Old Man and the Sea (part one)

     The days after the wedding were a haze. Just one boring day at work after the other.  Evelyn liked her job, but it definitely wasn't anything exciting.  It wasn't anything she really wanted to do.  An English major doing tech support seemed a bit too ironic or something.  She missed working for the publisher, but being a lowly assistant with no hopes of moving up was not making her happy or paying all the bills.  So she took a job in a call center taking calls and helping people fix their issues.  While she did her job well, it was just a job. However, the job was a one one, and paid her well.  She landed a good job with a great company, and she shouldn't complain.
     Sasha and Lauren were all over her about the "Old Guy."  They wanted to know details, if they'd talked, what was going to happen and the like.  Evelyn was trying to play it cool, but she was excited about her new prospect. They'd talked on the phone once since the wedding and planned on going to dinner Saturday night.  He was talking her to a very upscale restaurant, so a lot of shopping had to be done. Plus a full scale girly primping session; hair, nails, shaving, and the works!  Evelyn rarely got really excited about a guy. After so many anti-climactic endings of wishy-washy romances, she just didn't see the point in getting all worked up about something that was inevitably going to end.  There was something about this guy, though, that got to her.  She was infatuated with him more than she'd been with a guy in a long time. She even dared to day dream about their future together.  She was in one such dream when she was shaken out by her manager.

Ryan

Hey, how was your weekend!?

Evelyn

Oh, hey it was great!  

Ryan

You had that wedding, right?  Your dad's?  How did it go?

Evelyn

It was good. Everything went well.  Thanks for asking. How was your weekend?

Ryan

Yeah, it was good.  Nothing special.  I know it was a couple of days ago. I can't believe it's Wednesday already!  This week is flying!

Evelyn

Yeah, it totally is.  I'm pretty glad though. That's usually not a bad thing.

Ryan

Totally.  Well, nothing really to report. We hadn't gotten a chance to talk this week, so I just wanted to say hey and see how things are going. 

Evelyn

Well, hey. And things are great!

Ryan

Cool.  Let me know if you need anything

Evelyn

Will do!

     Ryan was as cool as a boss could be.  Young, fun, smart, and fair.  Not to mention cute, but Evelyn blocked that fact out of her head as much as she could. He was unconventionally attractive, which is what attracted Evelyn to him.  He has the Indy rocker look going for him: tattoos, red hair, glasses, and was one of the few guys who can really pull off skinny jeans.  They bordered on flirting from time to time, but neither would ever act on it. Sasha constantly gave Evelyn a hard time about him.  She, of course, promotes, all kinds of mayhem, and was currently on her way to Evelyn's desk to promote some more.

Sasha

So... big date... old guy....

Evelyn

Will you stop with the "Old Guy" stuff?  He's got a name and you know what it is.

Sasha

Ok, ok. Grant. I'm just excited for you.  You haven't had a date in a while.

Evelyn

Yes, true.  And thanks so much for pointing it out!

Sasha

Haha, sorry!  I'm trying to be supportive!  You need some hot action in your life.  And speaking of hot action, Ry Ry is looking very strapping today...

Evelyn

Are you sure you're gay?

Sasha

(laughing) Yes, I'm sure. But I can appreciate a good looking guy when I see one.  Especially one who's interested in my friend.

Evelyn

He's NOT interested. He's just nice.

Sasha

If you say so....

Evelyn

Did you come over here to give me a hard time and get me in trouble, or did you have anything constructive to say?

Sasha

Yeah, you like this guy.  You're so sensitive! 

Evelyn

Ok, yes, I like Grant. But I can't get too excited.  You know my track record.  These things don't go well for me.

Sasha

Well, don't blow this one too fast.  I need some boat time this summer!

Evelyn

Ok fine, I see where your interests lie.  Now get out of here, I have work to do!

     Sasha sauntered off, leaving Evelyn to finish her day and head straight to the mall.  She had to look amazing for her date.  She hated the mall with a passion, especially when she didn't have a clue what she was looking for, but she had to go.  It's not that she didn't like shopping.  She loved it, but she has expensive tastes and can't afford most of the things she wants. She giggled to herself as she thought about it.  What a silly problem to have. 

     The trip to the mall ended up as well as it could have with her finding something that didn't make her look like a whale.  Well, more of a whale. As she placed her bags on her bed she realized she missed a few calls. Her mother had called for the third time, so she knew she had to call back. Her old boss, Roxie, who was also a great friend of hers called, and Lauren.  Plus, she'd been meaning to call Billie and Noelle to catch up.  It was so hard being far away from her family and friends back home, but the move to California was doing wonders for her.  The sun, beach, job, and friends down there really helped her get through a rough patch.  However, she still missed them terribly and wished she could be nearer.  She needed to call them all back but felt that calling was so overwhelming.  It was so hard to update people about every detail of your life, and to hear about there's. The crazy thing is that if she was better at keeping in touch, she wouldn't have so much to say, hence it wouldn't be as hard. However, she was crappy at keeping in touch.
     She decided that she needed to call her mom at least, and Roxie. Roxie usually texted, so it was strange that she actually called. The call to her would be shorter, so she started to call Roxie first, when the phone rung. It was Grant. Her heart started pounding. She answered the phone.

Evelyn

Hello.

Grant

Hey there.  How are you?

Evelyn

Good. (a little too excited) Good. How are you doing?

Grant

Excellent.  The week is going by too slowly if you ask me.  

Evelyn

I'd have to agree with that statement. 

