The Click Trilogy (35 page)

I told that to Ethan on our first date.  It means something like you can’t just pass if you want to score – you have to run the ball too.

From: Shelley Manning – September 12, 2012 – 3:59 PM

To: Renee Greene

Subject: Re: Tell it to me straight!

Check you out!  I had no idea you were so well-versed in football.  Impressive!  (And here I was boasting that I knew you so well.  Shame on me, right?) You’ll need to teach me.  Guys love it when a chick can talk sports.

From: Renee Greene – September 12, 2012 – 4:05 PM

To: Shelley Manning

Subject: Re: Tell it to me straight!

Ethan too was VERY impressed when I said that on our first date.  Sadly, it’s the only thing I know to say about football.  When we watched a game together and I kept saying that over and over, he came to realize it was all a big sham.  Fortunately, he was already smitten by then.  ;)  But back to the matter at hand.  Ethan is NEVER to know of this, okay?

From: Shelley Manning – September 12, 2012 – 4:09 PM

To: Renee Greene

Subject: Re: Tell it to me straight!

And
there’s
the Renee I know and love.  Shame on
you
instead, right?

Regarding Ethan…Okay, but I think he would want to know you are a bit disappointed with the proposal.  He probably doesn’t even realize something’s amiss.

From: Renee Greene – September 12, 2012 – 4:11 PM

To: Shelley Manning

Subject: Re: Tell it to me straight!

Everything with us is great and we shall never speak of this again.

From: Shelley Manning – September 12, 2012 – 4:13 PM

To: Renee Greene

Subject: Re: Tell it to me straight!

Lips are sealed.  Okay Sweetie.  They’re calling my row.  I’ll call you from Seattle.  Mwah! Mwah!

From: Renee Greene – September 12, 2012 – 4:14 PM

To: Shelley Manning

Subject: Re: Tell it to me straight!

Safe travels, Shel.

Chapter 14 – Shit Hits The Fan

From: Renee Greene – September 14, 2012 – 9:54 AM

To: Shelley Manning, Mark Finlay, Ashley Gordon, cassidy, PBCupLover

Subject: Get Schooled!

Call me Professor Greene!  I was just invited to be a one-time guest lecturer for an Intro to PR class at USC.  Those youngins are gonna get schooled!

From: PBCupLover – September 14, 2012 – 10:22 AM

To: Renee Greene

Cc: Shelley Manning, Mark Finlay, Ashley Gordon, cassidy

Subject: Re: Get Schooled!

When I saw the first line, I thought, Professor Greene?  As in, Professor Greene did it in the study with the candlestick?

From: Shelley Manning – September 14, 2012 – 10:26 AM

To: PBCupLover

Cc: Renee Greene, Mark Finlay, Ashley Gordon, cassidy

Subject: Re: Get Schooled!

That sounds very dirty!  I like it.  Well done, Lil Pita.

From: PBCupLover – September 14, 2012 – 10:27 AM

To: Renee Greene

Subject: Fwd: Re: Get Schooled!

Lucy, you got some ‘splainin’ to do!

From: Renee Greene – September 14, 2012 – 10:29 AM

To: PBCupLover

Subject: Re: Fwd: Re: Get Schooled!

Ugh!  I may have let it slip that you used to be Lil Pita.

From: PBCupLover – September 14, 2012 – 10:31 AM

To: Renee Greene

Subject: Re: Fwd: Re: Get Schooled!

Can’t believe I’m about to say this, but it’s better than knowing you were calling me the Cuddler behind my back.

From: cassidy – September 14, 2012 – 10:32 AM

To: Shelley Manning

Cc: Renee Greene, Mark Finlay, Ashley Gordon, PBCupLover

Subject: Re: Get Schooled!

thats great renee.  so excited for you.

h’s & k’s,

cassidy

From: Renee Greene – September 14, 2012 – 10:33 AM

To: PBCupLover

Subject: Re: Fwd: Re: Get Schooled!

I still feel terrible about that, you know.

From: PBCupLover – September 14, 2012 – 10:36 AM

To: Renee Greene

Subject: Re: Fwd: Re: Get Schooled!

I know, but now you can spend the rest of the weekend…and your life…making up for it.

From: Renee Greene – September 14, 2012 – 10:38 AM

To: PBCupLover

Subject: Re: Fwd: Re: Get Schooled!

I will.  XOXO!!!

From: Mark Finlay – September 14, 2012 – 11:02 AM

To: Renee Greene, Shelley Manning, cassidy, Ashley Gordon, PBCupLover

Subject: Re: Get Schooled!

