Page 29 of Present Tense

“Well then, he’s going to need a refill, you fucking enabler.” I storm out of the club.

I slam the car door, and Fletch peels out to make me smile. He takes my hand and kisses it. Tears stream down my face, and he doesn’t flinch. We ride for five or so minutes, with me trying to get my crying under control and his hand being my anchor back to reality. I haven’t had an anchor in so long. I’m so tired of swimming all by myself.

His voice breaks into my thoughts of self-pity. “Vodka or gin?”

“Gin,” I say.

“Cheesesteaks?”

I smile. “Duh.”

“Pat’s or Geno’s?”

“Both.” He squeezes my hand and puts it on his thigh. “Wit Whiz. And cheese fries.”

“Of course with Cheese Whiz.”

I turn my body toward the window and stare out at the familiar surroundings. I leave my hand on his thigh. He’s not running, but he shouldn’t have to deal with it all. I never should have allowed Liam to come with me. I should have kept it all separate. But it was nice to have someone on my side.

The trees are rushing by as we hit the highway. It’s all a blur. All of it. It’s raindrops on a chalk drawing. Nothing makes sense, but the colors are all still there. We make it back to the city, and he stops in front of The Olde Bar, and I’m confused.

“Wait here.” He runs in, and I scroll my texts. I miss Ethan and I want to avoid telling my brother. I need a distraction. I text my best friend, who happens to be the stepmom of Ethan’s best friend and my work wife. The boys are two glorious weirdos who found each other. I adore Meg and her husband, Jake. I don’t know what I’d do without them.

JILLIEN: Got laid.

MEG: How laid?

JILLIEN: Very. And very hot.

MEG: Nick?

JILLIEN: Not the trainer. An intriguing old friend. We grew up together, but I haven’t seen him in decades.

MEG: Give me one juicy bit. I’m freaking fried, frazzled, and exhausted from the damn non sleeping toddler. Give me a little something Jake and I can use.

JILLIEN: Eww. But I acted like a damn porn star. The man has the most gifted tongue on the planet.

MEG: Those are fighting words. J’s got it on lock. Perhaps mystery man and J could exchange notes. Never mind, Jake’s tongue is fucking perfect. Also, I don’t want to know the porn deets. Where are you? Come for dinner.

JILLIEN: Philly. Coming home on the 26th.

MEG: WHA?

JILLIEN: I’m spending Xmas here then I’m bringing him to your party - NYE.

MEG: YEAH!! I get to meet this charmer of your kitty cat.

JILLIEN: Stop talking.

MEG: The Prince Valiant of your Vajayjay.

JILLIEN: OMFG.

MEG: That’s what she said.

JILLIEN: Stop.

MEG: Can’t. I want to meet the Prince of your Panties.