Grant

Do you have something amazing to wear?

Evelyn

Dudes aren't supposed to ask their date about their outfit.  There's way to much stress about it anyway.  Unless of course, you're gay. Then you can ask.

Grant

Well, definitely not gay, but not a DUDE either.  I think I prefer the term gentleman....

Evelyn

That makes you sound old.  You at least need to be a guy.

Grant

(laughs) OK, guy it is! So, I was calling to ask you something, not clothing related actually.

Evelyn

Ok....

Grant

Are you allergic or opposed to eating seafood or meat? I'm ordering a pre-fixe menu and didn't want to make any mistakes. 

Evelyn

Nope, I'm all good. You could have texted me that, you know. 

Grant

Yes I know.  But I'm old school. And besides, if I had sent you a text I wouldn't have been able to hear your amazing voice. 

Evelyn

True, true! (she said, jokingly)

Grant

Well, I don't want to spoil any potential conversation we're going to have on Saturday, so I will let you go. 

Evelyn

OK then, sounds good. I only have a few good topics anyway, so very good call.

Grant

(laughing) Alright then, dear, I will let you get back to picking out your outfit!

Evelyn

Hahaha! Ok.  See you Saturday. 

Grant

See you Saturday. 

     Evelyn hung up with a smile on her face.  She hadn't been this giddy in a while. Then she smile immediately faded and she began to panic.  What if it didn't work?  What if he didn't like her? What if she screwed things up.... again!!?  Just as she was about to call her mom, she got a text from Lauren. Lauren had this creepy way of being there for Evelyn when she needed her most, without any prompt. Her message asked how Evelyn was doing, and asked if she found an outfit. Evelyn texted back that she found an outfit. but that she was panicking now. Lauren sent her a text telling her that she needed to calm down and that there was nothing to worry about.  She'd go to dinner and be charming, and if it led to another date, super, and if not oh well. If only Evelyn's brain was that rational.  She knew that Lauren was right, but her reactions to emotional situations were not as reasonable as other people's. She reacted hard and her recovery time was not as quick as it should be, especially considering how much she'd already been through.  She figured, that after all the drama she'd experienced, she should be better at handling things.  But she wasn't.  At least that's what she thought

     After obsessing over every possibility of the date in her head and accessorizing her outfit, she decided to call it a night with some wine and watch something mindless on Netflix. She'd get around to calling everyone and catching up, but tonight she needed to chill.  She'd call everyone the next day, or sometime soon. Thursday and Friday came and went with nothing to report, but Friday night was almost impossible to bear. Saturday afternoon, she started to get ready.  Her date wasn't for a few hours, but it would take her that long to get ready.  By the time she needed to leave, she looked amazing. She was ready.
     Grant was picking her up.  Old school indeed, she thought, as she waited. She hadn't been "picked up" for a date in a long time. It was nice, actually, but nerve-wracking. Then, a knock.

Evelyn

Just a minute! (she opened the door)

Grant

 Well hello there!

Evelyn

WOW, flowers!?

Grant

Don't guys give flowers anymore?

Evelyn

Oh, I'm sure they do, just not to me!  (laughs) Come in, I'll just be a second.

Grant

Okey dokey!

     Grant looked great. Nice slacks and a gray shirt. His hair had been recently cut, and he smelled amazing. Evelyn tried hard to conceal her excitement. He was doing the same.  Evelyn was wearing a simple purple sleeveless empire-waist dress that accented her top, and fell slightly above her knee.  Her silver heels and accessories magically accented Grant's ensemble perfectly.  She was overjoyed. 

Grant

You look amazing!

Evelyn

Thanks!  So you approve of the outfit?

      

  Grant

Yes, completely!  We kind of match!  It's meant to be.

Evelyn

Guess so!  You ready to go?

Grant

Yup, let's do this!

     She followed Grant down to his car (a silver BMW), and he opened the door for her.  She was blushing, but trying to remain calm. As they drove to the restaurant they engaged in small talk about the car, then the drive, and each other.  The restaurant had amazing ambiance, and the food and service was just as wonderful. Evelyn's nerves were calmed by their smooth and easy conversation.  He was smart and funny, and she was really, REALLY wondering what he was doing with her. After dinner they took a walk a long the embarcadero and looked at the lights of the city.  It was a warm night, comforted by a cool breeze, and a few of the best and brightest stars could be seen peering through the city's haze. 

Evelyn

So, why are you still single?

Grant

You're assuming it's a "still."

Evelyn

Oh, were you married?

Grant

Once. She was wonderful.  I was an asshole.  I thought I could do better.  So I cheated, and ruined it. And she's re-married with three kids.

Evelyn

Wow. I'm sorry?

Grant

Haha! No need to be sorry. It was my mistake to cheat, but not to get out of the relationship.  And she deserves to be happy. So, I'm glad she found that. 

Evelyn

So, you just never found someone to marry?

Grant

I never wanted to.  I like being single. And I've found that I have a certain penchant for dating younger women.  The only down side to that is that they eventually want to get married and have kids, and that's just something that's not in the cards for me.  

Evelyn

Ever?

Grant

Ever.

Evelyn

I don't want this to sound, well, I don't know how it will sound, but why do you date younger women, then>

Grant

(let's out a big laugh) Very direct!  I love that about you!  It's a good question, though.  (pauses) I think  it's because there's a certain spirit that younger women have that I find attractive.  They're alive, full of hope and ambition.  I find that sexy.  They're not jaded yet.

