“Yeah. Like I said, it works for me. Have you guys thought about doing your own thing?”
Katie nodded, to Justine’s surprise. “I have. I ended up getting a great boss at Mayze or I would have quit. I keep telling Justine she needs to branch out on her own.”
“But it’s scary,” Justine said. “Just as you said, no more benefits, no more schedule, no more clients.” She sighed. “All the freedom of being my own boss and all the risks.”
“That’s the truth.” Kenzie paused to drain her water bottle. “I totally had—and still have—those same fears. But the more work we do, the better we get.” She studied Justine. “We’re overflowing with needy clients. If you want to start freelancing, I can totally divert some work your way. Just let me know.” Shechecked her phone. “Dang it. I have to go. Evan’s freaking out about dinner.”
Justine had a pang of envy, that her friend seemed to have everything Justine wanted. But Kenzie had gone through a lot of negative experiences to get there. Her parents dying, raising her brother on her own. Friends but no family... Except it seemed like Kenzie had a family in her friends.
Kind of like Xavier and Katie. My friends who feel like family.
At least, Katie did. Justine still wasn’t sure what to make of Xavier.
Kenzie left them with promises of a future lunch date, and Katie turned to Justine. “Okay, woman. Tell me exactly how your review went. I heard from Rebecca, who said you didn’t look happy after leaving Frank’s office.”
“I’ll tell you, but only if you promise to just listen and not tell me what I should have said or done after my review.”
“Oh boy. I’m going to need something stronger than tea for this.” She left and returned with a plate of sticky buns. “You eat too, or I’ll feel guilty.”
“You don’t have to twist my arm.” Justine took a bite of sugary goodness and explained how awful her review had gone.
After, they sat in silence while Katie drew a finger through the leftover cinnamon sugar from the plate and licked her finger clean. “Am I to understand you now have two jobs for less than the price of one?”
“Yep.” Justine tried to keep a straight face.
Katie studied her. “Oh, Justine. I’m sorry.”
She teared up, though she’d been doing so well throughout her day. “Me too.” She blinked to clear her vision. “I’m still thinking about how to handle this.”
“So you’re not just going to take Frank’s bullshit. Good.” Katie glared. “I’m so done with that asshole. He treats you likecrap, and everyone knows he’s only golden because of the work he gets others to do for him. The senior staff on the team know he can’t bully them, while you’re their punching bag.” Katie took a deep breath then let it out. “Sorry. I got carried away.”
Justine patted her shoulder. “Don’t worry about it. I got carried away yesterday, trust me.” She finished off her latte. “I cried when I got home. Then guess what? My thirteen-year-old neighbor gave me a list of insults to use on Frank, and Xavier made me dinner.”
Katie sat up straighter. “Oh?”
“It was awesome. The food was incredible. I ended the night by falling asleep on him after we watchedRetribution III.”
“I love that movie!”
“I know.”
“All that gore and violence. Five stars, totally.” A funny comment coming from a perky blonde who tookcuteto new levels. “Xavier’s quite the friend, hmm?”
“Stop it with that look.”
“What? What look?”
“We’re just friends.” At Katie’s smirk, Justine grumbled, “Yes, with benefits. But I’m calling the shots. In fact, I’m heading to his place tonight for game night with his twin sister and our neighbor. Want to come?”
“Nope. I have a hot date with Jon.” Katie’s eyes sparkled. “He broke up with Alan. I’m so happy but sad for him. So I have to practice looking as if I’m upset Jon ended things. How’s this?” She made a few faces, none of which looked genuine.
“I’m not believing any of those. But I’m confused. Why did they break up? They just got engaged.”
Katie frowned. “Yeah, well, apparently Alan got an invite to a fashion week in Venice. And he didn’t want Jon to come with him. They argued, and it turns out Alan likes to sleep around with fellow professionals. He calls it networking. Jon calls itcheating. But Alan can’t bother to be tied down right now when his career is skyrocketing.” She paused. “Poor Jon. He’s acting all mad, but I think it’s more that he’s hurt.”
“Oh man. Want me to cancel and come over to offer moral support?”
Katie squeezed her hand. “That’s so sweet. But it’s okay. I’m picking up Jon’s favorite pizza and beer. We’re going to bond over sucky men. You go have fun with game night. And Xavier.” Katie wiggled her brows.
