“Sure, why not.”
Cornwhall’s is packed to the brim with undergrads, so we decide to head to O’Malley’s instead. The local dive bar is a hot spot for grad students due to its close proximity to campus and discounts for Westchester staff. They are also one of the few bars around that carded, which meant no awkward run-ins with any of my students. Mikey and I secured a table near thebar and pool tables. So far, he was two Bud Lights and a tequila shot in.
“What happened to the days where all it took was a single beer to get you buzzed?”
“I’m older now Vi. And no longer conditioning for hockey season. You keep buying me beers and you’ll have to apply for another grant to pay the tab.”
“I already told the waitress you’d clean the toilets to cover your bill.”
“I’ve done worse for less, Vi.” He winks while chugging the remains of his second beer.
I roll my eyes before scanning the bar. I am surprised Mason isn’t here yet. I see a group of guys walking in the front door, Carlos following closely behind.
“Hey Carlos!” I wave my hand in his direction.
Carlos scans the crowd at the sound of his name and a smile breaks out when he spots me. He heads to our table.
“Violet! I feel like I haven’t seen you in forever.” Carlos gives me a small hug and his hand lingers on my waist before he settles in the chair next to mine. “I didn’t know you drank anything other than my chai lattes.”
“Ugh I miss your chai lattes. I’ve been busy running participants this week and haven’t had time to drop by, but I’ll definitely be around next week. Carlos, this is my friend Mikey. Mikey, this is Carlos, my favorite barista and manager of the Beanery.”
Mikey sticks out one hand while flagging the waitress over with the other. “Nice to meet you, man.”
“So how do you two know each other?” Carlos gestures between us.
“We grew up together in Castle Harbor. Just outside of Boston.” I clarify.
“I still can’t believe I haven’t made it up there after living so close. How do I book the official Violet Amin tour?”
Mikey gives me a knowing look. “Yeah there’s a lot to loveabout Castle Harbor. Including the people. Right, Vi? Remember the love?”
“Don’t start,” I warn him before turning to Carlos. Carlos has always been a flirt, but he doesn’t mean anything by it. The charm is good for business. “Castle Harbor’s a super small town. Everyone knows everyone. We’re all one big, dysfunctional family.”
“I grew up in Phoenix and think I had a neighbor named Ray? Oscar? Our community wasn’t all that close. So, what brings you two here tonight?”
“Celebrating the Westchester win against BC. Cornwhall’s was undergrad central, so we decided to come here.”
“Since when are you into hockey?” The surprise in Carlos’ voice pains me a little. Grad school Vi is not as vibrant as she used to be. The idea of me engaging in any social activities would probably surprise the man who only sees me huddled in a coffee shop every day.
“Uh, since always. I grew up watching it. I think most kids in the greater Boston area do. I stopped following it for a little while…but now I’m getting back into it. Mikey actually used to play for Westchester a couple years back.” I wait for Mikey to contribute something, but he seems content just sitting there, almost done with his new beer.
Carlos tries to keep the conversation alive. “Oh that’s cool. So that’s why you went to the game tonight? Reliving the old glory days?”
Mikey perks up, presumably at the opening to bring up Mason again, and offers, “Something like that.”
Carlos makes to slide off the chair. “Looks like you’ve both made your way through your drinks. Why don’t I grab us some more, Mikey another beer? What about you Violet?”
“Hmm. I’d love?—”
I’m cut off by the sound of a pint glass gently being set on the table in front of me, my eyes catching the tattooed arm attached.
“Downeast Cider. Right, Vi?”
Mikey looks pleased like he’d hoped this would happen. I turn around slowly and see Mason standing behind me. He still has on the gray dress shirt from earlier, with the sleeves rolled up to his elbows. I have the sudden urge to run my fingers over the exposed tattoo.
“Um yes. That’s what I wanted. Thanks.”
“Carlos, good to see you again.” Mason’s tone suggests otherwise. “Sorry I couldn’t grab you a drink. My hands were full.” He gestures to the beer in his hand and the cider on the table for me.
