Outside Looking In

4

"Bailey, are you coming tonight?" Owen questioned.

"Where?" Miranda asked not even bothering to look up from her tablet.

"To my party." He stressed.

"I wasn't aware of an invitation prior to now."

"I told you three days ago."

"Oh, it must have slipped my mind."

"So..."

"I'll be there."

"Ok great. It's at dockside at dukes " He smiled walking off.

"Outdoors." She mumbled rolling her eyes. She didn't feel like doing her hair, just for the heat to destroy it.

Later that day Miranda lotion down her body before putting on a black bra and lacy underwear set. She then did her makeup and fixed her hair. Singing to herself, Miranda looked through her closet and pulled out a black dress. It was spaghetti strapped and not something that she would usually wear. She didn't even remember buying it. It must have been given to her by Callie or Arizona years ago.

Hoping that it would fit she pulled it on and looked at herself in the mirror. She had to admit that she looked damn good. She was hoping that Ben would come tonight, but she didn't know if he still had a relationship with Hunt in this universe. He also had a wife so if he did come she probably would tag along and that would break her heart. She didn't want to see him and her together, it was too much."

After adding jewelry and checking herself in the mirror one more time Miranda grabbed her purse and phone before leaving. She made her way into the restaurant and walked straight to the bar. Looking out the window she saw a lot of her friends and coworkers.

"What can I get you beautiful?" The bartender questioned while cleaning glasses.

"Thank you for the compliment and a bourbon neat."

"Coming right up."

"Thank you." She smiled brightly.

"No problem. You are mature, deep, confident, and a purist.

"How did you get that?"

"From your drink order. A bourbon neat is bold. That's the best way to enjoy and let all the subtle intricacies of the aromas and flavors truly come together. If you add ice or mix it with something it personally messed the drink up."

"I think so too. So I take it you know what glass it should be served in as well."

"This one." He smiled handing her the tulip-shaped glass.

"You truly are an excellent bartender." She giggled taking the drink and sipping it.

"I take my job seriously."

"I can see that... I hope you have a good night. I'll probably see you for a few more of these."

"Alright enjoy your night." Miranda nodded, before walking outside.

"Bailey I'm glad you could make it." Richard greeted, pulling her into a hug. He was worried about her for the past couple of days. She seemed to be distant and not herself. She didn't seem happy.

"Sir you're acting like it's your party." She laughed.

"No, I just know that you don't come outside."

"I do... sometimes."

"Barely." He chuckled.

"That's not true. I go out with you all the time. We dominate at trivia night."