, bursting out laughing. "Love you too, sis! Now, get off your ass and go apply for something!"
She sashays out, still laughing. I hate that she's right. I love my sister, even when she's being a complete pain. But she and Reagan...they have no idea what to do with me.