Page 32 of Her Three Tech Bros

“To let you know that I’m on my way.”

“Cool. See you soon.”

As I wait for them, I walk back inside, through the common area, and toward the bar.

Several options of American Imperial Stouts fill the beer fridge. I smile and chuckle as I think of how our success introduced us to high-end experiences. Our tastes are more mature these days. No longer do we enjoy beers that have no taste and run through you like water. We now appreciate robust, intense flavors with a hint of bitterness.

As I grab a beer, I realize it’s become something of a tradition for us to hang out and drink beers, share laughs, and play games at least once a month. Keeping the conversation light and fun clears our minds and helps us to unwind.

We try our best not to talk about work during these nights. If we come across a promising business idea, we jot it down and save it for our next work meeting.

But tonight, I may have to get serious. I have something on my mind, something I can’t shake off. And I’m not sure that I can have much fun until we talk.

I sit at the bar and enjoy my first beer while I think about how I’m going to approach the topic that’s been on my mind.

Finally, the elevator door opens. Ryan and Logan saunter out into the foyer. Ryan’s easy going manner is clear in his relaxed posture and carefree smile.

“We’re here,” Ryan announces. He flashes another huge smile.

“Why do you think you need to announce yourself?” I ask Ryan.

“I don’t know. Just to be an ass.” I glare at him. “Or maybe just to make sure I don’t get sprayed or tasered.”

“As if you could get up here without the elevator code. And you haven’t pissed me off enough for me to change it. But I get it. You never know. Always be prepared for action, right?”

“You know it,” Ryan says.

Logan trails with a pensive yet peaceful look on his face.

“What say you, Sir Logan?” I joke. “What action art thou looking for? Wilt thou be slaying some dragons on this night?”

“Sir Ethan, thou art a fucking idiot. But if you’ve got an Xbox ready to go, you’re on.”

“Xbox?” I exclaim. “Only poker on bro nights, man! You know that.”

“It’s just a joke! Damn! Lighten the fuck up!” Logan returns, pretending to be offended.

Ryan and Logan both head to the fridge and grab their stout of choice. Using the opener on the side, they pop open their bottles and fill some pint glasses. Once they have their beers, I make my second beverage choice.

“Are we inside, or out on the terrace?” Logan asks.

“Why don’t we start outside?”

As we settle on the terrace enjoying our beers, a hazy, comfortable silence envelops us. One thing I’ve always liked about the penthouse is the beautiful view of the busy streets below without the distracting noise of traffic. Seeing the city lights illuminate the night is particularly calming.

“Did someone grab the cards?” I ask.

“Shit, I forgot,” Ryan says.

“You better not fucking cheat tonight, dude,” Logan mutters.

“Dude, I never fucking cheat! You can’t even cheat at poker.”

I walk away to get the cards as Logan reminds Ryan of the many times he’s gotten caught cheating. When I return, Ryan is still defending himself.

“Admit it! You’re just saying this because I always win and you never do.”

“Or he’s saying it because you cheat,” I offer.

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