Ditto from me.  Those students will be really lucky to have someone young and enthusiastic to warn them away from going into PR.  Ha! Ha!

From: Shelley Manning – September 14, 2012 – 11:35 AM

To: Renee Greene

Subject: Fwd: Re: Get Schooled!

I’m judging by the silence of email chatter that I messed up by calling him Lil Pita, no?

From: Renee Greene – September 14, 2012 – 11:42 AM

To: Shelley Manning

Subject: Re: Fwd: Re: Get Schooled!

Well, probably not the best time to let it slip, my big-mouthed friend.  But he’s cool.  He decided he liked it better than “The Cuddler.”  Now I just need to make it up to him this weekend.

From: Renee Greene – September 14, 2012 – 11:44 AM

To: Mark Finlay

Cc: Shelley Manning, cassidy, Ashley Gordon, PBCupLover

Subject: Re: Get Schooled!

So true, Mark.  I certainly don’t want them to think it’s all schmoozing and fun.  I remember this intern whose dad worked for the firm.  He thought he was going to be attending client meetings and doing lunches like his pop.  He sat for hours a day pasting up clips from newspapers…and did a crappy job of it, at that.  Rude awakening, indeed!

From: Shelley Manning – September 14, 2012 – 11:47 AM

To: Renee Greene

Subject: Re: Fwd: Re: Get Schooled!

First of all, that big mouth comes in handy sometimes.  And no, I’m not making some double entendre.  But it really works nicely as one.  Give me a second while I congratulate myself on my impeccable sense of humor.  Okay, back now.  I’m such a dirty girl.  Don’t you just love it?  Anyway, you should be thanking me.  You need to “make it up to him” this weekend.  I think that’s code for really awesome sex.  And considering you two were just arguing about how you never have time for each other, I’ve given you the perfect excuse to make time for one another.  Seriously, I should be a couple’s counselor.

From: Renee Greene – September 14, 2012 – 11:52 AM

To: Shelley Manning

Subject: Re: Fwd: Re: Get Schooled!

If this were a movie, I would have taken a spit-take.  Now THAT was hilarious.

From: Shelley Manning – September 14, 2012 – 11:59AM

To: Renee Greene

Subject: Re: Fwd: Re: Get Schooled!

A spit-take?  That sounds dirty too.  I’m rubbing off on you.  Another thing that sounds dirty.  My goodness.  It’s a wonder I get any work done, right?  I have to go.  All of this talk is making me a bit randy.  Let’s see how I can take my lunch break to satisfy some “hunger.” I’ll call you later.  Mwah! Mwah!

From: Renee Greene – September 14, 2012 – 12:01 PM

To: Shelley Manning

Subject: Re: Fwd: Re: Get Schooled!

I really don’t know how you get anything done.  But I’m glad I get to be a part of it.  Talk soon!

From: Ashley Gordon – September 14, 2012 – 3:20 PM

To: Mark Finlay

Cc: Shelley Manning, cassidy, Renee Greene, PBCupLover

Subject: Re: Get Schooled!

How fun, Renee.  I’m sure you’ll be great.  Just be sure to wear your black pant suit.  It’s the one that looks best on you.

From: Renee Greene – September 14, 2012 – 3:25 PM

To: Ashley Gordon

Subject: Re: Get Schooled!

Thanks for the vote of confidence and vote for wardrobe choice.  Call you later to check in!

From: Mark Finlay – September 17, 2012 – 8:52 AM

To: Renee Greene, Shelley Manning, PBCupLover, Ashley Gordon, Greg Gordon

Cc: cassidy

Subject: Marathon Madness!

Hi guys.  On the heels of Renee’s exciting news about helping teach a class, wanted to tell you Cass is running a marathon on Saturday alongside a client.  A marathon?!?  That’s more than 26 miles.  Hoping you guys can meet us at the finish line in Santa Monica afterward to grab some lunch – say around 12:30/1:00.  Let me know.

From: Renee Greene – September 17, 2012 – 9:03 AM

To: Mark Finlay

Cc: Shelley Manning, PBCupLover, Ashley Gordon, Greg Gordon, cassidy

Subject: Re:  Marathon Madness!

That’s AMAZING.  Good for you Cassidy.  I don’t even
drive
26 miles without a break.

Sadly, Ethan and I will have to pass.  As you know, we have our little engagement dinner that night and will be super busy putting together the “finishing” touches.  But we’ll be thinking of you at the “finish” line.   Get it?  Good luck!

From: Ashley Gordon – September 17, 2012 – 10:45 AM

To: Renee Greene

Cc: Mark Finlay, Shelley Manning, PBCupLover, Greg Gordon, cassidy

Subject: Re:  Marathon Madness!