Evelyn

Well, in that case, what are you doing with me!? (she was halk-joking)

Grant

You're not jaded.  Not really. You've definitely been through some difficult times.  I can tell that.  You have a maturity about you that only comes with experience. Though you try to hide behind pessimism, you're an idealist.  A dreamer.  And THAT is sexy. 

Evelyn

(long pause) Well, I can't argue with that. 

Grant

And here I thought you could argue with everything!

     They both laughed as Grant put his arm around her and they started walking back to the car. She knew there had to be a catch to the guy, but she didn't really want to get married and have kids, so being with him seemed perfect.  There was this fear in the back of her head that he didn't even really want to be with anyone for a long period of time, but that didn't matter now.  She was smitten and in love with this great evening they were having. So, she let it go.  On the drive home, their conversations didn't end or have awkward pauses.  They just naturally ebbed and flowed, and as they got closer to her place, she didn't want them to end. When they reached her complex, he told her to stay in the car, so he could open her door.  She chuckled because she wasn't used to any thing like this.  She felt like she was in a old movie. He walked her to her door, and while she very much wanted to invite him in, she decided that no matter how charming he was, she wouldn't do it.

Evelyn

So, here we are...

Grant

Yes, here we are.  (pauses)  I would try to get inside, but I have a feeling that wouldn't be the best idea.

Evelyn

I have a lot to do tomorrow, but it was a really wonderful night.  I had an amazing time.

Grant

As did I. (leans in for a kiss)

Evelyn

(after the kiss) "You kiss by the book."

Grant

You're such a nerd.  I can't believe you just quoted Shakespeare!

Evelyn

You got the reference, so clearly you're a nerd too!

Grant

(laughing)  Touche! Well, Nerd, can I see you again?

Evelyn

Absolutely.

Grant

Great.  It's supposed to be an amazing weekend coming up, weather-wise. Do you want to come out on my boat?

Evelyn

Absolutely!

Grant

Ok, then, I'll call you later in the week and we can plan.  Until then...

Evelyn

Until then....

     Evelyn floated in to her apartment, and rested against her door.  She picked up her kitty, Pearl, and danced around the room like an idiot until her caught herself and promptly stopped. She didn't want to get too carried away; happiness always freaked her out.  She just wondered when the happiness would end and be devastated again. But this time, she wasn't going to do that, but she wasn't going to get all worked up either. Cool, calm, and patient is what she was going to be, though she was never really any of those things. 

     The rest of the weekend was spent clearning, watching bad TV, and gossipping via text about the date.  It had gone so well, Evelyn was nervous.  She kept thinking, "This can't be happening to me.  Nothing this good even happens to me."  Monday came and back at work, Lauren and Sasha wasted no time getting more details and finding out if Mr. Perfect had called/texted Evelyn yet. Evelyn brushed them off and pretended that she didn't care, but she was totally excited for him to call again.  Just as she was about to get in to the details with the girls, Ryan drifted by. 

 

 

Ryan

Ladies!  How was the weekend?

 

Sasha

Great, Ry, how was yours?

 

Ryan

Good. Great. Nothing too special, but good. Did you guys hear we hired a new training class?  They'll be starting training next week and then be on the floor the following week.

 

Evelyn

Yeah, I heard that!  I hope we got a good crop!

 

Ryan

Well, I helped interview a few of them, so I think they're going to be great!

 

Lauren

Well, I'm sure they will be. Sash, we should probaly get back....

 

Sahsa

Yeah, break is alomst over. See you guys soon!

 

Ryan/ Evelyn

See ya! Bye!

 

 

Ryan

Your girls seem to be over here a lot lately.

 

Evelyn

Is that a problem?

 

Ryan

(laughing) No, no!  It's totally cool!  I was just wondering if there was anything interesting going on or not?

 

Evelyn

Nope, not really. They're just being nosy.

 

Ryan

Ahhh.... so there's something to be nosy about?

 

Evelyn

Well, if you find my dating life interesting, then I suppose so. But not really.  I guess I'm just the most interesting in our crew at the moment.

 

Ryan

A-ha!

 

Evelyn

Well, looks like I'll get back to it!

 

Ryan

Ok, then see you later! Oh, we'll probably need you to shadow some of the newbies when they get on the floor.  Is that cool?

 

Evelyn

Totally!  Just let me know!

 

Ryan

Will do.

 

     Ryan lingered a moment then continued on to his desk.  Evelyn wasn't really ever sure if Ryan was flirting with her, or just being nice.  In fact, she could rarely tell the difference. hanks god Grant was obvious. Grant, she got giddy just saying his name in her head. She really needed to chill out. They had their boat date coming up this weekend and she wanted to appear as if she didn't care. Well, not not care, but she didn't want him to know how excited she was. She didn't want to let on the wedding plans she already had imagined, and the exotic sailing honeymoon she mentally charted. It didn't mean anything. Girls do that crap all the time. It's freaking hormonal, and highly irritating. 

    She snapped herself out of her daydream to finish work and get through the day. The next few days were tedious and I eventful. Ryan was busy pumping up the crew for the newbies, Sasha was busy giving Eve a hard time, and Lauren was sick Thursday and Friday so she was unavailable to help Evelyn shop for her "perfect sailing outfit." Come Friday night she was I edge, but Eve was calmed by Grants call.

                                                                    Grant

                                        Hey there, lady, you got your sea legs ready!?

                                                              

                                                                    Evelyn 

                                     (Laughing)  Wow, did you really just say "sea legs?"

