I would have apologized to Caleb but then Sophie arrived and August promptly swooped over and distracted me. I didn't know she had already called ahead to tell Caleb she was coming. They don't tell me these things, they let it flash into me and watch it sting.
I was already drunk and so I asked her if she was here for the annual sugar daddy fishing derby. That she could catch a nice one and that I heard that there was one swimming around nearby. Then I laughed and August grabbed my hand and tried to drag me back to the house. Too late though.
August. You look well.
You too, Soph.
How is life treating you?
Life is good. I have no complaints.
What do you do these days?
Private counseling.
A lot of clients?
Just one but it's a personal position. Lucrative but I'm here because it's rewarding.
I snort with laughter and cover my face. She stands there towering over me looking poised,
August is my resource. He looks after me now. formally and informally.
I'm glad to see you're in good hands. She smiles warmly at me. I want to smack her but I probably can't reach.
Just then Caleb comes out and pales slightly because..well, because I'M there.
Sophie.
Caleb.
Glad you could stop by. I have a light supper ready for us if you'd like to come in.
I would love to. I'm just finishing catching up with Bridget.
He nods at me and I mouth a good curse or seven at him. August squeezes my hand and makes our excuses. Time to go in. Bridget and I have a record-listening date.
How lovely. Take care, both of you.
You too.
He crushes my hand and drags me away. I'm still imitating her as we arrive on the front porch.
How much have you had?
Enough to have no censor but not enough to barf on anyone's shoes, sadly.
Sorry you had to see her.
Sorry she shows up on my property and flashes her perfection at everything with a cock? Mmmm. Right. I just feel haphazard and chaotic now. And really really drunk.
She's jealous of you, Bridge.
AHAHAHAHAHA. Of what exactly? That I can fit inside my own handbag? Woo. Yup. Envy me, world.
That you're loved by many.
And I drive the rest to die.
Bridget-
If you're recompensed to make me feel better you best get at it, because the clock is ticking. Are you paid by the hour or the session? The week maybe?
I resorted to a text message apology to Caleb once the alcohol wore off. He never did reply.
