Laura was waiting when Jean arrived. She watched her cross the restaurant. Her mind wandered, contemplating if Jean might have something to do with James' sudden change of heart.
"Sorry, I'm late. Some days getting out of the office is quite the chore. Have you ordered?"
She smiled, shaking her head, "No, I've only just arrived. I've had one of those days, too."
Jean laughed, picking up the menu, "The joys of leadership."
They looked through the menus then placed their orders. Lifting her glass, Laura smiled at her friend. "Did James say anything to you on Friday?"
"We talked for a few minutes. But nothing about your marriage." Jean paused, taking a sip, "Well, that's not entirely true. He did question whether or not you would be happy with easy companionship." At Laura's concerned look, Jean continued, "Don't worry. I told him you were perfectly happy with Robbie."
"You could try to say that like you mean it."
"Well, he does pose an interesting question."
"What question? That I am not happy with Robbie?"
"You heard him, he tried to lump you into his age bracket. You're not and at some point…"
"At some point, what, Jean?"
"Laura, you've been together, what a year now? And already you're in a routine that most couples don't hit until they've been together for years."
Laura laughed, deep raucous laughter. Jean stared at her confused by Laura's laughter. It didn't seem like angry or even bitter laughter. "Care to share with the class."
"I suppose now is as good a time as any."
"Good of time as any for what."
Laura smiled, a deeply satisfied, cat ate the canary smile. "It hasn't been a year."
"Well, I know that, it won't be a year until next month. Thus the party."
"It's been three years. Well, actually four but officially, three."
Jean shook her head, "How is that possible?"
"You're not the only one capable of keeping secrets, Jean."