                                                                     Grant

I thought you'd get a kick out of that! But really, are you ready for tomorrow? It's going to be fun!

                                                                    Evelyn

                              Oh I'm ready, I just hope I'm sea worthy, Captain

                                                                  Grant

And you're making fun of me?! Seriously though I'm excited to see you. The weather should hold out           

                                and the boat is all ready to go. I'll pick you up around 8? 

                                                                    Evelyn

                      Aye aye, captain! (They laugh) Ok, I'm done! Yes, I'll see you tomorrow morning !

    The butterflies weren't gone by the time she woke up. He was right on time. She wasn't ready. 

My Father's Wedding (Part 2)

     While her sisters and Marianne's friends doted over and attended to her every need, Evelyn sat in a corner of the room with her crew.  She still never really felt a part of family engagements down here, though she'd been in California for two years.  She wasn't sure if it was her, them or a combination thereof.  Probably her, more than anything.  She never really knew what to say or how to fit in.  It was like coming in the middle of a movie and not having any idea what the plot is, and no one is there to fill you in.  But they kept inviting her to showers, graduations, birthdays and the like; so she kept going.  Maybe one day she'll feel totally included, but today wasn't the day.

Sasha

Dude, have you seen your dad yet?

Evelyn

Come to think of it, no.... do you think I should go find him and say hey?

Lauren

Maybe you should stay here.  Elizabeth would have a heart attack if you weren't in the right place at the right time...

Sasha

True, but you can just go say hey.  I mean, he probably wants to see you anyway.  Besides, you're not really doing anything here.  (sarcastically) I think Marianne is pretty much covered.

     Evelyn looked over at Marianne and her entourage and decided that Sasha was right.  She would have had Sasha and Lauren make a diversion so she could get away, but it was clearly unnecessary. Evelyn's dress swished as she walked down the hall.  Her shoes made such a loud click-clacking noise that she took them off to mask the sound.  She actually didn't know where to find her father in this complex of a country club, but she figured since he was like her, she'd hear him a mile away.  She was right. After a left, and two short rights she heard the unforgettable laugh of her father and a chorus of other cackles. Down the hall, on the right she saw smoke billowing out from the sides of a set of dark wood double-doors, and new she'd reached the place.  Not knowing why, she knocked.  Obviously, they wouldn't hear her. So she knocked again accompanied by a loud "Hey! What's going on in there!?"

     The door whisked open and a fog of cigar smoke billowed out.  "Evelyn!" her father, Eric, cried. "Get in here!" Evelyn waltzed in with the utmost confidence, though on the inside she was shaking. She was good at hiding how she really felt which was both a talent and a detriment. The men, even Marianne's sad-sack son, Marcus, all seemed to be having a blast!  Evelyn wished she were a guy so she could hang in the "fun room" instead of being bored to tears with the ladies. She vowed that if she ever got married (a big IF), she would have as much fun as the guys.  Champagne and cigars for all!

Eric

Hey, everyone this is my, daughter, Evelyn!  Some of you know here, but most of you don't.

Evelyn

Hey fellas!  Looks like you're all having a great time....

(the Men)

Hell yeah!  Woo!  You know it!

Eric

Why aren't you primping with the ladies?

Evelyn

I'm all primped out. Besides, I heard this is where the party's at!

Eric

You heard right!  Whiskey?

Evelyn

Um.. yes please!  STAT!

     Eric guided Evelyn through the smoke and laughter to a flask and a Solo cup.  He was a pretty good looking guy; black, curly hair with a gray speckles, kind eyes, big but endearing nose, and short and a bit round.  Evelyn, shared is stature, but her face resembled her mother more and she was thankful.  Her mom was a knockout!  Evelyn didn't think of herself that way, but her mom was definitely a hottie in her day.  Evelyn hated that she didn't inherit her mom's well proportioned and taller frame.  She was never as long and thin as her mom used to be.  She was always, a bit hobbit-like, she thought. But even Hobbits look good in formal wear, she smiled to herself. 

Eric

What are you smiling at?

Evelyn

Nothing. You just look smashing in your tux!

Eric

Yeah, I clean up pretty good.  (sips a drop of spilled whiskey off his palm, then hands Evelyn her plastic cup)  How's Marianne looking?  She good enough for your old man?

Evelyn

(lifts her glass for a toast) She looks amazing!  Here's to you and your new bride!

Eric

Here's to you being here on this day!

     As they "clink" plastic cups, their little moment was broken by a shrill voice from outside the door.  It was Elizabeth, screaming for Evelyn!  She quickly downed her whiskey and looked around for another way out. The giggling men helped her locate a window they opened, and helped her crawl through.  Laughing and slightly buzzed already, she jumped out the window and found her way back to the ladies' area.  She didn't notice until Lauren pointed it out, that she had forgotten her shoes in the other room.  And just as she turned to go back and get them, there was Elizabeth in the doorway holding them up, with a disproving look on her face. 

Elizabeth

Really, Evelyn??  We're about to make our entrances, and you're galavanting? Is your make-up done? Is your speech done?  Have you helped Marianne get ready?

Evelyn

Uh, Marianne has all the help she needs, Bridesmaid-zilla!  And yes, everything else is done. It's all good!  I promise!

