Page 77 of Playing the Game
While he does that, I scan the area. It’s pretty tame for happy hour on a Friday night, but I have a feeling that will change once everyone from work filters in.
I’m not worried about that, though. I’m concerned about seeing Jamison and Dorothy together. She made it clear the other night that they’re in a relationship.
That awareness is a steel boot to my ego, but I can’t say I’m surprised. Between Jamison nearly dying and Isabella’sbaby, there wasn’t much of a reason for Dorothy to stay with me. My heart is a tattered wreck.
The hostess shows us to a private room in the back. She slides open a glass door and dance music spills out. She waves us into the large, dimly lit room full of a bunch of twenty-something-year-olds. None of whom I recognize.
“Do you know anyone here, Jonah?”
“Sure. They’re mostly our employees.” He stops in an open area about twenty steps away from the bar. He glances my way. “I’m guessing from your question you don’t know anyone here.”
“I recognize some,” I lie.
“Yeah, sure you do.” He shakes his head. “You need to get out more.”
“I go out.”
“I don’t mean charity events and galas you’re mandated to attend.”
“They count.” I take a peek around the room, searching for Dorothy. “Besides, I just went to the Christmas ball and that wasn’t required.”
“No, but Dori was with you.” He pegs me with a knowing look. “Face it, brother. You wouldn’t be here if you knew she wasn’t coming.”
Melanie runs up to us and slaps me on the arm with the back of her hand. “Hunter, you didn’t need to upgrade us to this room, but I’m not going to lie. I’m so glad you did. This room is perfect. Thank you.”
“You’re welcome. When Dorothy told me you were having a going away party, I thought I could contribute to your celebration.” I slide my hands into my pockets and glance at Jonah.
“Well, thanks again.” She smiles at him. “Thanks for coming. I wasn’t sure you would.”
He nods and scoops her up in a hug. “I wouldn’t have missed it.”
Shock splatters over her face as he takes her in his arms. I’m just as surprised as she is. Jonah acted like I was torturing him by asking him to join us.
She says something near his ear that I can’t hear. They hold each other for a moment, then break apart. She glances between us, and an awkward silence settles.
Should I stand here or let them have a minute alone?
A nice-looking guy with dark hair joins us. “Mel, come over and meet my friend. He wants to say hi.”
“Sure thing. I’ll be there in a minute. I’m going to get a drink first.” She gestures to a server who just came back into the room.
The guy looks over at me and Jonah, and then back at Melanie. “Okay, but don’t be too long. I’m not sure how long he’s going to stay.”
“I’ll be right there. Now shoo.” She waves him off.
He hesitates but walks away, glancing back at us as he leaves.
Jonah gestures to the guy with a jerk of his chin as he addresses Melanie. “Don’t stay here on our account. Go meet his friend.”
“I’d like to stay and talk with you. I don’t give two shits about his friend.” She bumps her hip into his. “Lighten up or go home.”
He rolls his eyes, but his posture softens. “I’ll be better after a drink.”
“Yay! I knew you’d come around.” She beckons the server with the raise of her arm.
He rushes to us and takes our drink order. Another server walks by with some bacon-wrapped scallop appetizers. They smell delicious, so we scoop them up and empty the tray.
“Oh my god. These are to die for,” Mel says as she swallows her first one. “Why haven’t I seen these on the menu before?”
