Something about that isn’t right. She was drinking at lunch, kept going when she went to meet Jonathan, didn’t appear in a photo herself. Because she was too drunk? She had a kindergarten-teacher reputation to uphold. Or maybe something happened. Did they have a fight? Maybe whatever happened that night sent her into hiding the following day. Maybe the night was not a night worth writing about for whatever reason …
Ren put down the glass of wine.
She texted Janine. FOMO. Fear of Missing Out.
She got a text right back: You know where to find me. Robbie left early on. Everett just gone . . .
Four hours later, Ren was leaning into the mirror in the ladies’ room of Gaffney’s, her makeup bag open on the wet tiles.
Why can’t there be raised shelves away from the sinks? How hard can that be, people?
Janine arrived, passing two girls who had been taking selfies together before they left.
‘I’m so old,’ said Ren. ‘The idea of constantly updating social media when I’m trying to get hammered is hellish. I hate even being around people who do that. Relax, everyone. And get the fuck out of my face.’
‘I know,’ said Janine. ‘But at least it helps us do our job … suckers!’
‘Speaking of which – Hope Coulson was out two weeks before she went missing, then thirty-six hours disappeared into a black social media hole, which was not her style. I’m just wondering, did something happen? And we know I don’t like to wonder for too long. I like to go out there and find the fuck out.’ She ran her finger under each eye to tidy up her mascara. ‘I need to speak with Briar again.’
‘You heard he’s lawyered up, though …’
Ren turned to her.
‘Oh, I know that face,’ said Janine. ‘Don’t go there without the lawyer.’
‘I just have a couple of tiny questions …’
‘Oh, they’re cool with the tiny ones … phew.’
‘But I don’t think he’s a suspect,’ said Ren.
‘Not the point. Don’t risk it. Gary will go apeshit. And speaking of risking shit, whatever you’re about to do here, don’t.’
‘I was about to put some lip gloss on,’ said Ren. She raised her eyebrows and smiled.
‘You know what I mean,’ said Janine. ‘I don’t know what’s going on with you and that guy out there, but …’
‘I’m fine,’ said Ren. ‘Don’t worry. I have zero interest in him.’
‘Hmm. I’m not sure he feels the same way.’
‘That’s his problem.’
Janine studied her in the mirror.
‘Honestly, I’m fine,’ said Ren. ‘The guy’s not even drinking.’
‘I don’t think a man needs to be drinking to make a move on you,’ said Janine. She paused. ‘Anyhoo, I think I’m about ready to call it a night.’
‘Noooo,’ said Ren.
Janine nodded. ‘I’m exhausted. Do you mind?’
‘No, but I’m wiiide awake – do you mind if I stay?’
‘Not at all,’ said Janine. ‘I’ll see you back at the ranch.’ She hugged Ren, and pulled back. ‘I know Gary’s not actually here, but you seem to be in his crosshairs. I’m not sure it’s to do with all this partying, but—’
‘Fuck Gary!’
Ren was dancing hard and fast, bright-eyed and soaring, wild of heart and intentions. The people around her were happy and free and smiling and a reflection of her. They moved together, buoyant and powerful. Two guys joined her on the dance floor – one in front, one behind.
I may be old enough to be the front guy’s mother. He has no clue. Or does he?
He was smiling at her with his gorgeous, perfect teeth.
Ren smiled back.
Boom-boom-BOOM. Boom-boom-BOOM. Boom-boom-BOOOOOM.
I wonder what Ben would make of this? I mean, it’s all perfectly innocent, but still. Would I like to see him in a girl sandwich? I don’t know … Yes you do. You’d kill him.
Ren backed into the other guy, and the front guy moved forward. They all moved with instinctive rhythm.
‘We’re good at this!’ said Ren.
‘We are!’ said the front guy.
She could feel the back guy’s breath on her neck.
Ew. Garlic stranger breath.
She squeezed her way out from between them. ‘Thank you, gentle men!’
‘Don’t go!’ said one.
‘Stay!’ said the other.
‘Bar!’ said Ren. I’m way too sober for these shenanigans. I’ve sweated out the alcohol.
Half an hour later, Ren was back with her original group of strange men. Her phone buzzed in her purse. She took it out.
It was a text from Janine. She could barely focus on it.
I can’t find the key! Stranded outside apartment …!
Shitttt. I don’t want to leeeave. Fuck. Maybe Janine can go back to her house. Don’t be an asshole.
‘Excuse me, gentle men,’ said Ren. ‘I’m going to have to go.’
‘What? Why?’ said one of them.
‘My friend is locked out of my apartment.’
‘Is it far?’ said the guy.
‘Ten minutes in a cab,’ said Ren.
‘I can drive you,’ he said. ‘I haven’t been drinking.’
Ren felt a small spike of sobriety. He could be a psycho. Lots of psychos don’t drink or do drugs because they don’t want to lose control. Jesus. Worst-Case Scenario Girl strikes again.
‘That means I can drive you back here after,’ said the guy. ‘Keep the party going!’
I hate that expression. ‘OK! That’s an excellent idea! What’s your name again?’
‘JD.’
‘Thank you, JD!’
They pushed through the hot, crowded bar onto the street. The night was warm. There was only a gentle breeze, but it hit her like a slap.
Whoa. My head.
She called Janine. She picked up right away.
‘Are you OK?’ said Ren.
‘Yes,’ said Janine.
‘I’m on my way,’ said Ren. ‘One of the guys is giving me a ride.’
‘What?’ said Janine. ‘Get a cab. Who is he? Has he been drinking?’
‘Nope,’ said Ren. ‘He’s tonight’s designated driver. With a name like JD that’s a bit cruel, isn’t it?’
JD laughed. He unlocked the