We will have to take a pass, too.  Technically, I’m on bed rest.  But I couldn’t miss the engagement dinner.  I’m resting up so I can sit at the party and watch you all drink and dance.  Sounds fun, huh?  Best of luck, Cassidy.  I’m sure you’ll do great.

From: Shelley Manning – September 17, 2012 – 2:02 PM

To: Ashley Gordon

Cc: Mark Finlay, Renee Greene, PBCupLover, Greg Gordon, cassidy

Subject: Re:  Marathon Madness!

Sorry I won’t be able to join you.  Good luck.

From: cassidy – September 17, 2012 – 2:53 PM

To: Shelley Manning

Cc: Mark Finlay, Renee Greene, PBCupLover, Ashley Gordon, Greg Gordon

Subject: Re: Marathon Madness!

thanks to all of you for the well wishes, ill let you know how i do.

h’s & k’s,

cassidy

From: Renee Greene – September 21, 2012 – 9:03 AM

To:

Cc: PBCupLover

Subject: Engage in Some Fun!

Super excited to see you all tomorrow night.  Thanks in advance for helping us celebrate our engagement.  And a quick public shout out to my friend Cassidy who is running a marathon tomorrow.  Just Do (Great)!

From: cassidy – September 21, 2012 – 11:30 AM

To: Renee Greene

Cc: PBCupLover

Subject: Re: Engage in Some Fun!

thanks renee.  you are so kind.  see you tomorrow.

h’s & k’s,

cassidy

From: Shelley Manning – September 21, 2012 – 2:22 PM

To: Renee Greene

Subject: Just being polite

I already know the answer to this question, but need to ask anyway.  Do you need any help for tomorrow?  Yes, I know.  You’re probably insulted, thinking that I think you think I think you aren’t prepared.  But seriously, I’m just being polite.  So even if you do need help, please don’t ask me.  I don’t have the time.

From: Renee Greene – September 21, 2012 – 2:45 PM

To: Shelley Manning

Subject: Re: Just being polite

How dare you!  ;)  I appreciate the hollow gesture.  You’re a great friend.

From: Shelley Manning – September 21, 2012 – 2:47 PM

To: Renee Greene

Subject: Re: Just being polite

I know.

From: Renee Greene – September 21, 2012 – 2:50 PM

To: Shelley Manning

Subject: Re: Just being polite

Don’t get cocky.  Oh wait. I shouldn’t open the door like that for you.

From: Shelley Manning – September 21, 2012 – 2:51 PM

To: Renee Greene

Subject: Re: Just being polite

Yuck it up, lady.  Mwah! Mwah!

From: cassidy – September 22, 2012 – 1:07 PM

To: Mark Finlay, Renee Greene, Shelley Manning, PBCupLover, Ashley Gordon, Greg Gordon

Subject: Re: Marathon Madness!

well finished in 4 hours, 43 minutes, my personal best.  yay for me!

hey, my momma used to say if you don’t toot your own horn, someone else will use it as spittoon.

h’s & k’s,

cassidy

From: Renee Greene – September 22, 2012 – 1:11 PM

To: Cassidy

Cc: Mark Finlay, Shelley Manning, PBCupLover, Ashley Gordon, Greg Gordon

Subject: Re: Marathon Madness!

That’s fantastic, Cassidy.  Congrats.  Looking forward to celebrating with you tonight.  We’ll make a special toast to your accomplishment.

From: Ashley Gordon – September 22, 2012 – 1:18 PM

To: Renee Greene

Cc: cassidy, Mark Finlay, Shelley Manning, PBCupLover, Greg Gordon

Subject: Re: Marathon Madness!

Ditto from us.  Quite impressive.

From: Shelley Manning – September 22, 2012 – 1:25 PM

To:

Cc: Renee Greene, Ashley Gordon, cassidy

Subject: Re: Marathon Madness!

Does that give me permission to spit on her?

From: Renee Greene – September 22, 2012 – 1:26 PM

To: Shelley Manning

Subject: Fwd:  Re: Marathon Madness!

Uh, do you realize Cassidy was on that email?

From: Shelley Manning – September 22, 2012 – 1:32 PM

To: Renee Greene

Subject: Fwd:  Re: Marathon Madness!

FUCK!  The shit’s really gonna hit the fan now, huh?   You know, I just read something on Facebook: “Don't worry about people talking behind your back, it just means that you are one step ahead of them and they are facing exactly in the right direction to kiss your ass!”  Maybe she can toughen up a bit?

