Page 15 of Earl

“That’s because you have been busy with your love life.” Cathy pointed out as the girl plopped into a chair across from her. “How is the lawyer?”

“Fantastic!” Her friend raved, snapping her fingers impatiently to get the waiter’s attention.

“A double espresso and a club sandwich. God, I am starving. I have been trailing Mira Coombs for the past two days and the woman is driving me crazy.

She is of little talent and believes she is the greatest thing since sliced bread.” Her green eyes sparkled as she reached for Cathy’s water and took a gulp. “And I see my nemesis is back in town. How is the drag queen?”

“No.” Cathy shook her head firmly. “We are not doing that. You and Justin are going to make a conscious effort to suck it up and play nice. I am inviting you both to Monique’s end of summer shindig and I would like you to be on your best behavior.”

“I am not the one who is constantly making snide remarks.” She pouted. “And I hope you told him that he needs a haircut. Those dreadlocks are…”

“Endearing and they suit him very well.”

“You are always standing up for him. Just because I haven’t been brought up in a group home…”

“That’s right.” For a minute, Cathy felt the anger and frustration washing over her. “You are from a wealthy family and have no idea what it is to be in need. So, yes, Justin and I have that certain bond. Deal with it. It does not mean you are a lesser friend. It simply means Justin and I are more like family.”

Teresa sent her a chagrin look and backed down.

“I am sorry. My jealousy is showing.”

“You have no reason to be.” Cathy waited for the meal to be placed in front of them before resuming. “Speaking of which, I have news.”

“You found a man and the sex is fantastic.”

Cathy rolled her eyes and laughed, happy that harmony had been restored.

“You and Justin think alike, it’s a wonder you don’t get along.”

“We might be mortal enemies, but we have your best interest at heart. Now spill.”

“I finally gave into the pressure and am now officially dating online.”

Her friend stared at her in surprise. “Really?”

“Yes, really. You don’t sound too pleased.”

“I am in shock. Who is this guy?”

“His name is Earl. The app is called Hook…”

“Up.” Teresa nodded as she took a sip of her beverage. “It’s all the rage. I was speaking to a couple of actresses and they said they would strongly recommend the app. Apparently you just go on and talk, no photos, nothing like that.” She stared at her friend. “The guy might be a troll.”

“I don’t care,” Cathy laughed. “I am having the most fun I have had in ages. We have graduated to phone calls.”

“How long has this been going on?”

“Almost two weeks now. He has this very deep, distinctive voice that sends shivers up and down my spine. And we talk for ages.”

“He doesn’t work?”

“Of course. I get the impression that he is in management. He was in a meeting yesterday and we were texting.”

“While he was in the meeting?”

“Yes.” She nodded. “We can talk about anything. Silly things. When Justin first recommended it…”

“He did?”

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