Page 125 of Babies at Coconuts

Chapter 88

Suzy got to Coconuts first in an attempt to calm herself before her friends arrived. Choosing their familiar table, an almost-smile crossed her face. I wonder how long I’ll be able to climb atop this high bar stool.

Gus sauntered over, exchanged greetings, and asked if she wanted her usual merlot. Obviously completely puzzled when she ordered green tea, he shrugged. “Interesting. Be right back.”

She glanced around the darkened bar. I love this place. Usually, the overhead, lazy palm frond ceiling fans, tranquil beach scene, and fake palm trees calmed her, but not tonight. In fact, her heart sank as she wondered if and when she and Ken would ever be able to go on a tropical vacation.

The unknowing, early Happy Hour crowd chattered, likely excited to be off work for cocktail therapy. As the front door opened and bright sunlight streamed inside, Suzy squinted.

A smiling Hope strode toward her as Gus set a cup of steaming green tea in front of Suzy. Eyebrows raised, she asked, “Detoxing?”

“Something like that.”

Hope ordered a margarita and regaled Suzy with the art student van painting story since Alex was late.

Within minutes and in her usual flurry, Alex rushed inside and waved Gus over.

“The—”

“—usual.” He finished her sentence and winked.

“You’re so good, Gus.” Alex adjusted her black pencil skirt.

“Chard coming right up.” Gus wove through the crowd, tray high in the air, as he placed the order at the end of the bar. The bartender nodded while simultaneously pouring foamy beers on tap.

After she hung her purse on the hook screwed to the bottom of the table, Alex wrinkled her nose when she noticed Suzy’s tea. “What is that?”

“I just felt like having green tea. No big deal.”

“That’s different.” Alex reached for the chilled chardonnay Gus handed her.

“Care for any food, ladies?”

“Are you guys hungry? Food is on me tonight,” Suzy said.

“In that case, I’m starving.” Hope laughed. “How about some crab cakes. I’ll share.”

“Ooh, and maybe some of those bacon-wrapped dates,” Alex said.

“No bacon for me,” Suzy said.

Both Alex and Hope turned toward her and stared as if she’d grown horns.

“No bacon?” Hope asked. “That’s insanity. Bacon is a food group.”

Alex studied Suzy over her wine. “Since when don’t you like bacon?”

“Your detox diet must be intense.” Hope licked some salt off her glass. “I couldn’t live without bacon.”

Gus cleared his throat. “So . . . bacon-wrapped dates or not?”

Chuckling, Hope said, “Yes. I’ll eat Suzy’s.”

Alex patted her purse. “I’ll spring for coffee and dessert later. It’s payday.”

“Thanks. I’ve got a roast cooking for dinner, so I’ll munch, but you girls go ahead.”

Gus removed their zebra print menus. “Be right back with your food.”

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