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

a marriage there. They never considered

woman sitting close to Curtis inquired, “Mr. Curtis, you’re

wedding ring not shiny.

notice the band on his ring

arm, his shirt collar gaped slightly, revealing the edge

was

your wife like?” she ventured.

1/2

Chapter 2

grace, Curtis replied, “My

His

veneer of amusement that gave the illusion of affection.

any woman’s heart flutter. The

man fool you. You couldn’t find at woman in Stonebridge

who continued to smoke lazily, a playful smile on his

she realized he was toying

didn’t bother to hide his lack of

his drink, grabbed his jacket, and

looked up in surprise.

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

Comments ()

0/255