Oh, so she just created our itinerary then?
Jake
Fuck you. You know I can’t go to some places we typically go to.
Me
Right. You’re in love. Or whatever…
I flinch, hoping I haven't reopened old wounds. I can't stand his fiancée, and Jake knows exactly how I feel. While he understands she's not for everyone, he's completely in love with her. I care deeply for Jake, and because he loves her, I do what any best friend would do—I support him the best I can.
Jake
You should try it. Maybe someone would finally sleep with you.
Me
Hilarious.
Jake
Where are you? Wanna grab lunch at Joan’s?
Me
On my way to have lunch with Soph—raincheck?
Jake
Tell Soph hi…
Jake was my roommate throughout undergrad and law school. He’s one of the top entertainment lawyers in LA andclose to making partner at Hays and Cole, one of the best entertainment law firms in town. It’s where I’d love to work and where I will never get to work. Bradford and Associates is my legacy. The minute I was born, my destiny was preordained.
As much shit as I give Jake, I get it. It must be an incredible feeling to fall in love and build a life with someone. I just don’t think it’s in the cards for me. I’ve tried. I even lived with a girl during the pandemic. However, I hate flings and one-night stands even more. Luckily, I have a few arrangements in place when the need arises.
Speak of the devil.
Bethany
Hey love, I’m in town this week if you have time for dinner.
ME
Can I let you know? New client starting.
Bethany
Of course. If it can’t work, I’ll be back in a few weeks.
I run my hand through my hair and catch my reflection in the rearview mirror.
What am I doing?
I should lock in time with Bethany right now. A new client won’t keep me that busy. But I’m not feeling it lately. I’m in a funk. Maybe it’s because Jake is getting married and I’m losing my wingman. Not that he’s been a wingman for a while now.
Or maybe it’s because I already had my chance at love twelve years ago. When I watched it fail spectacularly, I knew nothing else would even compare to what we had.
three
