Chapter 48

Thankfully, the next day, being Monday Brad had off. Wendy needed time to decide how she would act around him now. Her attitude toward him changed, and she wasn’t sure how it might impact how she behaved or looked at him, especially if she sat right in front of him. She now realized the warmth he showed when he sang didn’t exist. He not only sang to the audience, but he acted for them. She would continue to enjoy his voice, but less frequently. Wendy felt no desire to be in bed with him. She wondered why some of the women he bedded continued to want him. Did he perform differently for them, or did they just want to brag such a talented and sexy guy wanted them? Wendy hadn’t desired him for just his talent and looks but for a man she hoped would appreciate and care about her.

At work it would be hard to tell Carol the truth. Wendy felt like a fool for having been wrapped up in him for so long and now having to tell Carol how disappointing he performed, it embarrassed her.

“So, tell me,” Carol insisted almost immediately after Wendy’s entrance.

“Let me get settled,” Wendy said as she went into her office, brooding about what to say.

Carol followed her in. “Okay, you’re settled, so talk.”

Wendy stepped out of the office and Carol followed. They stood behind the counter as they faced each other. “It wasn’t good. His idea of intimacy is do it and be done. It’s like he added another notch on his belt.”

Carol patted Wendy on the shoulder. “I’m so sorry. I know how long you’ve wanted to be with him.”

“Thank you. It’s a lesson learned. I think I loved what he stood for-talent and looks. I wanted to be part of his adoring groupie…how stupid.”

“I’m proud that you’re able to put it in perspective.”

“Thanks. Do you ever hang out in bars?”

“No, the bar scene isn’t me.”

A long time ago Wendy remembered having the same thoughts.

Wendy and Carol took some time between customers to discuss the Open House. They talked about the refreshments and where they could fit small benches along the paths so people could sit and eat.

“We can put bridge chairs in the wider paths and set up the TV trays and chairs by the stream,” Wendy decided. “Could you work out a menu with a caterer?”

“I’ll get a detailed plan down.”

“Great, thanks.”

They put a flyer together to post in grocery stores and other places and some for the counter where they could point them out to customers. The ad would mention the new plant varieties available starting the day of the Open House. Enticing old customers, as well as new ones, was the plan.

She wanted to talk to Cindy about Brad but didn’t know how it might affect their relationship. Wendy wanted to know what Cindy thought of his performances. Maybe Brad was great with her. Maybe his sexual interactions were never the same. Wendy didn’t know how to ask Cindy, or should she just let it go and push her disappointment deep inside? She couldn’t decide. Cindy might be furious if Wendy told her what happened.

At night she made herself an omelet for dinner and later in her study she lit up a joint. She stared at the phone and put the weed out. What could she say to Cindy? She stood up and walked around the house trying to get the nerve to call her. She finally stopped, hesitated and dialed her number.

“Hey, glad you called I was going to ask you about going to a new place tomorrow night for dinner and entertainment.”

“Sounds good, but first I need to talk to you and ask you something. May I come over?”

“Now?”

“Yes.”

“Sure.”

“See you in a few.”

They hung up and Wendy drove the fifteen minutes to Cindy’s. She knew telling Cindy would be awkward, strange, and difficult. But, since Cindy didn’t care about Brad anymore, she hoped she’d be okay with Wendy’s news.

“So, what’s going on?” Cindy asked as soon as Wendy came in.