     But it wasn't all good.  Evelyn didn't have a speech.  She tried several times to sit down and write something, but the words just didn't come.  She usually was a pretty decent public speaker, but today she was nervous.  What exactly was she going to say about a man everyone expected her to know, but she didn't?  She was sure that Elizabeth had something perfectly prepared and polished.  Erin, would be funny and cute. That would leave Evelyn, with her last-minute slop.  Evelyn often sold herself short, though. She was actually amazing under pressure! Most of her papers and reports from second grade until her senior yer in college were written the night before, and she still pulled excellent grades.  She would probably be fine. Probably....
     In a matter of minutes, it was time for everyone to get in their places.  Marianne's co-worker and Matron of Honor, Cecile was fluffing and primping Marianne's train.  Elizabeth and Erin followed close behind with Evelyn in the rear. The other ladies had taken their seats in the audience and were waiting for the ceremony to begin. Evelyn didn't usually have trouble being in the spotlight, but today she just wanted to blend in. As the music queued up the ladies started their parade down the aisle. A Evelyn scanned the crowd for Sasha and Lauren, she paused when she noticed an older guy staring at her.  She looked away, thinking he was just checking everyone out, but quickly managed another glance.  Yep, he was still looking at her.  But as she took her spot at the side of the alter, hers, and all eyes, were glued to Marianne.
     She floated down the aisle eyes forward on her man.  Everyone gasped and awed, in typical wedding fashion, as Marianne took her place by Eric's side. Elizabeth was smiling, because she knew that everyone was looking, but Evelyn and Erin could tell that it was forced. No one cared.  The ceremony was short and to the point, which Evelyn appreciated, and soon the party got started!  The one great thing about parties in this family was that they went all out!  The food was amazing, the decor stellar.  The evening outside even cooperated, though it was usually chilly mid-March. The sisters were situated at the main table with the wedding party, a tradition that Evelyn was firmly against (if and when) she had her own wedding. She would instead have people sit where they wanted, maybe a table reserved for the parents, and just her by her man. If she ever had one... She was waiting anxiously for the speeches to start, so the dinner would be over and she would be free to roam about and party with her girlfriends. Just as she wished this, the speeches were beginning, and she wished she could take it back.

Wedding DJ/Announcer

And now the daughters of the groom have some words for the happy Newlyweds!

Elizabeth

(clears throat) My Father has always been there for me.  He's been my rock and foundation from childhood into womanhood.  Sure, there were ups and downs, but I've always known through it all, that my daddy would be there for me. He's always had my happiness in mind, and on this day it gives me pleasure to support his happiness. (lifts her glass) To my father and is lovely bride, Marianne.  May all your days be filled with all the joy in the world!

(all cheers)

Erin

Wow, that's a hard act to follow, but I'll give it my best shot!  Well, my dad as also been there for me as well. He's a great guy who deserves the best. But when I first met Marianne, I thought she was too good for him!  I mean, come on, she's champagne, and he's tequila! (crowd laughs) But when I saw them together and watched them fall in love, I know they were meant to be together.  So, here's to Dad and Marianne: champagne and tequila!!

(crowd echos 'champagne and tequila') 

Evelyn

(nervous, but hiding it well)  Well, I was going to write a speech.  In fact, I sat down to write it many, MANY times. But I've found that some of the best speeches come from the heart more than the head. So, I'm winging it... (crowd chuckles/awes)  As many of you know, I didn't grow up with my father.  I really barely know him at all. But getting to know him, and my sisters, and Marianne has taught me that love knows no distance or time. Love gets and gives second chances.  Love can be found anywhere and at any time in your life in ways and from places you never imagined. So my toast is not only to this wonderful couple who were lucky enough to get a second chance...(playfully) ...and third ...and fourth (crowd giggles), and who were brave enough to chase those chances; but also to love itself, wherever, and whenever it finds us. (hush over crowd)  Cheers! 

     The guests raised their glasses and cheered heartily after Evelyn's speech.  Hugs were exchanged, and Evelyn caught her father wiping away a tear.  Elizabeth was sulking. Through the sea of praise and joy, Evelyn caught the eye of that guy who was staring at her earlier.  She had to break away from the spotlight, find her girls, and get the skinny on who this dude was. When the DJ cued up the first dance, Evelyn made her break for the "singles table" where Lauren and Sasha were seated.  Some drunk teenager was hitting on Sasha, and Lauren was loving every second of it. Evelyn shimmied her way over to her friends, relieved that she could just sit back and relax. Just as she was almost to the table, she was stopped by a deep voice and a hand on her shoulder.  She turned to see the mystery man she'd been wondering about all night.

Mystery Man

That was an amazing speech.  Are you sure you didn't write it beforehand?

Evelyn

Haha, no.  I'm better on the fly.

Mystery Man

Well, I think you missed your calling as a speech writer!

Evelyn

Thanks!  It was hard coming after my sisters, but I feel pretty good about it.

Mystery Man

As you should.

Evelyn

I'm Evelyn.

Mystery Man

I know.  I'm Grant.

Evelyn

Well, looks like you know all about me and I have absolutely no clue who you are!

Grant

(laughing)  I only know a little.  I'm Marianne's boss. She's told me all about you and your sisters and Eric. She invited me to this little shin dig. Not a bad little party.

Evelyn

Ahhh, well I'm glad Marianne was the one who told you about me.  She only knows the good stuff.

Grant

(obviously flirting) Oh, so there's bad stuff to find out?

Evelyn

If you're lucky...

     Evelyn was taken by Grant's dark salt and pepper hair. He had blue eyes, great build, and a smile that makes your knees weak. She was trying to play it as cool as possible. He reminded her of James Bond, so she was nervous as hell.  But she was a pretty good actress when she needed to be, so she played off her infatuation well. They were just about to enter into another round of cheesy cliche flirting, when they were interrupted by Sasha. 

