Tony leans back like he’s about to give sworn testimony.
“Because Chloe is forty-one. Divorced. Corporate ice queen.”
The table stills.
“…what?” I say.
“We hooked up,” Tony continues. “Boat. Blanket. Vibes.”
“And?” Mark asks.
“And nothing,” Tony says. “No feelings. No follow-up. She used me.”
Jake wheezes. “You got used?”
“She’s a cougar,” Tony insists. “A full-on cougar. I don’t even know how Sage knows her. I asked. Sage wouldn’t say. Just smiled like it was classified.”
“She’s 41?” Mark was stunned.
“Yup,” Tony swigs his beer, “loaded too— takes care of herself probably had a lot of help with her plastic surgeon.”
We’re all laughing again.
For a moment, it’s easy.
Laughter rolls around the table.
“I’m just saying,” Jake continues, “she’s always around. Never brings anyone.”
“Maybe she’s normal,” I say.
“That’s suspicious on its own,” Mark says.
Tony shuffles the deck. “I’ve got it. She’s married.”
“Oh, definitely,” Jake says. “Husband’s overseas. Military.”
“Or oil,” Mark adds.
“Engaged,” Tony says. “Italy. Big ring.”
“Sugar daddy,” someone throws in. “Private jet. NDA.”
I shake my head, laughing. “You guys are insane.”
Tony looks at me. “Are we?”
Cards slide. Chips click.
Jake tilts his head. “Serious question. You ever been to her place?”
I hesitate.
Just long enough.
I lean in, lowering my voice. “I’ve never seen it. She won’t let me go over.”
The table goes quiet.
