Page 168 of Clinically Bewitched
Phase Six: Exterior Repairs
Estimated Completion: Before Baby Arrival (CRITICAL)
“He’s color-coding the phases,” Vivian observed, looking over my shoulder.
“Of course he is,” Nathan said.
“And he’s added a Gantt chart,” Winnie added.
“What’s a Gantt chart?” Quinton asked.
“A timeline visualization tool,” I said, not looking up.
“He’s also added a risk assessment matrix,” Gabriel said.
“And a contingency plan,” Hayden added.
“And a backup contingency plan,” Fitz said.
“And a backup backup contingency plan,” Vivian finished.
“Proper planning prevents piss-poor performance,” I said.
“That’s a lot of P’s,” Quinton observed.
“It’s a principle.”
“It’s an obsession.”
“Same thing.”
Because I had a house.
A house with good vibes.
A house that felt like home and a support system of people who would mock me relentlessly while helping me renovate it.
A house that, according to Nathan, had been waiting for me.
The universe had won this round, but I was okay with that, because sometimes surrendering to chaos led to exactly where you needed to be. Even if I needed a spreadsheet to get there.
And a team of colleagues who believed in cabinet vibes.
And a sister who documented your every breakdown.
And a wife who trusted the universe even when you didn’t.
“Julien?” Athena’s voice came from my phone, which I’d propped against the wall.
“Yes?”
“I love you.”
“I love you too.”
“Even though you’re already making spreadsheets?”
“Especially because I’m making spreadsheets.”
