Page 37 of Fake Wife
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After returning Caitlin’s text message, we agree to meet at Dirty Martini’s. It’s a downtown bar within walking distance of Corbin’s building. Since we aren’t meeting until four, it gives me plenty of time to shake off the remaining dregs of my tequila hangover, shower, and change into a classy pair of black, wide-leg trousers with a silky peach tank top. I look more professional than trendy, the outfit being one of my favorites to wear to the library. After spending last night in a beautiful gown and shoes I’d never be able to afford on my own, wearing something of mine makes me feel more like myself.
I’ve messaged Corbin only once today, asking when he’ll be home, and it hurts he hasn’t yet texted me back. Clearly he’s busy, but his silence is nerve-racking and difficult to push out of my mind as I enter Dirty Martini’s.
The martini bar is small, but lovely with a plush velvet, royal blue L-shaped couch that spans the length of two of the walls as soon as I enter. It’s vintage and farmhouse chic with aged wooden tables and black metal chairs that sit facing the couches. I spot Caitlin almost immediately, sitting at a large semiprivate table near the back corner of the bar.
She’s on a gray high-back couch that looks as comfortable and warm as the blue couch up front. I’m immediately in love with this place. Quiet but upbeat jazz music filters through the speakers. Given that it’s only four o’clock on a Saturday afternoon in the summer, the place is half filled with customers, but not overly loud.
“Hi,” I say, greeting Caitlin as I reach the table she’s waved me to. I toss my purse onto the couch and am wrapped in her arms for a brief hug.
“Thanks for calling me today. I was worried last night I might have scared you. Trey says sometimes I come on too strong with new people.”
She did. She does. I think I like it about her. Caitlin seems to be the kind of person who lets everything hang out and has nothing to hide. My kind of people.
“No worries. How are you?”
I slide into the booth, taking a view that hides me from the entire restaurant.
“Good.” She flicks her red wavy hair off her shoulder and takes a sip of her martini. “I’ve already ordered. And don’t worry about paying, tonight’s dinner and drinks are on me.”
And confirm I’m the gold digger I’ve seen connected with my name this week? No thanks so much. “It’s okay. I can cover mine.”
“Sure you can, but I like you, and my dad always said I have more money than sense so I like to spend it on people.”
She really is a tiny little bulldozer. I figure I won’t be able to win an argument with her, so I don’t bother.
A waiter dressed in all black appears at our table and slides a coaster and glass of water in front of me. “Welcome to Dirty’s,” he says, looking at me with a professional yet slightly flirtatious smile. His blond hair is pulled back into a man bun, his stubble is several days old, yet I can still make out his full lips and tanned skin. He’s cute, handsome really, and I would guess about my age. “Can I get you something to drink or do you require a few more minutes?”
Ever since Caitlin suggested we meet here, I’ve known exactly what I want to order. “I’ll take a peartini please.”
The sweet martini is my favorite.
His grin widens into a full smile. “Very well. I’ll bring it right out to you. Caitlin, do you need anything else?”
She rocks her glass back and forth playfully. “I’m good, Jonas, thanks.”
He winks at her and his voice drops. “Let me know if you change your mind.”
As soon as his back is turned to us and he’s out of earshot, I lean across the table. “What was that about?”
She takes a sip of her drink and sets it down, her smile completely devilish. “Jonas and I go way back. He’s, well, let’s just say he’s a good friend when I’m feeling lonely.”
I press my lips together smiling at her as my gaze slides in his direction. He’s already heading back, martini glass and shaker on his tray, and he’s not looking at us, but is scanning the other guests in the bar. Yeah, he’s built, moves like a man in control of his body, and that hair and stubble…“Lucky girl,” I mutter.
“He’s fun. I met him here one night, took him home with me. That was two years ago.”
Two years and she hasn’t locked him down? And they both seem so comfortable and playful with each other. I’ve never enjoyed a friends-with-benefits-type relationship she’s suggesting, but that seems like a long time for hearts not to get attached. There has to be a story here. One I can’t wait to dive into. “You have good taste.”
“I know.” She grins. “That’s why I’m friends with Corbin and Trey. And speaking of…”
Her brows rise and her voice drifts off.
The timing is perfect as Jonas reaches our table. “Your peartini, Caitlin’s pretty friend. Anything else?”
He’s a flirt, good at it, which I imagine drastically helps him with his tips. If his flirting bothers Caitlin, she doesn’t show it. “Keep the drinks filled, please, Jonas. Oh, and bring us the cheese and seafood plates as well as the bruschetta.”
“Your wish is my command, gorgeous.” He gives us both a slight bow, mischief glimmering in his blue eyes. He taps the table once before quickly moving to another.
