The Walks of Life

Chapter Eleven

Haden walked into the club slowly. The bouncer eyed him, but Haden ignored him. He was old enough to come into the club. He just wasn't old enough to buy alcohol. The bouncer nodded and Haden nodded back at him.

Haden avoided any gazes or catcalls as he walked by groups of ladies. He glanced at the floor when he walked by the platform. Women danced on poles and men yelled in excitement.

"Hey, Mister," A woman grabbed his arm and swung him around to face her. She was obviously a woman of the night. "You need a date tonight."

"I'm sorry," Haden shook his head. "I'm hear to find a friend."

"Suit yourself," she purred. "I'm here if you change your mind."

Haden turned quickly and made his way to the back of the club. That's when he saw Jason. He was sitting at a far table by himself drinking something. Haden walked over and sat down in  the chair across from him. Jason looked up startled but then relaxed. He frowned at Haden and took a drink of his drink.

"What are you doing in this disgusting place?" Haden asked after a few moments of silence.

"No one I know comes in here," Jason shrugged. "I can get a drink when I need to be alone without worrying about being found."

"Not a very foolproof plan," Haden observed.

"Apparently not," Jason shrugged again. "But you probably figured I would end up in a bar."

"This isn't a bar," Haden frowned. "What's wrong, Jason?"

"Where is your son?" Jason asked, ignoring his question.

"My dad is watching him for me," Haden answered. "I wanted to come find you and see why you were so upset with me."

"It's not you," Jason sighed. "I feel so ridiculous. I'm sorry I got so angry."

"Is it Olivia?" Haden asked.

"Huh?" Jason looked confused for a second and then he realized what he meant. "Oh. Ya. Olivia-uh-ya."

"That was not convincing in the slightest," Haden gave him a look and Jason grinned sheepishly.

"Come on, Haden," Jason threw his hands up. "Can't you give me privacy on this one matter?"

"Yes, but I'm here to help," Haden explained. "I-"

"Hey, Gentleman," A female bartender came up to them. "Can I get you two something else?"

"Nothing for me thanks," Haden shook his head.

"I'll take two more of these," Jason handed her his glass. She walked away with it. Haden looked like he was about to question Jason for getting two more, but Jason answered before he got a chance to say something. "One of them is for you, Genius."

"That's technically illegal," Haden smirked. "Thanks. As I was saying, I think you have something you need to get off your chest. You haven't been yourself lately."

"I'm not as brave as you," Jason put his elbows on the table and leaned forward in his chair.

"I am a little lost," Haden raised an eyebrow at his sudden remark.