His words and actions were contradicting themselves but Juniper wasn’t going to argue with him, smiling and standing up fluidly from the table. “Sure, we’d better hail a taxi though to avoid a DUI. Better safe than sorry.”
He dropped a bit of tip on the table, wishing to leave before anyone made a big deal they were there.
In his somewhat fuzzy state of mind, Jack could only nod. “Sure. That sounds wise.” He wanted to pay for his share, but it seemed the actor was determined to take care of things. Well, he’d try and make it up to him when they had him over for a visit.
“So … I enjoyed this,” he said with a smile as they made their way outside. “I really do need to get out more.”
The air outside was a nice contrast to the inside of the bar as Juniper let out a breath and raised his arms to call a taxi for Jack. “I’d be happy to take you out drinking more in the future. Also glad I was able to help you loosen up and get out more.”
When the taxi pulled up in front of them Juniper was already flashing the man a wad of cash with instructions to take care of his new friend. “Tell your fiancee I said hello and I hope we can hang out together soon.”
“I will. And I hope we can too; I’d like really like it.” Jack wasn’t really aware of it, but as relaxed as he was from the alcohol, his stutter was completely gone. He got into the taxi – a little unsteadily – and gave the driver his address.
“I’ll call you soon.” He hesitated for a moment, then gave a playful little wave as the taxi drove away.
Jack Maple 