Chapter 22

"No fair that I had to mind the store while you partied like that," Alix said.

"Next time I’ll trade you," Jess said. "But, seriously, thank you for everything you do. I think you deserve a bonus. You know what? I know you do."

Jess suddenly got up from the table and disappeared into the bedroom. Two minutes later, she came back with a banded brick of hundred-dollar bills and tossed it to Alix.

"A little bonus," Jess said. "I couldn’t do this without you, Alix. You’re amazing. I’m so grateful to Gloria for introducing us."

"Shit, boss," Alix said. "I’ll babysit for you anytime!"

We all laughed. Nicole was still withdrawn. I knew what Jess and Alix were doing. They were showing off, strutting like peacocks. They wanted Nicole to feel like an outsider. It worked. They let her stew for a little while longer while we chatted and caught up. Finally, Jess turned her attention to her.