“Wasn't frightened," I grunted in a futile attempt to salvage my ego.

“Just surprised me that's all."

“Well have another beer, David," he handed me a fresh cup.

“You need to loosen up." And with that he turned to my date.

“And Amber... gorgeous, gorgeous Amber... where you been? We missed you at the Last party.”

Randall's redheaded girlfriend piped up.

“He wouldn't shut up about it for DAYS."

“And what am I? Chopped liver?" E-Beth whined.

“No, no, mon cherie," Randall immediately swooped over, taking E-Beth's hand in his own and kissing it gently.

“You are Venus brought here as a mortal to inflame the Libidos of all around you. It just wouldn't be a party without you. I pity whatever poor sap let a creature of your beauty out of his grasp." At that Last phrase, Randall turned and gave me a teasing wink.

E-Beth saw and started giggling. I just wanted to reach out and wring his neck.

Randall stepped back and made an overly dramatic bow with arms outstretched. "Would you two fine ladies be interested in continuing this elsewhere? It is early in the evening and I'm certain we could find a venue better suited to a more intimate conversation."

He held his hands to each of the girls and E-Beth blushed as she took one. Amber, meanwhile, wrapped her arm around me and slid her butt into my lap. "Go on up, we'll follow in a minute.”

I caught the slightest frown from Randall, but he smoothly went back to smiling. "Come Angelina." He held his other hand out to his redheaded girlfriend. "Let us go and make beautiful music together."

When they were gone, I turned to Amber.

“That was your kind of guy?"

She smirked and looked at me, “It was charming at first. That's why I went out with him a few times in the beginning. But it can get annoying after a while."

“He's an ass."

“So are most of the guys I've dated. Must be the trust funds going to their heads. I think that's why I wanted to find out what dating you would be Like."

"Oh, a Little walk amongst the commoners? A little charity for the poor folk?"

“Stop it. I like you for you; that's all the reason I need. I'm not the one trying to bring up my family's bank account so stop with all the second-class jokes, okay?"

I looked at her in wonder. How much of our earlier animosity was her judging me to be beneath her? Or was it me judging her without getting to know her? "I'm sorry," I said sincerely.

“It's alright. Randall and other guys like him have that effect on people. We don't really have to join them if you don't want to." Amber stroked my cheek.

"No, it's alright. I don't know that I'd Like Leaving E-Beth all alone with them, either."

“She handled herself just fine the Last party. But you're right; I need to back up my best friend. And besides," Amber flashed me a wicked grin.