Sasha

HEY HEY super speaker!  Nice Speech, babe!

Evelyn

Yeah thanks, Sash. Having fun?

Sasha

Totally. (cutting to the chase) Who's your friend?

Evelyn

This is Grant.  Grant, meet Sasha, the wallflower. 

Grant

Nice to meet you Wallflower!

Sasha

Likewise!  So did you like, Evelyn's speech?  Doesn't she look amazing in this dress?

Grant

Yes, and yes. 

Lauren

(coming to save the day) Sasha, hey!  I was just going to the bar, you want to come with me?

Grant

I'll get some drinks for you ladies.  What do you need?

Lauren, Sasha, Evelyn

Fuzzy navel. Rum and coke. Jameson, neat. 

Grant

Neat, wow. Ok, then. Coming right up! (exits to bar)

Sasha

He's a hottie!  You going to hook up with him tonight?

Lauren

Of course she's not going to hook up with him tonight!  She's going to be a lady.

Evelyn

SHE doesn't know yet, since her two shadows are cramping her style!

Lauren

Hey I came over here to rescue you from Little Miss Butts-her-head-in-everywhere!

Sasha

Whatever, dude.  I'm totally playing wing man.

Evelyn

Well, thank you both very much, but I don't need a wing man or a rescue.  I'm not even sure he's that interested.  I mean, he's really good looking.  And older.  Not sure what's going on yet.

Lauren

Oh, he's interested.  I saw him ogling you during the ceremony.

Evelyn

Oh my god, me too!  I thought I was crazy!

Lauren

Definitely not, he's interested all right

Sasha

Find out if he has a boat.

Evelyn and Lauren

A boat!?

Sasha

Yeah, older guys with money always have boats.  Especially if he's rich. 

Evelyn

That's some crazy logic. Plus, we don't know if he's rich.

Sasha

Didn't you notice the bow tie you actually have to tie, and that tux is too good to be rented. Only rich guys own tuxes.

Lauren

That's crazy, you have no idea if he owns that tux or not.  

Sasha

You just wait and see.  He owns that tux, probably Prada or Gucci, and he owns a boat.  We need more friends with boats so don't screw this up!

Evelyn

Ok, fine, whatever, but you guys need to make yourselves scarce when he comes back.  Take your drinks and get the fuck out of here!  

Lauren

Of course we will...

     Grant returned with their drinks just as the girls finished dishing.  Lauren made some excuse for them to leave about talking to the bride and groom, and they scurried off, but not before Sasha could make a quip about a boat. Grant asked Evelyn if she wanted to go somewhere more quiet so they could chat, and she accepted.  They moved under a grove of trees lit up miniature Chinese lanterns.  There was a surprisingly warm breeze the gently flipped and tickled the leaves. In spite of her magenta dress Evelyn was glowing, and Grant looked like he walked out of a romantic 50's film.  Speaking of 50's Evelyn was dying to know how old he was, but didn't dare to ask. They talked about music, film, their jobs, and friends. Grant owned a small law firm that specialized in real estate law.  Pretty boring, he said, but it pays the bills.  Evelyn complained about being in tech support, and Grant confessed he was probably one of the tech un-savvy who would probably call her.

Grant

Yeah, we old guys let technology pass us by!

Evelyn

You're not old!

Grant

I'm much older than you!

Evelyn

I doubt it.  I just have a youthful look. 

Grant

Well, I'm 53.  And you?

Evelyn

(jokingly) A lady never reveals her age. Haha, but you're right, you are a bit older than I am.

Grant

I hope that's not an issue.

Evelyn

No, not at all.  I mean, people of all ages can be friends...

Grant

What if I want to be more than a friend?

Evelyn

Well, I guess we'll cross that bridge when we come to it.

Grant

Well, I had the feeling we were already there.

     Evelyn was stunned and tongue-tied, which never happens.  She was awe-struck and wondered why this guy was hitting on her.  There were gorgeous girls all around, but he chose her.  She was sure there was some mistake.  But then she considered that maybe older guys saw around the bullshit of being in your 20s and 30s.  Maybe they looked for something different in a girl.  Maybe they looked for a woman.  While she was pondering these things, she didn't notice how close they had gotten, and how long she'd been in her own head.

Grant

Where'd you go?

Evelyn

Sorry, I was just thinking about something Sasha said earlier. 

Grant

Yeah? (moving closer)  What's that?

Evelyn

(nervous, blurts out anything to keep him from kissing her) Do you own a boat?

Grant

(lets out a full-bodied laugh)  That's great!  Why was she wondering about that?

Evelyn

She has a theory.

Grant

Please share!

Evelyn

She thinks that you own this tux, it's a designer label like Gucci or Prada, and that you own a boat. 

Grant

What is this based on?

Evelyn

She's crazy?

Grant

Well, you're crazy friend is correct.  Mostly.  I do own this tux and I do own a boat.

Evelyn

That's not mostly, that's everything.

Grant

Nope. The tuxedo is Ralph Lauren. (with a wink)

Evelyn

I will definitely have to tell her how her crazy theory happened to be correct. I really love that girl.  She never ceases to completely freak me out!

Grant

Haha, I love it!  Well, you tell her that I will take her, and your other friend out sometime if you like.  But under one condition.

Evelyn

(flirting again) What's that?

Grant

You come out with me on your own first.  Just to get a feel for it, of course

Evelyn

Of course...

