Jay blinked. Tobin emitted a sound that could have been a cough, a laugh, or perhaps a mix of both. Cody simply stared.
And then, because genuine and well-placed absurdity can often catch one off guard, Jay laughed first. It was a brief, reluctant laugh from someone who hadn't expected to find anything amusing, followed by Tobin's more exuberant response and Cody's reluctant exhale.
The social temperature of the table moved several degrees in a direction Mike had intended.
"Protecting the nerd for the MILF," Jay said, somewhere between disbelief and appreciation. "That's one way to handle it."
"Yeah, this guy is unique, guys." Jay glanced at his two friends. "I think we will have our fun if he's around."
"It's a practical way to handle it," Mike said. "I prefer practical."
"Wait a minute..." Tobin was still grinning. "She's actually that good-looking?"
"Tall," Mike said. "Composed. Very aware of what she wants."
He paused for a moment. "But it's not really important."
