Page 12 of Sterling Fight

“Whiskey on the rocks, although I’m not really drinking it.” I’m simply holding the glass to give my hand something to do. Plus, the alcohol is a reminder of someone else I don’t want to think about, but a good reminder of where I need to be later.

When this day is over, I’ll have extra energy tonight in the ring.

“May I, then?” Genie is already reaching out for the short crystal glass and removing the drink from my hand. As the two ice cubes within clink, she chugs down the whiskey in one steady stream. Lowering the glass, a quiet sigh of relief escapes her wet lips, and suddenly I’m thinking about them.

If she’ll taste like the harsh alcohol. If she’ll allow me to lick it free from her lips.

I scrub my hand down my face, willing my thoughts to dissipate.

When I was in middle school—no, even before that—I had a crush on Genie. As I aged, the crush turned from innocent schoolboy interest to a burning desire to be closer to her.

And I’d fucked up.

“Did you know today is National Naked Garden Day?” Genie says, startling me both with the tenderness of her voice and the random information.

“I—”

“Yet everyone here is clothed.” She focuses on the room and grimaces while continuing to hold the empty glass, waving it outward to emphasize her observation. “But who would want to see Mrs. Chapman naked?”

I glance at the eighty-something, retired librarian and then quickly look away, not wanting that image in my head.

“Of course, I’m the only one in this custard-colored atrocity that even an empty donut wouldn’t desire.”

Genie glances down at herself while holding out the empty whiskey glass without looking in my direction. Our fingers brush as I take it from her, and a spark crackles over my skin where our hands touch. Genie’s head quickly turns in my direction. Did she feel it too?

But just as quickly, she looks away again and cups beneath those restricted breasts, shimmying a little, appearing to adjust those luscious swells. I glance away to avoid a glimpse of something I shouldn’t see.

She sighs, which sounds more frustrated than revealed by her adjustment.

“You look . . . pretty,” I mutter to the room. She looks uncomfortable and the dress appears a bit dated, but again, what do I know about women’s fashion.

“I look like Didi Conn in the role of Frenchie in Grease. And I feel like an overstuffed banana.” Genie tugs at the sides of her skirt, while mumbling, “If this is a size ten, I’m a fucking princess.”

I snort. She’s funny. Humor and I are not playmates, though, so I don’t have something witty to say in response. Then again, I don’t need to speak because Genie continues.

“It’s also Kentucky Derby Day, but is there a mint julep in sight?” She pauses without looking at me, waving outward toward the room. “No, there is not.” Her voice raises just a touch, and a couple nearby looks our direction.

“It’s also National Star Wars Day.”

“You certainly know a lot about this day.”

Genie huffs, continuing her streak. “The Force does not feel like it is with me today.”

This reference I understand, and I laugh. One short puff of air.

Genie turns toward me looking startled, like she’d momentarily forgotten I’m standing next to her despite her chatter. “I know a lot about dates because it’s my business.”

“Like asking me to find you one?” Maybe I’m misunderstanding her situation. I definitely did not like the assignment. If she’s looking for a date, I’m ruling out husband or boyfriend for her relationship status. She already knows my hours-old position. Single.

“No,” she chides with a smile. “As in, I make calendars. Quirky Girl Calendars.” She presses a hand to her chest like I should understand the reference.

“Anyway,” she continues. “I didn’t know you’d be here.”

I arch a brow. “I’m not supposed to be. But I thought I’d be reinforcements for you.” Maybe the Force will be with her after all.

“Why would I⁠—”

“Virginia, there you are.” Janet Hurley is a force. One I don’t particularly like. I’ve had occasional interactions with Janet because of the woman I’m no longer going to name having a connection to this pillar in our community. She’s one of the reasons I’m standing next to Genie.