Chapter 49
Alex pulled into the Coconuts lot and took a calming Yoga breath, even though she had never stepped foot inside a Yoga studio.
Her two best friends were already settled at their familiar high top. After greetings, Suzy and Hope alternately darted questions.
“What’s wrong?” Suzy asked. “Are you okay?”
Hope asked, “Is this about your intern?”
Alex held up both hands. “I need a drink first.” She waved Gus over. “The usual but keep them coming.”
The server raised his eyebrows. “Got it.”
Alex turned toward her friends. “Thanks for coming here on such short notice. It means a—” Her voice wobbled. “Dammit.”
Suzy put her hand over Alex’s. “Let me take a wild guess. It’s about the cop.”
Hope placed her hand on top of theirs. “That’s my guess too.”
Alex made a face. “Since when are you two psychics?”
“I have mom radar. You haven’t talked about Tony as often. You couldn’t get enough of him last year.” Suzy’s tone changed. “Somehow, your relationship seems different now. Do you miss all the action?”
Gus appeared with a large, round tray holding three drinks and a bowl of cashews.
Suzy reached for her red wine. “You used to talk about him nonstop. Am I right? Is this about the cop?”
Alex nodded, fighting back tears. She was the tough one. She hated crying. “Yes.” She gulped her chardonnay.
“So, what’s changed?” Hope asked.
Alex twirled her wine glass and shrugged. “I knew he had baggage with sweet little Joey but—” Alex blew out her breath. “I met Tony’s ex today. She’s a royal bitch and that’s a compliment.”
Hope’s eyes widened. “What happened?”
Alex filled them in on the gory details as her friends sat riveted. “See what I mean? Total piece of work.”
Suzy wrinkled her nose. “That explains your new phone number. Sorry you’re dealing with this, hon. Blended families aren’t easy, but if the guy is worth it, you’ll make it work.”
“I’m glad I’m single,” Hope said.
“That really helps. Not.” Alex fiddled with a paper straw holder and tied it in a knot.
“I’m glad you still do that,” Hope said.
“Do what?” Alex asked.
“Tie things in knots. You’re adorable.”
Alex balled up the straw paper and tossed it across the table. “Damn OCD.”
Hope leaned forward. “Have you ever considered going to a therapist for it?”
Alex waved her hand as if shooing a fly. “God, no. I’m fine. It’s not that bad, counselor. I don’t wash my hands a hundred times a day or have bizarre rituals. Okay, I tie paper straw holders into knots and I don’t like germs. Big fucking deal.” She downed her wine and motioned to Gus for another. “Sorry, I’m on edge. Besides, this is about Tony and me. I thought I could handle this whole ex-wife thing. Now . . . I’m not so sure.”
Suzy stared at her vibrating phone. “It’s Ken. Darn it. I can’t stay long.” She locked eyes with Alex. “Date around. I mean it. I wanted to tell you that a year ago but knew you were head over heels for the guy. He may be sexy but he has a lot of baggage. And his profession is dangerous. You got caught up in it once and risked your own life.”
Alex shivered. “Don’t remind me.”
Suzy squeezed her friend’s hand. “I’m just saying life’s short. Don’t settle.”
Hope ate a handful of nuts. “You won’t have any trouble attracting anyone, unlike me.”
“Stop it. You’re beautiful,” Alex said.
Hope smiled. “Whatever. Remember that cute limo driver? There are tons of men out there.”
“Says my friend who doesn’t date,” Alex said.
Hope giggled. “I’m an expert in everything even if I don’t always practice what I preach.”
Suzy lowered her voice. “Take this the right way, hon. “Maybe the luster has worn off the cop. I think you enjoy the chase. No pun intended. And now that Tony’s available, well—”
“I hope I’m not that superficial.” Alex studied the inviting beach mural and pointed. “That’s what we need. A vacation on a beach. Just the three of us.”
“If only,” Suzy said. “I have weddings to plan, remember? And a husband.”
“And I have school,” Hope said.
“Adulting is hard.” Alex shook her head. “It’s always something, isn’t it? Sometimes I hate being a grown-up. Sorry I’m in my own little world. I asked you to meet me and I’m blabbing about my stupid, petty woes, especially after you’ve dealt with the horrific tornado aftermath, Hope. This is insignificant in comparison. Sorry.”
Hope smiled. “Don’t be. This is important and it’s your relationship and your life. We come here for friendapy, remember?”
“You don’t always have to be the life of the par—” Suzy’s face brightened. “Well, what do you know? How’s that for perfect timing?”