“How are you?” said Andi, as she slid into the booth.
“Terrible – everything’s falling apart,” Marlene said, staring at the paper placemat.
“Well, you’re here, and I’m delighted to see you.” Andi sighed. If it was going to be one of those lunches, it might as well start off with making Marlene at least somewhat happy. How did her brother put up with such a sad sack?
Marlene fished out her sunglasses and whipped them on.
“Don’t mind me – just an off day,” Marlene smiled
“We all have them,” Andi said, consolingly.
“Well, we’re here – let’s enjoy ourselves,” Marlene said.
Part II
“How are you?” said Andi, as she slid into the booth.
“Could be better, but OK,” Marlene said, staring at the paper placemat.
“Well, you’re here, and I’m delighted to see you,” Andi said.
Marlene sighed at the slight edge she detected in Andi’s voice. She knew she should have canceled the lunch, as Andi disliked other people’s miseries. Clearly, it was time for shades.
“I’m delighted to see you too,” Marlene smiled, waveringly.
Marlene’s divorce from Andi’s brother was due to start tomorrow. At least there’d be one silver lining: she’d never ever have to lunch with Andi again.