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Go fuck yourself. Grant thinks he’s God’s gift to the planet because he works for the District Attorney’s office. Why I’ve stayed in this relationship for two years, I have no idea. I guess it’s better than being alone…
My sister Savannah owns Oak Park Pub, residing about a quarter-mile from my apartment. Her menu features some of the best comfort food I’ve ever had. George, one of the other bartenders, greets me as I walk into the building.
“Hey Kels! Are you working tonight?”
“Not unless you need me to.” I come in and help my sister out whenever she needs help and I’m available to.
“I think we’re okay right now, but it is Friday, so you never know.” He shrugs as he pours a glass of beer on tap. “What can I get you?” he asks without handing me a menu.
“Double bacon cheeseburger with onion rings. And can I also start with some pretzel bites and beer cheese dip?” I swear to God, my sister puts crack in that dip. I’ve asked her repeatedly to give me her recipe, but she keeps telling me she’s taking it to her grave. I think she’s afraid I won’t come in anymore if I can make it at home.
“Coming right up. Anything to drink?”
“My usual, please,” I smirk.
George makes the best Long Island Iced Tea I’ve ever had. It’s sure to hit the spot on a day like today.
“So, what did he do this time?” I hear Savannah’s voice as she plops down next to me.
“Who said he did anything?” I take a sip of the drink George just placed in front of me.
“It’s 4:30 on a Friday afternoon and you’re in here drinking and ordering dinner. Usually a good indicator.” She nudges my shoulder. “So? You want to talk about it?”
“He’s stuck at the office again. Apparently a ‘huge case’ came in today.” I use finger quotes and my mocking manly voice to emphasize my point. “So I figured I’d come see my favorite sister and have a yummy dinner that I don’t have to cook.”
“Yeah, right. I’m your only sister,” she chuckles. “But for the record, I’m always happy to see you.”
I’ve just finished my dinner and my second drink when the bar starts getting crowded. I can tell George is feeling overwhelmed, so I hop off of my stool and make my way around to the other side of the bar.
“I’ll take the left side, you take the right,” I tell George as I throw on an apron.
“Thanks!” He wipes some sweat from his brow and moves to the other side of the bar.
Between waitresses coming up for table orders and patrons coming to and from the bar, there is a steady flow of traffic for about three hours. For a night that started off pretty bleak, I’ll be walking out of here with a decent amount of money in tips. Finally, the bar settles down enough for me to take a breath.
“Didn’t expect to see you back there tonight,” I hear a familiar voice behind me.
“Joey Brooks. Haven’t you caused me enough trouble today?” I flash a smile as I turn around with a hand on my hip. Truth be told, that man can cause me trouble whenever he wants.
“I have — now I’m here to have a beer. Getting to see you is just a bonus.” He winks at me and I swear to God I melt a little on the inside.
“Guinness?” I’ve been bartending here long enough to know his order.
“You got it.” He points at me with a sly grin.
I pour him his beer and set it down in front of him. “Do you want food, too?”
“Nah, just the beer tonight. How come you’re not out with what’s-his-face?” He takes a sip of his beer, not taking his eyes off of me.
Joey knows Grant’s name, but he’s made his feelings about him very clear from the get-go. Every time I mention him, Joey rolls his eyes and makes a not-so-subtle comment about how I can do so much better. I’ve often wondered if he’s looking out for my best interests because he’s my friend, or if it’s because he’s harboring the same repressed feelings I am.
“Grant is stuck at the office tonight, and I didn’t feel like sitting at home by myself.”
“Well, I’m happy I get to see you tonight.” He takes another swig of his beer.
If I were talking to anyone else, I’d swear he was flirting with me. Lord knows I get at least one or two drunks hitting on me every time I’m behind the bar. But this is Joey — he’s my friend. I doubt he’s ever had any interest in me in that way. Has he?
Chapter 4
