Zen let go of Fred only to place his hand on his shoulder. “This is Fred Munson.”
Anthony nodded and turned back to Zen. “Justin’s not driving? I didn’t see his name in the papers.”
“Nah, he’ll meet up with us in Manheim, but he had some things he had to do this week.” Zen glanced at Fred who once again was studying the floor.
Anthony rubbed his mouth and nodded again. “I’ll go report you’re here.”
Zen guided Fred toward the bar with a hand at the small of his back.
“Zen!” Several of the other drivers came to meet him. There were hugs and handshakes, friendly bantering, and snide comments. A beer ended up in his hand, and when he turned to introduce Fred, he was nowhere to be seen. Fuck
Zen scanned the room, took a sip of his beer, and moved through the serving area. Fred was still nowhere to be seen.