I'm Brooding (open)

He shook his head.

"Oh, and has she been untoward with you? Or do you think she is just scheming to hurt you?"

His voice was soft. Not challenging.

"I refuse to attempt to fathom that woman anymore."

He nodded and took another drink.

"And so you have decided its all her fault. Cause its easier?"

He snorted. "Look, armchair psychiatrist. I ain't decided it's all her fault. Just like I ain't decided it's all my woman's fault."

He smiled.

"No armchair anything. With you it might lead to becoming a wheelchair Psychologist. I am just listening to someone I consider a friend."

He snorted. "Oh, now we're friends."

He looked at Jim.

"We have been a while. At least in my mind. I know you might not share the feeling. And I cannot blame you."

He snorted. "Oh, really?"

He looked at the man.

"Oh really to the friend part or the blaming you?"

"Both."

He set down the glass and motioned for the bartender to fill his and Jims.

"I have no doubt you consider me a lying bitch as much as her. So, no, no surprise there. And truth be told, you are right. I probably should have told you. But I did not think I could."

He looked at the big man.

"And yet when I needed help, needed wisdom I didnt go to my dad. I went to you. Heck.."

He stopped. No, not going down that road. He turned back to his drink and drained it and plopped it down motioning for it to be filled.

"An' you're supposed to be representin' my woman and when's the last time ya sat down and had a chat with her?"

He looked at the man.

"It has been a while. The last time she wanted to. In case you havent noticed, she hasnt been interested in much but you."

"Funny. She tells me different."

He raised an eyebrow.

"Oh?"

He snorted. "A 'friend' would know."

He sighed.

"I never said I was her friend. I said I was yours. And I never said you considered me as one. But point taken. I have fallen down on my representative duties. Quite frankly I avoid being with her. You should know why."

His brow rose. "Why should I know why?"

He raised an eyebrow.

"Because you know my girl. Better than anyone. And you know her life, at least before. And what families she has a problem with and why."

"It ain't ever stopped her from doing what needs doing. Or stopped me from havin' any friends I have ever wanted."

He shook his head.

"Things between her and me are different. She let me know..what would happen if I spent time with her in private. Which I avoid, have avoid..since before you two got together."

He snorted. "She must not trust ya." He wasn't being insulting. Just stating the facts as he saw them.

He looked at Jim and went back to his drink.

"Maybe."

He shrugged. "Ain't no maybe about it."

He moved his neck and shoulders.

"Or maybe she lets me get closer than you did. You were her best friend. But I am a little closer."