Page 8 of Party Animal
“I get it.It’s tough to start over.”
Paul added his two cents.“It can be overwhelming, especially when you leave unfinished business behind.”
Lee glared at Paul.It was the first time I’d seen him so angry.
Paul put his hands up in a sign of surrender.“Mea culpa.”
So Mr.Goody Two Shoes had a few skeletons in his closet.My curiosity went into overdrive but I knew better than to say anything then.I’d wait until I got Lee alone, hopefully later tonight.
Just then, Beau came over and broke the awkward silence.“How’s it going, Casey?
“I’m livin’ the dream.”
“Cool.I wanted to get a dance, but you were already gone.I did catch your shirt.”He handed it over.
“Thanks.Much appreciated.”I put it on.
Beau shifted his weight from one foot to the other.“How about hooking up later?”
“Not tonight.”
Beau looked disappointed.“I’m going east for Easter.I guess I’ll catch ya after the holiday.”
“Sure.”
Beau walked off and Lee raised a brow at me.
“What?”
“Nothing,” Lee said.“I’m just surprised you turned Beau down.”
I winked at Lee.“I have other plans.”I hope.
“Speaking of plans,” Paul said.“What’s cooking for Easter?”
“Ham, sweet potatoes… You know, the usual.”
Lee’s eyes popped.He looked like a cartoon character.“You cook?”
“What?You think my only talent is fucking?”
He winced.“I didn’t mean --”
“Casey hosts Easter dinner every year,” Paul broke in.“It’s our tradition.”
“I’m impressed,” Lee said.“My idea of cooking is scrambled eggs and toast.”
Finally, something about me impressed him.“You’re invited, Lee.If you don’t have other plans, that is.”
“No.I’d love to come.”
“Great.”I threw some money on the table.“Well, I think I’m ready to call it a night.”I slid out of the booth and looked at Lee.“Coming?”
He gave me a blank stare.
“You said you’d get me a cab.Remember.”
“Oh, sure.”Lee pulled out his cell.
