Part 7 (1/2)
”They usually end in the G.o.dd.a.m.nest fight, and just anywhere that they didn't start,” answered Evelyn.
”Do you think this one will end that way?”
”I can't see why this one should be any different from any of the rest; besides, Mickey Finn is going to be there, and that's always the sign of a fight.”
Hugo's Lobby No. 2 was brilliantly lighted, as ever, and much less crowded than the night before, owing to the early hour. As Pearl and Evelyn walked in, there were about fifteen or twenty people at the bar, and about three times as many in the cabaret having dinner.
”h.e.l.lo, Henry,” called Evelyn, ”Two whiskeys for two ladies.”
”Coming up, Ev.”
Pearl felt two cool hands slip over her eyes, and a soft voice in her ear, that made her body quiver and caused a tight feeling in her stomach.
”Guess who, darling,” said the voice in her ear.
”Hi--Harry, you big louse,” came from Evelyn before Pearl could say a word.
”Oh, gee, Ev, you spoiled my game,” said Harry poutingly.
”She ain't no game, Harry--she's a sure thing,” winked Evelyn.
Harry took Pearl in his arms, gave her a big hug, and then kissed her.
”Oh, Harry--what will people think?”
”Look all around you,” said Evelyn, ”Not a soul has noticed you.”
”What are you having to drink, Harry?” asked the bartender.
”Whiskey, pal,” answered Harry; then to Pearl, ”Listen, honey, are you doing anything tonight? I'm going on a party, and it may be a bit rough, but would you like to come? I know you will have a good time.”
”I know all about the party, darling, and Ev and I are both going, aren't we, Ev?”
”Sure thing.”
”Oh, that's great,” said Harry. ”Well, I got to be going now. I've got to get that band to playing, and start a little excitement in there, or the guests will kick. So long, honey, I'll see you at the party.”
”Oh, Henry, another whiskey for me,” called Evelyn. ”What do you want, dear--whiskey or smelling salts?”
”Both,” answered Pearl.
”Do you really like him as much as that? No kidding, come clean.”
”Honestly, cross my heart, I love him--like h.e.l.l.”