Who Gets the Friends? Read Online Free PDF Page A

did one of those day-long bus tours. Really interesting.”
    “I took one of those when I was in San Francisco. At first I wasn’t wild about the idea but I was glad someone talked me into it. I saw more sights that way than I would have on my own.”
    Jessica glanced down and offered a wistful smile. “Funny how little things remind you of other things, isn’t it? There you are, going through your day, totally focused on what you’re doing, when something minor catches your attention and you’re suddenly back in time.”
    Tom took a sip and looked curiously at her. “Does drinking Pinot Grigio have that effect on you?”
    “Not just the wine, but it reminded me of that trip. I hadn’t thought about it in a long time.”
    “I’m guessing you took that trip with someone pretty special.”
    She slowly nodded. “The boyfriend I told you about.” She raised her eyes to meet his. “I wasn’t totally up front with you when I said we broke up.” She hesitated. “He was an Air Force Reservist who was killed in a training flight in Houston earlier this year.”
    Tom sat back and tried not to stare. Doug said she took that pretty hard. It still shows. “I’m very sorry.”
    Jessica gave a slight shrug. “I shouldn’t have brought it up. Sorry.”
    Tom took her hand in his. “Don’t apologize. Since we’re being honest, that trip to San Francisco was with my ex-wife. Probably the last fun thing we did together.”
    She laughed softly. “Aren’t we a pair? Here we are on our first actual date and we’re talking about the past.”
    “Didn’t a wise man once say If you don’t know where you’ve been, how do you know where you’re going ?”
    “I’ve heard that, but I don’t recall who said it.”
    “Laurence Olivier to Neil Diamond in The Jazz Singer . Great songs, terrible movie.”
    Jessica laughed. “Thanks for clearing that up.” Her laugh faltered. “Do you ever take anything seriously?”
    “Only the important things.”
    She kneaded his hand while peering into his eyes. “Like what?”
    “Life, family, friends and the Cleveland Indians.”
    “Interesting list.”
    “What do you take seriously?”
    “All of the above, but substitute the Cincinnati Reds.”
    Tom rolled his eyes and groaned. “I can see a fight looming over the remote during playoff season next year.”
    She squeezed his hand again. “Fighting is such a waste of energy.”
    “I agree, but where else do you channel it?”
    Her eyes took on a murky glow. “Passion comes to mind.”
    She’s doing it again. I know I’ve been out of circulation for a long time, but I don’t recall this . “Good point.”
    He was saved when the server brought their food. Jessica took a taste, then hummed her approval. “I’d forgotten how good they make their lasagna.”
    Tom cut off a small piece of veal saltimbocca. “I don’t recall ever getting a bad meal here.”
    Jessica gave him a playful look. “Save room for tiramisu, but don’t overindulge. Wouldn’t want you to fall asleep later because you were too full.”
    “I’ll keep it in mind.” He chased his food with some wine. I don’t know if she’s serious or being a tease, but I like it . “What’s your idea of a perfect date night?”
    She thought for a moment while chewing. “I’m pretty comfortable with nights like this, maybe followed by a walk or a stop at a club with live music. I also like staying put, maybe ordering a pizza and watching a movie. What about you?”
    “You may not believe this, but I like the same things. I can dress up and blend in with the concert crowd, but more often I like your second scenario, especially after a busy week.”
    “So are you more of a homebody?”
    “Not all the time. I love to travel.”
    “Where’s the best vacation spot, in your mind?”
    “Florida or the east coast. Anywhere near the water. Great photo ops in places like that. I also like the Smokey Mountains. What about you?”
    “The same. When I go to the