     Grant leans in again for a kiss, and Evelyn doesn't fight it.  How can you fight a charming, successful, smart funny guy...  with a boat?

My Father's Wedding (Part 1)

~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~

Lauren

Dude, get up, we're gonna be late!

Evelyn

(sleepily) I don't care.

Lauren

Yes, you do!  It's the big day and you don't want to be late!

Evelyn

(louder) I. Don't. Care.

Lauren
Sasha!  A little help here...?

Sasha
Ev- you know that you want to watch your father marry some boring old hen, then get just drunk enough to make some silly, cheesy, slurred speech, then finally make out with some middle-aged groomsman. So get the fuck up!

Lauren
(sarcastically) Such a way with words, you have...

Evelyn
(laughs) Ok, George Carlin and Yoda, I'm getting up!

<Evelyn drags herself out of bed and eyeballs her dress hanging on the closet door>

Evelyn
Is this really happening?

Sasha
(jumps on Evelyn) Get up, get up, get up!

Evelyn
Ugh, dude, get off me! I'm up!  I can't believe I agreed to do this crap!

Lauren
Well, of course you did.  You're a sweet, loving daughter who wants to be there to support her father.

Evelyn
A father I barely know...

Lauren
So get to know him!  You know it's never too late!

Evelyn
Sasha, please get her away from me before I strangle her! I don't think I can stand your "look-on-the-bright-side, glass-half-full, lemons-to-lemonade bullshit today, Lor.

<Sasha laughs, Laura winces>

Lauren
Hey!  Just because I'm a positive, HAPPY, person doesn't mean I'm a target!  You need to focus on something good, OK?  I know this is hard for you, even though you say it's no big deal.

Sasha
She has a point, E. Let's just do this thing!

     Lauren and Sasha rarely agreed on anything, so when they did, Evelyn had to listen. They were right; she needed to get happy.  Though it was getting harder and harder to get happy these days.  As everyone in their 20s coupled up and started families, Evelyn was left behind. Sure, she dated, but the relationships she had always ended.  She kept in touch with a lot of her ex's since the relationships rarely ended badly, but that wasn't the easiest thing to do.  Sometimes she wished they had ended badly, so she could harness the often needed anger to get over things faster. Then there were the flings. Guys who just wanted around her because she's cute and fun, but never wanted to commit.  She was a willing participant in most of these flings, but wondered what it would be like to be a "girlfriend girl."

     However, Evelyn was a "friend girl." Cute, smart, charming, funny, and kind, but with a a wild streak.  She could party with the boys, outwit them, compete with them, but she could never get her mind (or heart) around playing the dating game.  She wasn't someone who could be pursued.  If she likes a guy, he knows it.  There's nothing shy or coy about her.  She saw girls around her who could give just enough to keep them wanting more, but for better or worse, she never mastered that skill.  Nor did she particularly want to.  But she figured that's what she would have to go to get a guy.  When Lauren liked a guy, he had to figure it out.  Evelyn never saw the point in being aloof.  Plus, she wasn't any good at it! She tried to for a bit, but gave up.  Who wants to play games?" she thought.  Apparently, everyone but her.   

Evelyn

OK, so, how do I look?

Sasha

 You look awesome, dude!  Well, as awesome as anyone can look in fuchsia!

Lauren

Now, stop, she looks amazing!

Evelyn

I need to lose weight.  My stomach is fucking ridiculous!

Lauren

Shut up, you're perfect!

Evelyn and Sasha

Says the perfect one....

Lauren

PLEASE!  I'm SO not perfect!  Besides, if you came to yoga with me....

Evelyn

Oh my god dude, stop with the yoga already!  (teasing) Not all of us are as bendy as you!

Sasha

Hey, I went and it was cool. A lot of eye candy!

Evelyn

Yeah, exactly!  I'm going to be surrounded by yoga goddesses in tight clothes and stand there with my fat ass!?  HELL NO!

Lauren

Well, don't complain about it if you're not going to do anything to change it! And Sasha, you can't come anymore if you're just going to ogle my classmates!

     Sasha is gay. She came out the year before she and Evelyn met.  At first, Sasha thought that she and Evelyn would hook up. But when it became apparent that Evelyn was hopelessly straight, they became great friends instead.  Sasha and Laura are not Evelyn's childhood friends. They all met at work when Evelyn moved to San Francisco from Portland for a job. Though Lauren and Sasha clash sometimes, they stick together due to their mutual love of Evelyn (and secretly) each other. Neither of them could understand why Evelyn was single all the time.  They adored her!  And she them. Evelyn was fiercely loyal to her friends and family. Lauren always just figured that she would meet the perfect guy someday, but that Eve was such a unique person, that the guy would have to be as well.  A girl like Evelyn was hard to find, so obviously a guy like her would be hard to find as well.  Sasha just thought Eve scared guys away with her "awesomeness."

They constantly joked about Evelyn "switching teams." "You'd be a great boyfriend, E!" Sasha would say.  "I know, wish I could just get traded or something!"

Evelyn

Well, this is as good as it gets.  "Let's rock this bitch." (quoting the film Mean Girls)

Sasha

Ah, Mean Girls.  SUCH a classic.

