Page 96 of Center of Gravity

“Easy, old man, I have devious plans for you tonight.”

He laughed and went around to the other side of the table, throwing his suit jacket on one arm and picking up his briefcase.

“Let me know how the interview went as soon as you’re done.”

“Will do,” I said, watching as he walked out the door. Winslow trotted after him and sniffed dejectedly at the crack beneath as he was left behind.

“Come on, you little dictator. Help me finish this off.” I waved a bacon strip in the air and he came racing back to me.

* * *

Alex:attachment:

Rob:This is a chubby kid dancing. Does that mean you got the job?

Alex:attachment:

Rob:Now we’re talking. David Bowie is always the right choice.

Rob:attachment:

Alex:lol. We really need to work on your gif game

Rob:What’s wrong with a dancing cat?

Rob:I just called you. Answer your phone. I’m tired of typing. It’s annoying.

Alex:No. Awww…do you need reading glasses already?

Rob: But really. Call me back.

Alex:No. In honor of our “inauspicious” beginnings, we are only speaking via text until at least tonight.

But I answeredwhen my phone rang again, laughing into the receiver. “Yes, I got it.”

I could hear the smile in his voice as he replied, “I knew you would. When do you start?”

“I told them I needed to give Buffs two weeks’ notice, but I’ll go in for some training a few days before I start. And I’ll have time to get my stuff moved into your place.”

“Ourplace.”

“Mmm. I like the sound of that. Oh! I forgot another awesome thing. The gallery rents out their second floor as artists’ space and Mika, the owner, said I could move all my stuff into one of the stalls. I can’t wait to show you. It’s so awesome. Great light, plus other artists working.” I was practically vibrating with happiness and I couldn’t wait to see Rob and celebrate.

“We should do dinner or something.”

“I’ve got a better idea.” He couldn’t see the devious smile I gave to my phone, but maybe he could hear it in my voice, because his response came slightly wary.

“Yes?”

“You need to open up Grindr. Check your chats.”

“Oh God, I don’t even think I can remember my password on that thing.”

“It’s probably numbers$$cruncher1 like everything else of yours is.”

“What are you up to?”

“Open it.” I waited, grinning to myself. I liked my plan a whole hell of a lot and I hoped he’d go along with my attempt to redo our night in the club. This would be the upgraded version, wherewe bothgot a happy ending.