Page 29 of Scorned Beauty

“I thought you were younger.”

“You know, I’m at an age where I’m not sure if I should take that as a compliment or an insult.”

Phil shook his head and grinned into his beer. “Sorry.”

“You’re forgiven,” I deadpanned. “Where’s your sister now?”

“California…soooo, I might not see her and her family this Christmas since it’s time to hit quota for my job…”

“You said you were a sales agent…”

“Software.”

“Oh, ha…” I laughed. “I was thinking something more tangible.”

“Network security software.” He noted my wide-eyed expression, and it was his turn to laugh. “No, not the one that almost brought down the planet.”

“Geez, it’s so scary nowadays that our lives are dependent on computers.”

“How about you? Any siblings?” He probably knew by now I had no parents.

“Well, you’ve met Billy.” My brother at least helped me clean out Harriet’s apartment in time for Phil to move in.

“I haven’t seen him around.”

“Oh, he’s around.” I drained my martini. And I prayed Billy left me alone until Christmas. I was sure he was going to show up and ask for money. At Phil’s inquisitive eyes, I gave him more information just so I could get it off my chest. “Our dad left when I was fourteen. Billy took it hard. Mom took it harder. One could say she died of a broken heart.”

“Oh, wow, I’m so sorry.”

“I just want to put it out there since we’re in a sharing mood, but that’s as far as I’m willing to share.”

“I got it,” Phil said. “We can just gossip about our neighbors.”

I grinned at him. “Now you’re talking.”

My phone buzzed. It was Bianca.

Bianca

I’m feeling so guilty. Did you find someone to hang out with? I can come over later with wine I stole from Dad’s cellar.

Bianca…so sweet. I smiled and typed back.

Me

I’m fine. I have a hot guy with me.

You’re just trying to make me feel better.

I’m really fine.

I wish you had come over for Thanksgiving.

I told you I had to be with Harriet. Now hush, I’m being rude to Phil.

Phil? There really is a guy?

You really think I’m that pathetic to make one up?