Lauren

"You can't sit with us!!" (also quoting)

     Laughing, they got their purses and bags together, and loaded into the car. Quoting teen movies was a regular occurrence with them. Though Evelyn was a few years older than the girls, they rarely noticed.  But on the car ride over, she couldn't help but reminisce. Though she loved Lauren and Sasha, Evelyn missed her two best friends from Portland, Billie and Noelle. She'd been through a lot with them, and longed to be with the ones who know her best on this stressful day.  But it wasn't her wedding, so Evelyn couldn't ask them to come down to be with her. Besides, Noelle had her husband and three kids, and Billie had her man. They had lives and she couldn't ask them to drop everything to come deal with her neurosis/drama. The funny thing is that if she'd asked them, they both would have found a way to come. 

     Snapping herself back to the present, Evelyn looked around at her two "local besties." They looked gorgeous, and she felt lucky to have found two "plus ones" instead of just one. Though she was sure she'd hear about it from her sister, Elizabeth, she didn't care.  She needed them with her to get through the day. Just as she was thinking this they pulled up to the venue. Sure enough, there was Elizabeth, with a scowl on her face...

Elizabeth

You were supposed to be here half an hour ago....!

Lauren

I'm sorry, it was my fault!   I take forever to get ready!

Sasha

Yeah, so we're here now, and there plenty of time Lizzy

Elizabeth

(annoyed)  It's Elizabeth.  Evelyn, are you ready? Daddy needs us to help and do you have a speech prepared?  You're speaking last-

Sasha

So, you're like, the opening act..?

Evelyn

Yes, Elizabeth, I'm ready. Where do we need to be?

Elizabeth

Over here. We need to hurry. 

     Elizabeth rushed them through a flower infested foyer through a long mirrored hall to an ornate door.  On the other site, the bride, Marianne, and the other ladies were getting ready.  The room smelled of hairspray, polish remover, champagne, and an array of various perfumes. Along with the aromas, Evelyn was encompassed in the arms of her sister, Erica. 

Erica

Eve!  Yay, you're here!  Late as usual, but I know you gotta make an entrance.(winks)

Evelyn

Yeah, you know me!  How are you?  You look amazing!

Erica

I'm goo-

Elizabeth

(interrupting) Speaking of entrances, you're going first, then me then Eri.  In age order. 

Evelyn

Yeah, I got that-

Elizabeth

And our bouquets should be held slightly below our waists.  The stupid florists almost messed them up, but I got them straightened out.  And your hair isn't the same as ours, but I guess that should work, and is your dress loose enough? It looks a bit tight, at least your heels are good-

Evelyn

Elizabeth!  Chill. I got this. We all got this.

Erica

Yeah, Elz, take a pill.  It's all good.

Marianne

Girls, please!  I should be the one who's all stressed you girls should be having fun.  Shouldn't I need the worried one?  I mean, how often go you get to marry the love of your life?

     In Marianne's case, the answer to that question is three times.  This was her third marriage! She joked, badly, about the first two being "practice." She has an unfortunate son, Marcus, who cringes every time she says it.  He is from her first marriage to an awful man she married due to getting pregnant.  Then her second was to a total wet rag who did everything she said. And now she was on to Evelyn's father.  He was somewhere in between, Evelyn supposed. Marianne wasn't a bad person, she was actually pretty sweet.  A bit too sweet for Evelyn's tastes, but still pleasant. Evelyn hadn't spent much time with her, but Elizabeth, who had spent time getting to know her, hated her!  Evelyn figured that Elizabeth didn't like Marianne because she took time away from her being with her father. Elizabeth was definitely daddy's girl, and even when her parents split, she spent most of her time with her dad. Erica and Elizabeth's mother, Nadine, was a lovely woman, and was always extremely nice to Evelyn.  It may be in part due to the fact that Nadine was the woman Evelyn's father left her mother for, but Evelyn didn't mind.  It was reassuring to know that people can recover and move on from their mistakes of the past. 

~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ 

A Foreword...

A Foreword....


I'm full of brilliant ideas. Absolutely full of them! But I'm not full follow through.  I get so excited about my new projects, then fail to really complete any of them.  So, I decided that I'd try a new approach. Instead of trying to write one screenplay or one novel all at once, I would write my latest fancy as a blog. Along with publishing as a blog, I decided to make it a serial or episodic novel. This way it will keep me writing and keep you guessing.  Also, along the way, I may ask for suggestions or opinions to move the story along, and include some of your great ideas as well!

In the next few days the first segment will appear. Please pass this along to anyone you think would enjoy it.  Below is a teaser to get you started....



    At 18, being engaged was a bit much.  When they ended it at 21 she thought she could definitely find "the one." At 27 she'd been a bridesmaid 6 times already, and by 31 she'd given up on a wedding of her own. Evelyn isn't necessarily one of those girls everyone likes, but she's a lot of fun.  She's witty, charismatic, daring, and independent. On the flip side, she's opinionated, bossy, demanding, and dramatic.  A bit too honest some would say.  She has a quick tongue and fowl mouth, but a very large and giving heart.  Her pretty face and mediocre body make her non threatening to women and appealing to men.... as a friend.
     On this very Saturday, she was going to be a bridesmaid yet again.  In her father's wedding!  She hadn't grown up with him, so she didn't know him very well.  Only when her younger half-sisters wanted to get in touch did she know of their existence, and his desire to get to know her. Evelyn grew up happily with her mother, stepfather, and brother, and felt no real loss as a child. But as she got older, there were definitely questions that lingered in her mind.  "Who was this asshole and why did he leave me?  Why didn't he try to keep in touch?" Then she's squash those impulses with a quick, "Fuck him," and carry on.
     However, on this particular day, she couldn't say that.  She had an obligation to fill, and she always kept her promises. Well, mostly....