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“You’re a guest?” Tatum asks me.
“A temporary guest.” I nod.
“Ah, where are you from sir Max, what wonderful adventures are you currently partaking on?” Sammie asks. This girl is odd.
“I actually live here, in San Diego. I have no real reason for staying here, other than I needed a change of scenery for a few days. And I have to admit, the scenery here is much nicer than my little brother walking around my house in his boxers.” I shrug.
“So you’re like, vacationing without traveling?” Monica innocently asks.
“Exactly, I’ve even called into work.” I lie, I really should call in.
“And what is it that you do for work Max?” Tatum asks.
“I build things; or rather I help build things. I’m in a mixture of architecture and engineering.”
“My friend is a Lego architect.” Monica says giggling as she brings her brightly colored drink to her lips.
The table, including myself laughs.
“Do you ladies mind if I join you?” I ask motioning to the empty high chair at the belly bar table behind me.
They make room for me as I pull a chair up beside Tatum my hand accidentally brushes against her thigh when I position the chair. She inhales and manages a smile as she pushes a strand of hair behind her ear.
“So ladies, you know a little about me, what about you? Are you visiting or from here and playing hooky too?”
“Monica is visiting from Phoenix. She’s actually staying here in the hotel and we’re celebrating our pre-summer.” Tatum smiles as she fondly looks at her sister.
“Tate got me a swanky room for my birthday weekend.” Now I know it’s closer to the weekend, score for picking up crumbs.
“And Monica, what is it that you do in Phoenix?” I ask making sure that I get in good with the birthday girl in hopes to impress her sister.
“I go to State out there and really that’s it. I’m a junior- I mean senior. I’ve got to get used to saying that now.” She hiccups.
“She’s a genius and works too hard. She needed a getaway and here she is.” Tatum smiles, obviously proud of her sister.
“And you Sammie?” I ask directing my attention in her direction.
“Tatum and I are both teachers, locally. I teach 2nd grade and she teaches Kindergarten.” Sammie takes my chance at grilling Tatum.
“Right on. Would you ladies like another drink, a celebratory birthday shot perhaps, Monica?” Man, I’m laying it on thick.
Monica briefly looks to Tatum and then back to me. She’s a little blurry and I see a faint 2nd version of her. I know I don’t need another drink, but I could care less and motion for a waitress.
“Ladies, please order whatever you would like.” I say as I turn to the waitress. “Please charge it to my room, thank you.” I smile.
Two hours later, I’m not sure how I’m able to function or communicate properly, but just as I’m completely wasted, so are the girls. I’ve bought at least 5 more rounds of drinks and we’re having a blast. I’ve zeroed in on Tatum several times and her friend Sammie has facilitated several times by joining Monica in the ladies room.
Monica and Sammie haven’t been gone a minute before I turn to Tatum.
“So, Tatum.” I start.
“So, Max?” She inclines her head.
“Are you seeing anyone, boyfriend or… girlfriend?” I smirk.
“No Max, I’m not. Kind of you to ask, usually it’s just assumed information.” She smiles.
“I prefer to not flirt with women who are taken. Bad for the ego.” I smile.
