Page 75 of Legal

“Done with work for the weekend?” Michelle asked. I nodded, waving to Henry, who was sprawled out on a lawn chair not far from us. Sasha was running around in circles yapping.

“I’m meeting Perry and my brother soon. Just a little celebration. They recently got engaged.”

“Good for them.” She took a long drag. “Tell them congratulations from me.”

“Will do.” I brushed a bit of dirt off my dress. “What about you two—any plans?”

“Nah. Ran out of those little blue pills. Won’t be much happening here.” Why couldn’t they do something else? Although, Henry looked like he’d be sleeping soon. “Speaking of”—she winked—“Your fresh stud muffin going tonight?”

I covered my mouth with my hand and giggled. Stud muffin? “No, just me.”

She peered closer at me, making me feel like a farm animal under inspection. Her eyes roamed over my face. “What’re you using on your skin? It looks incredible.”

“Um, nothing different.” The only thing I was doing new was exceeding my daily allowance of orgasms. I’d heard that they were excellent for increasing blood flow and bringing that youthful glow to your skin. Maybe they were onto something.

“I knew it! You’ve been getting those”—she held her hand up to her mouth—“special treatments.”

Good Lord. “No, Michelle.” If a man was going to come on my face, it wouldn’t be for that reason.

“Don’t let her talk you into anything, Jillian,” Henry yelled out, eyes still closed.

My cheeks grew hot. This was awkward. Michelle waved her hand around. “Ah, he doesn’t know anything.”

“I know you spend too damn much on those fancy creams and skin whatchamacallits.”

“They’re called facials, Henry,” she screamed back, even though he was only a dozen feet away. She touched my arm. “Keep doing what you’re doing, honey. You look fabulous.”

“Thank you.”

Enjoy it while it lasts, Jillian.

I walked into Wengo’s, 80s music blaring, and scanned around for their table. I’d seen Perry and Stephen before they saw me, and I had a moment to brace myself. Even though I told her I was most likely coming solo, she still expected me to change my mind.

I navigated through the aisles and gave them each hugs before plopping down on the tall wooden chair. They already had a pitcher of beer and a large basket of wings on the table. I loved this place. Easygoing, great food, live music later in the evenings.

“What took you so long?” Perry said.

“The walk took a little longer than I thought.” I was thinking thirty minutes, but it was more like forty.

“You walked? Why the hell would you do that?”

“I like walking. And it’s a nice night.”

I poured myself a cup of beer while Perry glowered at me. One, two, three. Go.

“Where’s Chase?” Right on time.

“Chase?” Stephen looked dumbfounded.

“I told you I was coming alone.”

“Why would Chase be here?” Stephen asked.

“No, you said probably coming alone. That’s not the same thing. This was your first maid of honor strike.” Perry narrowed her eyes.

I shook my head and grabbed a wing, something to keep my mouth full.

“You said she was bringing her new boyfriend, Perry.” Stephen pivoted his head between us. “What the fuck is going on here? You actually seeing this kid now?”

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