Chapter 50

“Given that you’re such an unworthy friend, could you finally tell me why you want me to see Frank tonight?”

“Not only Frank. Both of us. Tonight we’re going out, end of story.”

“Just like that. You just suddenly decided this?”

“Obviously. What’s life for if not constant and sudden surprises?”

“Are you drunk, Charlie?”

“No, but I’d like to drink tonight,” she answers, winking at me.

“And what if I’m busy?”

Charlie crosses her arms and stares at me for a long time, silent.

“What?” I ask her. Charlene always has the power to make me wonder if I’ve done something wrong.

“I’m just wondering if I should laugh at your joke. You, busy?”

* * * *

Not having a good enough excuse to resist Charlie’s sudden invite, I have no alternative but to honor her request. Later, when I see Frank, I wonder he fell victim to this same technique. But that man adores his wife and would do everything for her…even tolerate the love she seems to feel for me, for some strange reason.