I arrived at Tony’s with minutes to spare. I was a little nervous, mainly because this was my first anything with a man in years. Work typically consumed my days and nights, unless Paula could drag me away—kicking and screaming—to do something fun. My jeans were stiff with newness, and my long-sleeved shirt still smelled of the store where I’d bought it. I’d even gotten a haircut that afternoon.
Paula and Bevin came up to me at the bar. “Jim, you actually made it!” She gave me a big hug, and Bevin shook my hand.
“Nice to see you, man. You’re looking good—nothing new there,” he said.
“Back atcha.” Bevin was always a joy to be around. He was the perfect foil for Paula, and vice versa.
“And don’t act so surprised, little miss. I have been known to have a drink with you on occasion.”
“Yea
