Chapter 89
“I’m sorry.”
Liam shook his head and sat there. The music changed to another selection of EDM music. “No, I’m sorry. It’s not Jack’s fault, or mine. We’re just not good together anymore.”
Pad didn’t say anything. Instead he tapped his foot against the bar stool. “You’ll find someone, Liam. You’re a good guy. You’re funny. You’re even good looking.”
“Thanks but I’m not sure if good guys are in demand.” Liam bumped his thigh against Pad’s. “Did you just compliment me on my looks?”
“Maybe I did, maybe I didn’t Thanks for being not completely drunk to comprehend it.” Pad laughed.
Liam moved closer, inches from Pad, his eyes locked with Pad’s. “Did you know when we first met in MacDill I thought you were attractive?”
“Yeah?”
“I actually had a little crush on you.”
Pad laughed, not a large belly laugh but stifled one. “And yet you dated Jack.”
Liam swirled the drink in his hand, talking to it rather than Pad. “I thought he was more approachable. And you were also with Wayne at the time.”
Belinda placed her hands on both Pad and Liam’s shoulder. “Drinks? We’re going to the bar to order more.”
“I’ll take another Bud Light.”
“I’ll take a Jack and Coke.” Liam paused. He dug out his wallet and offered ten dollars to Belinda.
“Thanks, sweetie, “ said Belinda.
Tristan lingered. “Hey, Pad. Can you introduce me to Brayden?
“Sure,” replied Pad. “I could. So can he,” said Pad, who pointed at Liam. “Liam knows him, too.”
“Who?” asked Liam.
Pad rolled his eyes. “Wayne.”
Liam’s mouth formed an O. “Gotcha. Brain fart.”
Pad continued. “Yeah, we’ll introduce you to him.”
Tristan beamed. “Sweet!” He clapped his hands on Pad’s shoulder. “Okay, I’ll help Belinda grab our drinks. Watch our seats!”
Liam squeezed Pad’s shoulder. “Why don’t you ask me up later to go to your apartment?”
“You need a place to crash? What happened to your apartment downtown?”
“That’s not what I’m talking about.” Liam took Pad’s chin and brought his face closer.
Pad’s eyes widened but moved his jaw off Liam’s hand. “What are you doing?” He raised his voice as he continued. “How much have you had to drink?”
“Sorry, I’ve always…never mind.” Liam whispered in his ear. Pad looked away from Liam and gripped the bar stool. “Don’t be mad, Pad. I’m just kidding around.”
“Seriously, Liam? Why? Youwere almost my best man. And you are RJ’s best friend. I mean what am I supposed to feel?”
“I’ve always had this crush on you.”
Pad glared at Liam and shook his head. “You don’t like me, not in that way. What you see in me is someone who loves to stay at home, who would rather watch TV or check out a movie on Netflix, who would rather cook dinner for friends rather than go out. I’m the polar opposite of Jack. It’s the idea of having someone like me, Liam.” His voice rose but before he could say anything else, their conversation was interrupted.
“Here you are, one Bud Light, and one Jack and Coke,” said Tristan. Belinda handed Tristan his drink. “What are you guys talking about?”
“Nothing,” offered Liam.
“Hey, there he is!” shouted Tristan. “Please, please introduce me!”
Liam dropped his shoulders. “All right, let’s go over.”
Pad didn’t say anything as Tristan and Liam left to go to the side of the dance floor where Pad saw Wayne. Pad couldn’t help notice the resigned tone Liam had in his voice. Belinda slid into Liam’s chair and sipped her drink.
“Having fun, Pad?”
“Honestly? Not really. Not in the last few minutes anyway.”
“I figured. I told Jack you probably wouldn’t enjoy this club.”
“It’s not that.” Pad opened his mouth to add something more but thought better of it. He wanted to talk about something else. “Yeah, it’s not my kinda of thing anymore. Plus, I definitely wouldn’t pick this place.” He waved his arm in a sweep as he spoke. “Maybe somewhere where people can talk without shouting.”
Belinda nodded. “The only place like that was the Silver Cactus. Remember? It was a few blocks from the Track Shack in ViMi.”
“Yeah, I remember. It had like two pool tables and a dartboard and a jukebox that didn’t play too loud. Yeah, I’d much rather be there, not here. But we’re here now!” Pad shouted.
“Alrighty! So let’s toast!” She raised her glass, lined with salt on the rim.
Pad raised his bottle and clinked their libations. “Cheers!”
“Cheers! To Pad and RJ and a wonderful married life together!” Belinda moved forward and circled her arms around Pad and Pad returned the hug. “I really want the best for you, honey.”
“Thank you.”
The music stopped and the lights stopped swirling. Instead, the floodlights focused on the main stage. Pad saw Wayne step towards the stage and Miss V, the club’s resident drag queen, made some introductory announcements.