Page 52 of The Manny

“We all have pride. Nothing feels better than when someone who rejected you says they made a mistake, right?” I smiled. “But because of Percy, you two need to be very sure before you get back together.”

“I agree. I know for sure how I feel. Having Barb back is a dream come true for me. It’s all I’ve thought about since she left me. I never wanted the divorce in the first place.” He hung his head. “I was trying to move on. You were the first person who interested me since we split. But if I’m honest, I was still praying Barb would one day want me back.” He glanced up looking sheepish. “I’m sorry.”

“Don’t be. That’s called moving forward. We latch on to others hoping they can make us forget the one that got away. Sometimes it works, and sometimes it doesn’t. I’m rooting for you and Barb.”

“Thanks, Thomas.”

The movie started at that moment and our conversation ended. I was conflicted about being friend-zoned by Aiden. While I was happy for him, it was a bit frustrating that, once again, I had no real romantic prospects on the horizon. I’d been looking forward to exploring things with Aiden. He was a step above the guys who usually hit on me. He was stable. Dependable. He was the kind of guy who’d have wanted something serious. It wouldn’t have just been about the sex with Aiden. The idea of dating a mature, sexy guy, for once, had intrigued me. But it seemed that ship had sailed, and I didn’t have a ticket.

After the movie, we went to a local steak house that had a nightclub attached. We ate in the restaurant, but the thumping music from next door could be heard even where we were. Our conversation was lively, and I felt comforted that Aiden truly did still want to be my friend. It was a relief to know he hadn’t befriended me just to fuck me.

When dinner ended we said goodbye and I watched Aiden drive away. I felt restless and not ready to go home. I hadn’t had any free time in so long, I wanted to stay out as long as possible tonight. Tomorrow I had to go back to being the dependable manny, but tonight I was a single guy looking for a good time.

I entered the club and paid the small cover charge. There was a DJ and the music was insanely loud. It reverberated through my entire body as I made my way to the bar. There were a few empty stools, and I snagged one on the end of the long bar.

The bartender was a cheerful middle-aged woman with spiky pink hair. “What can I get you, honey?” she asked, setting a cocktail napkin in front of me.

“Any drink specials?” I asked, when the DJ was between songs.

“Of course. Are you looking to get drunk, or just want something that tastes good?”

“I wouldn’t mind getting a little drunk.” I smiled. “It’s a plus if it tastes good too though.”

“How about a Tokyo iced tea?”

“What’s in it?”

“Everything you’d usually find in a Long Island iced tea, but instead of the mixers of cola or margarita mix I use Midori. It’s sweet and deadly.” She grinned.

“It sounds perfect.”

“Coming right up.” She turned away and went to fix the drink.

I swiveled my stool and faced the dance floor. It was crowded with couples who looked happy and sweaty. As per usual most people were straight couples, but there were a few guys who cast me interested glances. I was in a weird mood; restless, but not sure I wanted to hook up with some stranger. It was like I wanted male company, but didn’t.

The bartender returned with my drink and I paid her, not sure I’d stay for a second beverage. She smiled happily at my generous tip. “Drink slowly, honey. Men twice your size have been taken down by that drink.”

I laughed and sipped the drink after she walked away. I winced at how strong the flavor of tequila was, but also enjoyed the sweetness of the Midori liqueur. Foolishly, I didn’t heed her warning and instead drank way faster than was smart. I felt a bit rebellious and sorry for myself tonight, never a good combination.

After finishing my second Tokyo iced tea I was feeling no pain. I’d danced a few times with a guy named Roy who was basically hitting on anything that moved. He wasn’t my type, so no way was I sleeping with him. But Roy was useful if I wanted to dance.

It was around midnight when my phone buzzed in my pocket. I was on my third Tokyo iced tea and had my Uber scheduled. I clumsily tugged my phone from my pocket and saw Jack’s name. My heart picked up speed as I swiped to open my phone. I was scared for a minute that something was wrong, but relaxed when I read his text.

Sorry to bother you. I wasn’t sure if you have your key and I didn’t want to lock you out if you didn’t.

I smiled. “Awww, how considerate. He has a heart after all.” I responded,Thank you. I do have my key.

Okay.The little dots bounced for a few moments.Will you be home soon?

Surprised at the question, I laughed.Miss me?

No

I scowled. “Asshole.”That’s not nice.

He didn’t respond.

I tucked my phone away and went back to people watching. It was getting to the part of the evening when everyone began to pair up. When Roy circled back around to me, I had an uneasy feeling he hoped he’d get lucky with me tonight. He was wasting his time with me, but I hated bursting his bubble.

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