“Then why are you telling me to get it?” Casey asked, parking her hands on her hips.

“That’s not what I’m laughing at. I’m laughing because it’s been more than three years since I had a first date with Matthew, and we didn’t even technically date. We went from him interviewing me for a story about my music to sleeping together,” her friend said. Jane was a rock star. Literally. She’d won a Grammy three years ago for a hit album, and had continued churning out top-notch, and top-selling tunes.

“You’re no help then,” Casey said, teasing, as she checked out her reflection in the store’s mirror. The dress hit her above the knees, and had a soft flare to the skirt. It was suggestive, but not inappropriate, and that’s what she liked about it.

“Just ask your BGF,” Jane offered.

Casey shot her a curious look. “Gay Best Friend?”

“No. That would be GBF. I mean BGF.” Jane snapped a few times, like she was trying to recall something. “You know, that guy Nate. Your Best Guy Friend.”

Casey felt a flush spread through her cheeks when Jane said his name. She didn’t know if it was due to the heat, or the secret almost-sex, or the fact that she still hadn’t heard from him. Odd, since they were supposed to be going to the ballpark in eight hours.

“Send him a pic and ask his opinion if you don’t believe me.”

She waved her hand to shut down that idea. “No. I don’t want to send him a picture,” she said.

“Why not? Isn’t that the point of a best guy friend?”

Jane was right. It was the point, or one of the points, but it was also what Casey should be doing instead of wondering why he hadn’t called or sent a picture. Normal. She had to keep things normal with Nate.

Casey handed her phone to Jane. “Take a picture of me.”

She struck a pose—a simple, friendly pose—and texted it to Nate.

Should I wear this on a date with Grant? Yes or no?

Then, because this is what she would have done if she weren’t sleeping with him, she called him.

He sounded pissed when he answered.

11

Washington D.C, Morning…

from: [email protected]

to: [email protected]

date: June 11, 6:04 AM

subject: Trying to reach you

Dear Nate,

I hope this note finds you well. I’m thrilled that everything seems to be going swimmingly at The Luxe. It makes me so happy to see you thriving in your career, but then I always knew that you would do great things. I tried to call you earlier this week but I haven’t heard back, so I’m emailing you at your work address. I hope you don’t mind. But there is something important that I need to discuss with you. I would greatly appreciate it if you could give me a ring. I’ll try you again soon.

All my best,

Joanna

12

Washington D.C, afternoon . . .