Page 104 of The First Time
Joel looks between us. "Do you two think I'm an idiot?"
"My personal life is none of your business." My voice is defensive. On edge.
Joel looks to me. "I get that this isn't fair to you, Piper, but it's the way it is. If Mal or Ethan finds out you and Kit are fucking, that's it. He's out of the band."
Frustration flares in Kit's dark eyes. Then sympathy. Or maybe it's pity.
He agrees with Joel.
But that's ridiculous.
"This is bullshit." I can't help myself. I raise my voice to a much too loud for this very nice, very expensive restaurant volume. "I'm an adult."
"I'm on your side." Joel motions for me to lower my voice. "But this is how it is."
"This must be Piper." The waiter stops at our table. He nods hello to Joel then turns to me. "You wouldn't believe how many women he brings here."
Actually, I would. I offer the waiter my most polite smile. "Joel has quite the reputation."
The waiter chuckles. "He wines and dines 'em."
"Really? I took him more as a tequila man." I stare daggers at Joel.
The server takes in the tension as he sets our carafe of water and glasses on the table. "I'll give you a few more minutes to look at the menus."
"Thanks." My eyes stay fixed on Kit's
His eyes stay fixed on the white tablecloth.
The server leaves.
"Excuse me." I push myself up from the table. I need a minute away from this awful conversation.
Joel's serenity breaks. He looks worried. Terrified actually. His eyes fill with concern. His shoulders slump. I want to hate him for his attitude, but I can't.
He's looking out for his best friend. How can I hate him for that?
I slip through the lobby and hide out in the women's bathroom. Between the silver fixtures, the modern paintings on the walls, and the model types making sure their dresses are taped to their fake boobs, the place screams of money.
The model types look at me like I'm crazy. They laugh and whisper to each other on their way out of the bathroom.
I'm as good as alone.
But I don't feel any calmer.
Okay, I need to think here.
Joel won't rat us out.
As long as Mal doesn't know, it's okay.
No, it shouldn't matter. Kit and I are adults. If we want to fuck, date, whatever, that's our business.
I go to fix my makeup but my purse is at the table. Fine. I do what I can with my hair instead.
There. My heart is screaming but I look serene. I look like I belong here.
I can do this. I march to the lobby.
Only now Mal is leaning against the host's stand with a concerned look on his face.
He nods to the side door. "Come on, Piper. We have to talk."
