Zoe Achieng, a 25-year-old Nairobi-based content creator, suddenly finds herself homeless after a gas explosion leaves her apartment in ruins (along with her dreams of being a Pinterest queen). With nowhere else to go, she moves in with her estranged, drama-loving aunt Pauline, a retired actress who still thinks she’s starring in her own soap opera.

Zoe quickly realizes the real challenge isn't just rebuilding her life—it’s surviving her aunt's outrageous routines, her neighbor's pet goat (who thinks he's a dog), and dodging the well-meaning setups from her aunt who is determined to get her married off to "any man with a job and a neck."

Meanwhile, Zoe is hiding a secret: she was on the verge of launching a major brand collaboration—until the explosion literally blew it up. As she tries to fake perfection online, the chaos in her real life becomes harder to hide.

Through the madness, unexpected friendships, and hilarious confrontations with Pauline’s chaotic church group, Zoe learns that perfection is overrated, and sometimes being knocked off your high horse is the best thing that can happen to you.

 "Zoe Tries Online Therapy and Ends Up Coaching Her Therapist Instead"


After her recent series of emotionally confusing dates (see: Beanbag Boy), a passive-aggressive call from her mom, and a full-blown identity crisis over her content aesthetic, Zoe finally gave in.


"I just need to talk to someone who isn't related to me… or feathered," she mumbled, side-eyeing Sir Squawksalot, who was actively chewing her earrings.


She lit a candle (for the vibes), brewed some tea (for the illusion of calm), and put on a hoodie that said "Healing in Progress."


The therapist popped up on Zoom. Mid-30s, calm voice, too many inspirational posters in the background.


Zoe smiled awkwardly. "Hi. I'm Zoe and I think I'm spiraling but in like... a hot, Instagrammable way?"


Dr. Brenda: "Let's explore that spiral. What triggered it?"


Zoe: "My apartment exploded. And I've been living with my dramatic aunt and a parrot who judges me."


Dr. Brenda: "Let's talk about your inner child."


Zoe: "She's fine. She just wants someone to Venmo her rent."


Dr. Brenda: "Sometimes I wonder if I chose the right profession. Do you ever question your path?"


Zoe: "Uhh… aren't you supposed to ask me that?"


Dr. Brenda sighed and leaned back. "Sorry. My ex just texted me 'hope you're healing' and I nearly threw my succulent."


Zoe blinked. "Wait. Are we trauma bonding right now?"


Forty Minutes In… Therapist Becomes the Patient


Dr. Brenda: "Do you think I'm too emotionally available? My cat left me for my neighbor. He just… never came back."


Zoe, sipping tea: "Honestly? You need boundaries. And a door with a stronger lock."


Dr. Brenda, tearing up: "You're so right."


Zoe: "Also maybe consider journaling. Or punching a pillow. I do both. Sometimes at the same time."


Dr. Brenda: "Zoe… I know this was supposed to be your session, but… can I book you again next week?"


Zoe: "I think I healed someone. Spiritually. Maybe even professionally."


Pauline nodded. "Therapize the therapist. That's my girl."


Sir Squawksalot squawked, "She's not licensed, but she's loud!"


Chapter 33 - Zoe Tries Online Therapy and Ends Up Coaching Her Therapist Instead”