Abbie continues to offer her perspectives

[NOTE: This chapter happens in parallel with Jake's narrative.]

Jake released the kiss and licked his lips. He could almost taste Abbie's drink on his tongue, but he figured it was just what he felt was always sweet about her. He scooped up the five beer bottles from the bar, and with a slight nod to Staci and the others, ventured back to Phil's table.

"I almost feel jealous," said Emily, half to herself. "And that's ridiculous. All I did was hold your hand."

Abbie was still watching Jake as he delivered drinks to the men. Danny was talking to him, but didn't look happy.

Staci chuckled to herself. "Danny's gonna be pissed."

"I didn't mean to cause that," said Abbie. "But Jake can stand up for himself. I'm confident of that."

"If Jake survives, you'll have a story to tell," said Staci. "And I think we all already have one."

"All I did was watch," said Melanie. "You held Em's hand. You kissed your boyfriend. And I nearly had an orgasm over here."

"No kidding," said Emily, sipping her drink.

"So you and Jake clearly aren't exclusive then," said Melanie.

"What does exclusive mean?" Abbie asked. "I know to a lot of people it's about striving to meet societal expectations. I'm just not sure I know the value of it."

"Dangerous topic for a woman on the day before she gets married," said Staci.

Abbie smiled. "I know. I don't mean to challenge you at all. The goal is to find joy and comfort in the world. Everyone has their path."

"Agreed," said Staci. She held up her glass in an informal toast. Emily and Melanie joined as well. "To joy and comfort."

"To joy and comfort," the other three women echoed.

They were quiet as they enjoyed their cocktails. Melanie finished hers. Then Emily spoke.

"Is there joy to be found in Danny texting you later?" She snickered as she said it.

Abbie laughed. "Who knows? Maybe!"

Emily lost a small bit of her snicker, but looked at Abbie with a sly grin. "And what if I asked you for your number as well? What would you do?"

"You should ask and find out," said Abbie.