Page 125 of I Love My Mistake

Jack catches my eye. He’s not happy. What happened up there that’s got him this upset? He’s got a phone in his hand. Did someone call? There’s a deep crease in between Jack’s eyebrows as he walks up. His eyes tell me he wishes he didn’t have to say what he’s about to say.

He joins us by the bar and motions for the bartender to give him another. Then he turns to us and purses his lips. “I have bad news, Ms. Henry.”

Dread hits me hard. I always imagine the worst. It’s in my nature. “You’re kidding. You mean there’s something else, besides Michael’s wife calling me a whore and Jess’s cheating ex-boyfriend showing up like a crazy nightmare?”

He pauses. “Afraid so. I just got a call. The New Yorker sends their regards. They won’t be coming tonight.”

My friends all look at me, surprised as a relieved grin spread across my lips. “Jeez Jack! Is that all?” Through laughter, I say, “You scared me for a second. Stop looking at me like that, guys! Who cares if they come?”

Jack, usually so jaded and sardonic, is the most taken aback. He even looks disappointed. “You don’t care?”

“Not at all. Who cares what a critic thinks when I’m surrounded by friends like these?” I look up at Mark and add, “And a boyfriend so wonderful, I can’t believe it.”

Marks face glows with pride. He kisses my nose and raises his glass again.

“To Nicole’s first show!”

Everyone brings theirs glasses together and cheers. Jack toasts with us, but as my group drinks from our glasses, he turns away, calling playfully over his shoulder, “The New Yorker’s won’t be coming tonight… because they’re coming tomorrow.”

“Jack! You jerk! You just wanted to see if you could…”

He chuckles his way into the crowd and doesn’t let me finish.

“Can you believe that guy?” I ask my friends.

“Wait! He was pulling your leg?” Amber asks.

Josh laughs, “I like him. We think alike.” Amber hits him. “That’s foreplay for us. Amber, come on, we’re out in public,” he teases her, making her smile.

Chris’s arm is around Jess as they both watch Amber and Josh being silly. Mark has my hand tightly tucked in his. My heart expands as I look around the group.

“I have one last toast.” They all look at me, bringing their glasses up and waiting. One after the other, I look into their eyes…with Mark’s last. I smile wide.

“To family.”

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