Besides, I know a thing or two about pursuing true dreams. I chase them every damn day and into the night too, working late on the blog, seeking out media opportunities, penning guest columns, and trying to find every opportunity to be the expert source. But now’s not the time to dwell on my goals or my needs.
“Tell me more about the songs the coolest hero ever in film sings . . .”
She rattles on about the production until the train reaches her stop. Then she says goodbye, and I’ll miss having her by my side at the next wedding.
No help for it. I definitely require a shot or two tonight. Looks like a stop at Gin Joint is in order.
When I exit the subway on Eighteenth Street, I turn down the block and find a text from my buddy Malone, sent about ten minutes ago.
Malone: Just finished a set at Gin Joint. Incidentally, I killed it. I’m here with Nick and Harper for a few if you want to join.
Well, sounds like he can read my mind. I tap out a reply, then stop when I spot him walking toward me, dressed in a tailored suit, his silk tie loosened a bit. Times like this, you’d be hard-pressed to believe he wears a white coat during the day as he examines cats and dogs. After hours, he looks every bit the part of the dapper lounge singer.
“If it isn’t the vet by day, Harry Connick Jr. by night.”
“I am something of a superhero. But then, don’t we all have our secret identities?”
“Isn’t that the truth?” I check my watch. “I guess you didn’t last long after you crooned your heart out to the crowd of . . . what was it, two people tonight?”
“Packed house, asshole. Packed house.”
“If you say so.”
He narrows his eyes. “And you wonder why I’m leaving.”
“Aww, you’re so sensitive. It’s sweet.” I gesture toward the end of the block. “I take it you’re calling it a night?”
“I am. But Nick and Harper are at Gin Joint, so you can catch up with them. The place is still hopping. No surprise. My sister is a maestro of the nightlife business.” He smiles, and there’s pride in that grin. Malone and Truly are closer than most siblings, maybe from being twins. Now and then, though, it sends a prickle of guilt down my neck because I’m keeping a secret from him. But if he knew what happened between Truly and me one snowy night six months ago, he likely wouldn’t be talking to me right now.
But since it’s never going to happen with his sister again, there’s nothing to worry about. “I’ll go catch up with the crew.”
“And I’ll see you tomorrow night at softball,” he says, then takes off, humming “Give My Regards to Broadway” as he goes. “Give my regards to Broadway. Remember me to Herald Square.”
“Stop, make it stop. It’s like a chainsaw mating with a jackhammer,” I shout.
“I’m sorry, did you say I’m making it rain? I thought so.” He waves dismissively and continues his number down the block.
I head to the bar. Drinks, friends, people to talk to where I can be myself? A spot where I don’t need to pretend I’m buddy-buddy with everyone just to make a buck? Sounds great. But the part I like best?
Sparring with Malone’s sister.
I mean, with Truly.
My good friend Truly.
That’s all she is. Not my best mate’s sister who I screwed one Saturday night when we were out of town.
But before I reach the bar, my phone bleats. It’s Chip, my client for next weekend. I answer right away, gliding into my practiced don’t-ever-let-on-there-are-problems tone. I’ll need it to avoid the thorny issue of whether I’m still bringing along a date as he’d requested.
5
From the pages of Truly’s Drink Recipe Book
Game Plan:
Gin
Blackberry
Home-brewed ginger ale
When business throws you a curveball, what do you do? When someone surprises you and wants something a little different than you expected, do you freak out and say, “OMG! I can’t do that”?
No way.
You woman up.
You figure it out.
You develop a new game plan.
If you don’t have one yet, it’s time for a little gin, a little home-brewed ginger ale, and some fresh-crushed blackberries. Have a sip, savor the effervescence, and delight in the fizz. Let yourself drift off as new plans start to form.
Soon enough, you’ll know what to do to get what you want.
6
