Page:Jay Little - Maybe—Tomorrow.pdf/203

 She stopped when Paul's finger went to his mouth. She coughed trying to cover up … "Damn this smoke … Well, anyway, this dog left me for someone more refined. I cried and screamed and it didn't do a damn bit of good … He left anyway …" She looked from one to the other. "Didn't you, darling?"

"Dusty, you're a card and I love you. You'll always be in my heart … How about another drink?"

"I need more than your heart, honey. You know what a sexy bitch I am. Know any old body who wants to sleep with an actress tonight? And I'll take another drink since you're such a gentleman darling."

She looked away again and called to Freddie across the room at another table. "Hey, Freddie! This actress needs another drink and so do these two smart gentlemen. Make it quick … I haven't much time." Dusty pulled between her legs. "Damn, this G-string is killing me. Shouldn't have washed it … and these damn rhinestones pinch like crabs … damn things bite."

Gaylord was only human and even with the wonderful glow inside, he looked at Dusty with alarm, interest and admiration. She didn't seem to care what she said. It was fun to watch her; hear the rustle of her dress … watch the dancing eyes …

She saw the bewildered look in his eyes. "Here I'm rattling like a common bitch," she said to him … "You think I'm awful …?" She puckered her mouth into a cupid bow and looked at him from under heavily beaded eyelashes.

"I think you're wonderful, Dusty." He didn't know her last name. It didn't matter, for none was needed.

"Paul," cried Dusty, handing him the large square of silk. "Go do my number. I'm going to sit right here and make love to Gay … Then I'm going to take him to my crib and … I'm keeping the rest a secret."

"Oh, no you're not …" Paul laughed, in fact they all laughed. "I thought you said you were going to be a lady."

"It's so hard for me."

"I know that." He lifted his glass and swallowed his drink. The liquor was bad … He placed the empty glass on the table. Said, "How about Gene's party? You going?"

"I'll probably make a late entrance," she answered. "That is, if