A Very Special Lunch Date, Part Two
By Jeanette A. Fratto, Orange County Branch
(Continued from last month’s Part One)
It took her a moment to adjust to the dimly lit room, but just as the maitre’d wanted to seat her, she waved him off. “I see my party over there.” Carol headed directly to their corner table for two, pulled an empty chair from the adjacent table, and joined them. Marie looked puzzled. Bill, who’d just taken a sip of wine, almost choked. His flailing arm knocked over his water glass.
“Sorry I’m late, that freeway traffic, you know.” Carol extended her hand to Marie, avoiding Bill. “I’m Carol, Bill’s wife. Thought maybe you’d like to meet me. I sure want to meet you.” Bill looked like he might faint and for once was speechless. He started to stand, then sat, perspiration beading on his forehead.
Marie stood and threw her napkin on the table. “You have a wife? You’re not a widower who’s looking for someone to fill the hole in your heart? Someone should fill the hole in your head.” She grabbed her purse and stalked off. Carol moved to her empty chair.
“Shall we order something before we talk? I’m starved.” Carol picked up the menu, ignoring Bill, who looked like he needed CPR. As she perused the menu she couldn’t help smiling. He’d bounce back, but this time Carol was in the driver’s seat.