My semi-drunk state was insisting I defend Gabe, the man I clearly knew nothing about. “It would take a lot to move past such a loss. Maybe now that some time has passed, he’ll be able to do things differently. And even find happiness with a woman in the future.” The liquor was humming through my body, and I realized it could maybe be me? Sure, it was a long shot, but possible. Right?
“Impossible.”
Her one-word answer punched me in the throat. “Well, maybe. We don’t know.”
Pam glided on her mauve lipstick. “I do. He’s said time and time again he will never be in a relationship again. He doesn’t want it.”
Katie giggled. “Well, he wants it, but with no strings attached.”
“You just never know about these things,” said Fireball.
Pam shook her head. “I’d normally agree, but he’s been involved with actresses and tons of stunning ladies, and he cuts them loose quickly. He told Andrew he’s upfront with any woman and respectful, but he won’t go down the relationship highway again. Ever. It’s hot and heavy hook-ups or nothing at all.”
Katie leaned in close. “I’ve heard he has magic hands.”
“Yes.” I blurted out. “I mean, yes. He looks like a guy who would know his way around the kitchen if you know what I’m saying.” An overzealous laugh oozed out my mouth as I nodded.
Dave magically appeared out of nowhere, or my vision had become slightly impaired.
“We’re heading out.”
I punched his arm. “I’m not leaving!” I grabbed Katie and hugged her. “I’m having the best night of my life, and it’s not ending yet.”
He chuckled. “First off, if this is the best night of your life I’m very sad for you. Secondly, we’re just going to Bangin’ Beers Bar.”
I squealed, and as hard as I tried, I could not not jump up and down while clapping like a five-year-old winning a bucket of Jelly Bellies. Did I mention I love Jelly Bellies? Stop drinking now.
I recall a car ride that consisted of laughing. Ed may have mooned a passing car, or I dreamed that. More laughing, and of course a lil glass of bubbly. I decided that was my last drink.
The Bangin’ Beer Bar had tables brimming with people and a stage where brave souls were singing their hearts out at karaoke. I, as the host with the most, had a table reserved for us right next to the stage.
We all found a chair. Well, Fern missed her chair and ended staring up at the ceiling while seven faces peered down at her and laughed to tears. After a few failed attempts to get up, Dave finally lifted her to the standing position.
Then she challenged him to arm wrestling match and made each one of us bet a dollar on her. As a good brother, he let her win. She did a fantastic celebratory jog around the bar, but all my buzzed eyes saw was the beautiful gal with perfect breasts. There was nobody like her in the world, I was certain of it.
Katie and Pam refused to leave the karaoke area and were doing their rendition of Pink Pony Club while the rest of the gang played beer pong in the corner, leaving a fairly safe opportunity for me to hang with Fern. I wanted to throw her against the wall and kiss off every bit of her lip-gloss, but instead we stood at the bar like normal people.
“I’m cutting myself off.” She laughed. “Oh shit, I’m slurring, Gabe. I’m done ordering drinks tonight.”
“Good plan.”
I put my hand next to hers on the bar. I may not be able to grab her, but our fingers touching seemed to be enough at that moment.
She giggled. “What did you say?”
“You said no more liquor. I said probably a good call.”
“I did?”
“Yup. Are you okay?”
Giggles fell out of her. “When I drink I sometimes don’t remember stuff. Like Dory from Finding Nemo. Do you know who Dory is?”
“Dory? I don’t think so.”
She leaned over. “In the Finding Nemo movie, Dory had short term memory loss, like me right now.”
“So alcohol gives you short term memory loss? This could work out nicely for me.” Down, boy.
