Read Resilient (2) for Free Online

pulled into the circular cobblestone driveway of   Charlie’s large home, Izzie said, “The sad thing is, for the same price you would get a small fixer upper in the city.” They all agreed. Izzie thought about how much she’d paid for her town home. It was a far cry from her tiny dilapidated childhood home out in West Texas. Having grown up in the sticks, she vowed never to leave the city. Neither would the others getting out of the car. Size or location, you usually had to make the choice. It was just one of those things. Some, like Katrine’s ex, make that exes, didn’t have to make the choice. But, they could keep their money and their posh accommodations as far as she was concerned.
    I’ll take a small place, independence, and an asshole-free existence any day of the week.

    Katrine discreetly scoped out the cars lining the streets, no jeep.
    Good, I can down a few drinks before I have to meet the new girlfriend.  
    The commuting cluster of friends made their way inside. The high vaulted ceiling of the entryway was illuminated by a large antique crystal and bronze chandelier and a large staircase curved toward the left of the room. There was a quaint sitting room to the right with several rolling coat racks. After the group took off their coats and stored their purses, they moved into the main living area. The light wood floor was covered in an elegant patterned rug. Thick white crown molding butted against soft gray walls. The furniture was a mix of wood and pale blue striped fabrics.  
    “For someone who has such a dirty mind, you sure have impeccable taste,” Katrine joked as Charlie approached them.  
    “Happy Anniversary, Charlie!”
    “You know us Texas girls. Part elegant hostess, part drunken sailor,” Charlie said as she herded them towards the bar in the next room. “And don’t get me started on this anniversary business. Michael is circling like a shark, and I’m wearing a chum flavored thong. I told the bartenders to keep his glass full at all costs. I want him to have a case of whiskey dick so bad that the only thing getting up, is me in the morning. Or even better, I want him completely passed out.”
    “Come on, Charlie. For the love of fuck, give it up on your anniversary!” Maddie yelled, catching the attention of other guests. Maddie saw them staring, raised her glass in their direction, and nodded. “Hi, bite me, bitches.” She said the last part in an indecipherable sing song way.
    “You’re in a mood tonight, Mads,” Katrine said.
    “Sorry, guys. I haven’t had sex in over a few weeks and it’s starting to make me psychotic.”
    “It’s been six months for me. You would be in a padded cell by now,” Katrine joked.
    “On that note I think I’ll go find the husband section.” Marcus walked away, shaking his head.
    “Hey, Paige, over here, sister!” Izzie hollered. She smiled, waved, and said something to her husband. He went to the male section and she made her way over to the group.
    “Wow, you girls look beautiful!” Paige said.
    “You too, that dress makes you look like a pipe cleaner with boobs. I mean that as a compliment,” Charlie teased as she grabbed the side of Paige’s short, form-fitting dress. It was a royal blue scoop neck that she wore with black heels.  
    “And I’ll take it as a compliment. Happy anniversary, friend!” Paige said as she hugged the hostess. They all had drinks and decided to check out the food situation. To say they were impressed and a little in awe would be an understatement.
    “My god, Charlie, this looks amazing!” Jane was the first to say. Everyone else followed suit because it was amazing.
    “Tell me you didn’t do this all on your own?” Katrine asked.
    “I didn’t do the desserts or the mushroom tarts. I got those at the French bakery up the road. But the rest I did myself. With the help of Costco, of course. I know it would be easier to hire a caterer, but this is one culinary endeavor I enjoy doing.”
    “I