“I think it went well, don’t you?” Monty went on.
“Yes, I think you did an excellent job,” Hilliard said on his way to the kitchen. Monty followed him. “But you always do well in interviews.”
“I know, but this one was different. I had to be honest with nothing to fall back on without my magic.” Monty took a deep breath and huffed it out like he’d just recovered from the scare of his life. “Being honest is hard.”
A wry smile formed on Hilliard’s mouth as he rinsed the glasses out in the sink before setting them aside to dry. He had to do Joan’s glass a second time to scrub the last traces of her dark red lipstick away.
“I didn’t actually have time to do anything but wipe off with a rag and wet my hair before,” Monty told him. Hilliard had to brace himself against the counter with one hand at that image. “I’m going to get a real shower. I’ll try to save you some hot water.”
He shouted the last bit from the hallway, which made Hilliard snort a silent chuckle. He tore a piece of leftover sandwich off and tossed it to Henrietta, who caught it out of the air. He took a bite for himself next and leaned his hip on the counter, chewing slowly.
“Being honest is hard,” he whispered in agreement.
Chapter 13
Monty
Monty was in high spirits when they drove to Edie Haywood’s house. The interview with Joan had gone well, he and Hilliard were spruced up for the party, and filming the picture was going smoother than he could have hoped. Even better, Edie’s parties were famous for being strictly off the record. This meant everyone, including Monty, could relax and let loose without fear of their exploits gracing the headlines the next day. Her parties were raucous and unpredictable, Monty’s favorite kind. He gave a happy sigh and settled back in his seat. It felt weird riding in the Cadillac without Henrietta perched on his lap. But he was too excited to miss her too much. He’d earned this reprieve, and he was going to make the most of it.
“Not to sound like the proverbial fairy godmother,” Hilliard said as he pulled the car over to park on the street in front of Edie’s large house. “But please remember what we agreed to.”
“No later than 3 a.m.,” Monty said, already reaching for the door handle. “I’ll remember.”
They both got out and Monty leaned down to check his hair in the side mirror. He smoothed it down carefully. “I could always get a taxi if you need to get to bed.”
Hilliard shook his head. “Nothing doing. I won’t sleep at all if I’ve left you behind. We’re leaving together if I have to pour you into the backseat.”
Monty laughed and wrapped an arm around his friend’s shoulders. “You really are aces, you know that? You should let loose a little tonight too.”
“My idea of letting loose is?—”
“I know, I know. Crimping pie crust.”
Hilliard nodded. “After finishing up that laundry this afternoon, I’m fully at peace.”
Monty groaned. “Only guy I know who thinks hanging up laundry is a good time.”
“It’s soothing. Practically meditative.”
“The only meditation I want tonight is to be so focused on kissing someone that I lose track of who and where I am.”
Hilliard pulled open the door and held it for him. “Well, have fun, sweetheart. I’ll be around to remind you who you are later.”
Monty gave him a peck on the cheek and then plunged into the crowd. Everyone was dressed to the nines—well, the ones who were still dressed, that is. Some partygoers were already slipping out of their clothes. Monty made a quick circuit of the rooms, grabbing a drink on his way. It was a Gin Fizz, one of his favorites. He took a sip and relished the way the carbonation bubbled in his chest, making him feel light and airy. The drink was frothy and foamy on top and Monty gave a little hop at the pleasure of having a well-made drink after a thoroughly dry week.
“Glad to see you in better spirits, Mr. Kincaid,” someone said behind him.
He turned to see Fred Forsythe holding a lowball glass. “Joanie told me the interview went well.”
“It did. I can’t thank you enough for setting it up for me.”
“It was my pleasure. I’m looking forward to reading it.”
“Monty!” Edie Haywood appeared on his other side. She gave both of his cheeks a kiss. “So glad to see you! I’ve heard things are going great in your world.”
“Swell.”
She looked amused. “I’m glad to hear it. Have a good time, all right, honey? I think you’ve been here before, but Freddie can show you around if you need it.”
