“Fine.”
She’s only given me a reprieve. More than likely, she’ll bring up the subject again before the night is over.
“We’re here,” Anneli says excitedly.
Though I prefer to be home, her energy is starting to rub off on me. “Where is here?”
She points at a building where a group of people have congregated outside. Above the entrance is a glowing red sign that readsRed’s Bar & Lounge. Anneli drives around until she spots an available parking space. I feel out of place as we walk towards the entrance. Everyone looks glamorous and I’m so dull. My wardrobe excludes sexy clothes. This outfit is the best I could come up with on such short notice. My white sandals are a bit dirty and outdated. I’m totally out of my element. I’m at least twenty pounds heavier than my high school days, finally giving me a little ass and the breasts I’ve always coveted, but I still can’t fit into any of Anneli’s clothes.
As we walk through the crowded bar, Anneli waves at two men sitting at a round table in the distance.
“You didn’t tell me Christian would be here.”
They’ve been in a relationship for a little over a year. I’ve talked to him through video chat a few times if he happened to be around Anneli during our weekly call. Christian could be a male model with his blond hair, dark amber-colored eyes, and tan skin.
“I may have mentioned we would be here tonight, and he invited himself. It is a free country.”
“Who is that sitting at the table with him?”
She clears her throat, looking as guilty as a toddler who’s just been caught rummaging in the cookie jar. “Just a friend.”
“The same friend I told you not to set me up on a blind date with?”
Christian and his friend have a successful pediatric practice together. Most women would jump at the chance to be introduced to a single handsome doctor, but I’m not interested in dating. I have too many goals I need to accomplish and finding love isn’t on the list.
“Maybe.”
“I told you no dates.”
“It’s not a date. We’re a group of adults hanging out, pinky swear.”
“I would like to snap your pinky in half.”
“See? You’re violent because you need dick in your life.”
“I’m not sure who’s worse, you or my mom.”
“We want the best for you. Loosen up and live a little. I promise it won’t hurt. Also, I heard if you don’t use it, it’ll shrivel up and fall off. Now smile and put on your best sultry look.”
Christian comes around the table, enveloping me in a tight hug and kissing my cheek. “Cin, it’s so nice to finally see you in person.”
“Likewise.”
“This is my friend, Adrian.”
Adrian stands, holding out his hand. “It’s nice to meet you.”
He’s sex on a stick—tall and muscular with piercing gray eyes. His shoulder-length jet-black hair is tied at the nape of his neck. I’m hyperaware I resemble a bum. I’m going to kill Anneli. I would’ve searched for something more appealing to wear had she fessed up about her plan.
“It’s nice to meet you too, Adrian.”
I sit in the chair he pulls out for me.
“What can I get for you ladies?”
“I’ll have a Long Island iced tea,” I answer.
“Blue Motorcycle for me.” Anneli hated alcohol in high school, but the taste grew on her.
