It felt more intimate.
Especially as we walked over with his hand on me, all of their eyes on mine as we approached the table.
“This is Jo,” Jenner said to the group.
As he voiced each of their names, I recited it in my head and shook their hand, trying to memorize who they were. And when I released Jack’s fingers, the last of the group, I said, “It’s nice to meet you all.” I gave them a wave and continued, “These are my girls. This is Monica, Lex, and Courtney.” I pointed at each one.
“Ladies, come sit,” Ford said, and he got up from his seat, calling the waitress over to get more chairs.
Dominick and Brett rose as well.
My friends were reluctant to take their places, but when the boys insisted, they caved.
Jenner sat in the only empty chair, the one he’d given up to meet us at the
