Chapter 26
twenty-six
. . .
Brandon
Man Chat
Jake
Welcome to the brotherhood, Brandon! About damn time we got you in here.
Wyatt
Wait. Is the invite because of Stella? Or are we changing the rules?
Lucas
Stella or no Stella, welcome to the fun.
Grant
Saw you both at that FlixPix premiere last night – very cozy.
Brandon
Thanks guys. But Stella and I are just friends.
Jake
Friends? That's not how you looked at her at that wrap party.
Brandon
I'm pretty sure I was looking at her like I always do.
Wyatt
How were you looking at her?
Jake
Anyway, apologies for the late add - but consider this your official invite to Manmorial Weekend.
Jake
[Dropped pin]
Lucas
Three days of golf, cigars, and questionable life choices.
Grant
Speak for yourself. Some of us are reformed.
Jake
Reformed my ass. You're bringing the poker chips.
Brandon
It's an honor to be included.
Wyatt
Stella can join the girls' weekend while you decompress with us. Win-win.
Jake
Friday afternoon arrival, golf Saturday morning at Torrey Pines, deep sea fishing Saturday afternoon, poker and whiskey Saturday night. Sunday recovery and more golf.
Lucas
Plus Jake's famous Sunday morning breakfast burritos that somehow cure every hangover known to man.
Grant
Fair warning…Jake takes his golf very seriously. He'll be keeping score and talking trash.
Jake
Damn right I will. Brandon, you play?
Brandon
Some. Haven't had much time lately with work.
Wyatt
Perfect excuse to get back into it. Nothing like ocean air and friendly competition.
Lucas
By friendly he means Jake will crush your soul if you beat him.
Jake
That's what makes it fun. So you in, Grimaldi?
Brandon
Yeah, count me in. Sounds like exactly what I need.
Grant
Excellent. Fair warning…no phones during poker. House rules.
Jake
And no talking about work.
Wyatt
Looking forward to having you there, man. It's about time.
Brandon
Thanks for including me. Really.
Lucas
Welcome to the club. Your liver may never forgive you.