The gang gathered to welcome Curtis home in the private lounge of an exclusive members’ club and the atmosphere was electric. With a grin, Devin uncorked a bottle of Hennessy Paradis, a top-shelf cognac that was a century’s worth of limited release and not even available in stores.

This was a cherished possession of Devin’s grandfather, Hubert Perez. He himself could never bring himself to drink it, yet his adoring grandson had whisked it away to celebrate his best friend’s comeback..

“Are you sticking around this time?” Devin asked, getting Curtis a generous glass.

Curtis leaned back on the plush sofa, a picture of nonchalance. “Do you want me to leave?”

“Are you kidding? I’ve been counting the days until you got back!”

Someone in the group teased, “Devin’s been pining for you more than your wife, man.”

Devin shot back with a playful kick. “Shut it, will you?”

Glass in hand, Curtis patted Devin on the back of the head. “Missing me, huh? What, got an itch only I can scratch?”

“Please, my grandfather hasn’t stopped riding me since you’ve been gone,” Devin retorted. “Life’s been dull without you, brother.”

The conversation then turned to Curtis’ wife. “Speaking of, where’s your wife tonight?”

Devin answered with a dismissive wave, “We’re having a boys’ night. She’d only rain on parade.”

Our

never considered

sensing an opportunity, a woman sitting close to Curtis inquired,

drag from his cigarette. “Is my wedding ring not shiny. enough for you?” he asked

notice the band on

collar gaped slightly, revealing the edge of

and was curious about

your wife like?” she ventured.

1/2

Chapter 2

effortless grace, Curtis

His

the illusion

make any woman’s heart flutter. The

illusion. “Don’t let this man fool you. You couldn’t find

a playful smile

she realized he

bother to hide his lack of interest. He

his drink, grabbed his

glass, Devin looked up in surprise. “You’re leaving already?”

The Novel will be updated daily. Come back and continue reading tomorrow, everyone!

Comments ()

0/255