“You’re not the first person call me out on how I treat Walker. It’s okay.” She looks thoughtful but not upset, so I feel like we’ve made progress. I know she’s got to work through all those feelings on her own, but I’ll do whatever I can to support her.
“I’m sorry, Mads. I’m not trying to put you on the spot.”
“It’s okay. Besides, it’s past time I dealt with all this. Old habits are hard to break.” Don’t I know it.
“We need movie night. Something funny. You pick.” That’s enough of serious conversations for tonight. I need to get my girl smiling again. It’s time for a distraction.
“Yes! With popcorn.”
“And M&M’s.”
“You remember!” I finally get the smile I’m looking for, and the warmth of it makes everything bright again.
“Always.”
Madison
I’ve never had a lot of girlfriends. And most of the time, I don’t care because I’ve always had Kenji. But a gay guy friend, although spectacular, is not a girlfriend. I envy women with a solid friend group, but I’ve never found the right one for me. I probably didn’t try as hard as I could have, if I’m honest.
When Joslyn asked me to join her and a group of friends for drinks Saturday night, I was intrigued but wary. I reluctantly agreed to meet them for happy hour. She’s the only person I know, and we’ve only interacted in professional situations. When we met to discuss the yoga class for the team, she was so fun and easy to be around, and I found myself wishing we had more time to chat. I don’t know many other women business owners, and I’d really like to. I feel like she has so much wisdom to share.
It’s September, and the weather in Denver is warm in the afternoon and early evening, so we’re meeting at the Emerald Eye in Larimar Square. Joslyn assured me they have dog-friendly outdoor seating and that she would be bringing her dog,Abby. I couldn’t help but think Ace could use a dog friend. So here we are, despite my misgivings.
I give the hostess Joslyn’s name, and she leads me to a large patio table where three beautiful women, dressed in heels and power suits, are talking quietly. They’re so well put together that I just stop and stare. I don’t know any of them, but one has curly red hair similar to Joslyn’s. Are they related? I don’t know, but they’re intimidating as hell. I almost walk away, but two things happen simultaneously.
Ace let out a loud bark, pulling at his leash, and Joslyn walks up behind me with Abby in tow. Abby and Ace immediately start the whole dog greeting ritual, including a butt sniff. Yuck. Thank God humans just shake hands.
“Madison! I’m so glad you came.” She looks genuinely happy to see me, and I feel an answering warmth as I smile back.
“Thanks for the invite.” I say as she ushers me to one end of the table with the other women, since our dogs seemed determined to continue their sniff fest. As we seat ourselves, she’s asking me about Ace. Before I know it, I’m telling her about the break-in situation like we’ve been friends forever.
I envy her ability to put everyone at ease. I’m not shy, but in social situations, I tend to hang back a bit. People always seem surprised by that since I own a business. For me, business feels different. Easier. I’m not quite as adept when it’s a personal thing.
Which doesn’t seem to bother Joslyn a bit. She introduces me around the table with easy familiarity. There’s her daughter Lily, who looks so much like her. They could be sisters. Next to her is Lexi Hawk, Damon’s daughter. The black hair and the mesmerizing blue eyes give her away. She’s a female version of the Wolves GM, and she’s gorgeous. I recognize the last woman right away. I’m not sure how I missed it before. Probably because I was nervous. Mel is Joslyn’s PA, and we’ve met before.She’s a beautiful brunette with deep blue eyes and the sweetest smile.
“Good to see you again, Ms. King.” Her voice is so soothing, with an almost musical quality. She would make an amazing book narrator.
“Call me Maddie, please. It’s so good to see you again, Mel.”
“You too! I was hoping you would come today! You’re the perfect addition to our group.” She states brightly. I’m not sure about that, but I appreciate her kind enthusiasm. It does feel good to be a part of it.
Ace, finally done sniffing Abby’s butt, settles down but doesn’t want to stray far. They are lying down on the cool concrete next to each other, as if they’ve known each other for ages. It’s the absolute cutest thing, and I snap a quick picture because... dogs.
“They like each other!” Joslyn says with enthusiasm.
“I know, right. Could they possibly get any cuter?” I reach down to give them both a quick pat on the head. I thought Ace’s fur was soft, but Abby’s feels like silk.
We give our drink order to the server along with a couple of appetizers to share. I’m grateful when Joslyn requests water for the dogs. Ace and Abby seem perfectly content just to hang out together.
“How is everything with your studio? I’ve been meaning to drop by for a class but I hardly have time to breathe these days. Maybe once the season starts and we get all the administrative stuff handled. I used to take classes near my house, but the studio closed down. I love that you’re close to the arena.” Joslyn tells me.
“Yes! Tell us about your studio.” Lily is just as friendly as her mom, and I appreciate the opportunity to network a little. Talking about business, I can handle.
“I’ve got classes at all levels. Beginner through expert, so you can pick the one that works for you. I also do a kid’s class for the local community center on Friday afternoons. It’s my favorite one.” I tell her.
“Oh, that sounds adorable. I love kids.” Mel says with a sigh, she follows it up with a hasty, “Of course, I don’t want any yet. I’m definitely not ready.” Me neither, and I’m much older than her.
“Amen to that!” Lexi adds, and we all chuckle.