From: Renee Greene – September 22, 2012 – 1:32 PM

To: Shelley Manning

Subject: Fwd:  Re: Marathon Madness!

Good luck with that one.

From: cassidy – September 22, 2012 – 1:35 PM

To: Mark Finlay

Subject: Fwd:  Re: Marathon Madness!

see!  i told you!  they hate me.  why do they hate me?

h’s & k’s,

cassidy

From: Shelley Manning – September 22, 2012 – 1:38 PM

To: cassidy, Renee Greene, Ashley Gordon

Subject: Re: Marathon Madness!

Hey Cassidy.  Just joking.  Running a marathon, and in your best time ever, is really a great accomplishment.  Cheers to you.

From: Mark Finlay – September 22, 2012 – 2:02 PM

To: Renee Greene, Shelley Manning, Ashley Gordon

Subject: Fwd: Fwd:  Re: Marathon Madness!

What’s going on?  Cass has been telling me for months that you guys hate her and I’ve been reassuring her that it’s all in her head.  How could you guys not love her as much as I do?  Then I see this email.  I don’t get it.  I know you ladies can be a bit catty, but why don’t you like Cass?  Why would you do this to her…and to me?  She doesn’t want to come tonight because she’s convinced you guys hate her.

From: Renee Greene – September 22, 2012 – 2:06 PM

To: Mark Finlay

Cc: Shelley Manning, Ashley Gordon

Subject: Re: Fwd: Fwd:  Re: Marathon Madness!

Oh, Mark!  I’m so sorry that Cassidy saw that.  We don’t hate her.  We’re so happy that you found someone you love.  I would be devastated if you weren’t there tonight.  Gosh, I  wouldn’t have met Ethan if it weren’t for you.  You’ve got to come.  What can I do to make things right?

From: Shelley Manning – September 22, 2012 – 2:10 PM

To: Renee Greene

Cc: Mark Finlay, Ashley Gordon

Subject: Re: Fwd: Fwd:  Re: Marathon Madness!

Blame me, Finlay.  Renee and Ashley have been nothing but lovely to her.  I’ve just been a bitch…well…because I’m a bitch.  You know it.  I know it.  Cassidy should know it.  I’ll call her now and apologize sincerely.  Despite what you might think, I can be rather charming and will smooth things over.  I’ll see you both tonight at Renee and Ethan’s party.

From: Mark Finlay– September 22, 2012 – 2:15 PM

To: Shelley Manning

Cc: Renee Greene, Ashley Gordon

Subject: Re: Fwd: Fwd:  Re: Marathon Madness!

Thanks, Shelley.  I really want you guys to like her.  No, I want you to love her like I do.  I appreciate you taking responsibility for your mean comment and making amends.  See you tonight.

From: Shelley Manning – September 22, 2012 – 2:17 PM

To:

Cc: Renee Greene, Ashley Gordon

Subject: Re: Fwd: Fwd:  Re: Marathon Madness!

Okay, I was very careful about removing Finlay from this reply.  Did you both notice he called us “catty?”  I thought he was a dog person.  She’s even got him using “cat” expressions now.  Sheesh!

From: Ashley Gordon – September 22, 2012 – 2:20 PM

To: Shelley Manning

Cc: Renee Greene

Subject: Re: Fwd: Fwd:  Re: Marathon Madness!

Why the heck am I getting dragged into this cat fight?  I didn’t say anything mean about her.

From: Shelley Manning – September 22, 2012 – 2:22 PM

To: Ashley Gordon

Cc: Renee Greene

Subject: Re: Fwd: Fwd:  Re: Marathon Madness!

You didn’t say anything mean about her…to her face, Ashley.

From: Renee Greene – September 22, 2012 – 2:30 PM

To: Shelley Manning

Cc: Ashley Gordon

Subject: Re: Fwd: Fwd:  Re: Marathon Madness!

Ladies!  Ladies!  First off, I didn’t notice the “catty” comment per se, but that is a hilarious and astute observation.  But back to important matters.  Mark is in love with Cassidy.  They are probably going to get married.  She is going to be in our lives forever.  So we just need to get used to her, enjoy her lovely qualities – of which there are many – and ignore the things that we don’t quite care for.

From: Ashley Gordon – September 22, 2012 – 2:31 PM

To: Renee Greene

Cc: Shelley Manning

Subject: Re: Fwd: Fwd:  Re: Marathon Madness!

Agreed.

From: Shelley Manning – September 22, 2012 – 2:32 PM

To: Ashley Gordon

Cc: Renee Greene

Subject: Re: Fwd: Fwd:  Re: Marathon Madness!

Agreed (reluctantly!)