Page 28 of Strike Zone

Me: Drinks tonight? I need a wingman.

Me: Wingwoman.

Brooke: Can I bring Anders?

Me: NO! What don’t you understand about being my wingperson?

Brooke: No need for shouty capitals.

Me: Viper at eight?

Brooke: Fine, but I get to veto your prospective man friends.

Me: Man friends? Really?

Brooke: What? Your twig and berries for the evening? The mangerines you want to mount? The stallion you plan you ride reverse-cowgirl?

Me: Stop!

Brooke: The stick you want to dip…

Brooke: That doesn’t work. You’re the dipped, not the dippee.

Me: I’ve changed my mind. Forget it.

Brooke: Grumpy much? You really do need to get laid. I’ll be there at eight, trying not to look as hot as you.

Me: You get one veto. No more.

Brooke: Deal.

When did my sister become a dork? Marriage has scrambled her brains. I can’t think of anything worse than a night out playing third wheel to her and Anders. I’d rather take off all my clothes and walk down Fifth Avenue.

* * *

“So, do you have a new date for the fight? I need another weekend in Vegas.”

“We don’t need an excuse. Call it a sister-bonding weekend, but we could go anytime. You and me.”

Brooke takes a long draw of her margarita. “I know, I’m totally lame now, but I don’t really want to go without Anders.”

“I’m glad I don’t need to point out your lameness. Seriously, you’re going to be that girl who never hangs out with friends or your own sister without your husband?”

“I know! It’s disgusting, right? I’m the loved-up idiot we used to mock.”

“Yep, and if you mention his name again tonight, you’re doing shots. Every time you gush over your husband, you’re doing a tequila shot.”

“Not fair. When do you have to do shots?”

“I don’t need a reason. I’m going to drink a little, flirt a lot, and find a cute guy to make out with.”

“Okay. Let operation wingwoman commence.” She picks up her drink and casually scans the bar. “What about that guy over there? He’s cute.” She nods to her left.

“Brooke, there are like ten guys where you’re nodding your head. I’m going to need some descriptive words.”

“Tallest guy, dark hair, cute butt.”

“No, clearly loves himself. I’m not in the mood for a guy who’s more attracted to himself than me.”

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