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Now, I'm not one to be able to turn down gadgets, and Jack plays on my weaknesses. I've been using a push mower for the past few years, so this would save me time, and since money isn't an object, I get it. Within moments, he has his guys loading the expensive beast into the back of my truck and of course I purchase ramps to get that sucker out safely. After I pay my five thousand dollar bill, Jack smiles and waves goodbye and I climb into my truck. Every time I come into town, I'm pretty sure I pay his rent for the quarter, which I'm happy to do.
Shark cocks his head at me, as though asking if I have buyer’s remorse.
“No regrets.” I pet him with a smile. The hardware store didn't take as long as I thought it would, even with the extra purchases. I'm happy about that because I still need to go grocery shopping, get Shark's treat at Ethel's, and buy some liquor. Even though I'd like to get all these things out of the way and go home to finish cutting trees, I still need to eat. My stomach growls so loud, Shark barks when he hears it. In light of being famished, I decide to stop at the first place I see. Slowing down, I turn into the parking lot of Whitefish Café, a place I've only seen in passing. I've been to a lot of fancy cafés growing up in Chicago, but this one has that hometown flair to it. It's inviting with its green awning, flower planters, and patio tables.
After I park, I put a leash on Shark then open the door for him. A woman is standing outside by the door who has the café logo on her shirt. I contemplate speaking with her but round up some courage and ask the petite blonde about Shark.
“Can my dog sit with me out here?”
She eyes me up and down and licks her lips like I'm the sweetest candy she's ever tasted. I haven't had anyone look at me with interest in a long time, so I'm somewhat surprised considering how I look at the moment.
“Of course you can.” She hands me a plastic menu with hooded eyes. I give her a quick smile and sit in the sun, and try to soak up as much as I can. My mom used to slather me in sunscreen because she always said The Williams’ never get tan. Well, I put that to rest. My skin in the summer is more of an olive complexion from spending most of my days outside.
I situate myself at a small table at the edge of the patio. The woman glances over at me, and she looks like she wants to put my napkin on my lap. Shark benefits from her enthusiasm as well, because she eventually brings over a bowl of water for him to drink. He's very appreciative and starts drinking away.
She looks at me and smirks. “Want some coffee?”
I pop an eyebrow at her. “Sure. Black.”
I like the simple thing in life. Nothing fancy, no frills, just the basic stuff. Since moving to Montana, that's how I eat, drink, and live. Back in Chicago, my parents made sure everything was extravagant and reeked of wealth. They loved the fanciest cuisines from around the world, elegant wines, and would only drink sparkling mineral waters that were alkalized in France along with other expensive nonsense. At the cabin, I drink filtered water from the land and often hunt for my food. I’m living the way I’ve always wanted.
The woman brings over my cup of coffee, and I take a sip of the hot brew. As she walks away, I feel awkward, not sure what to do with myself. If I go to the Mountain Brewery for a Guinness at least I can drink a beer in silence and watch sports. It's perfectly reasonable to do that, but to sit outdoors at a café with Shark, I feel out of place.
As I'm browsing the menu, the sound of dishes crashing to the ground pulls my attention away. A waitress is kneeling to pick up the pieces. She's obviously flustered about it, and I rush over to assist any way I can.
“Are you okay?” I ask her softly, but she only nods while avoiding my gaze.
She reaches for the same piece as I do and we both pull our hands back.
“Sorry,” she mutters. “I swear I’m not always this clumsy. My manager is going to chew my ass out for this.”
I grab the rest of the shattered pieces and put them on her tray. “Accidents happen. I’m sure he’ll understand.”
Groaning, she sets the tray on a nearby table and sighs when a busboy arrives with a dustpan and sweeps up the small pieces.
“Hopefully. I can’t afford another dip into my paycheck.”
Standing, I hold my arm out to help her up and when she looks up at me, my breath hitches.
She's stunning even with her chocolate brown hair tossed up in a messy bun. It's hard not to notice her beauty and toned body. She places her hand in mine and when I help her to her feet, the air stills between us. Heat hits her cheeks, and I know she's embarrassed.
My stomach is growling, and I need to eat, but I can't stop looking at her. There aren't a lot of people in the café because it's a few hours after lunch, so maybe she's the only server at the moment, or at least I find myself hoping so.
“Thank you,” she finally speaks. “I appreciate your help.”
“My pleasure.”
“I’ll be right back to take your order,” she tells me, lowering her eyes to where our hands are still touching.
“Yes, of course.” I release her hand and walk back to my table to where Shark is eagerly waiting for me.
I pet his hand, noticing how much calmer he looks now that he's hydrated.
“You feel better, buddy?” I ask. Rubbing my sweaty palms
“That’s a huge dog,” a soft recognizable voice says, and I turn to find the waitress standing over me. I notice how close she is and I can almost smell the sweetness of her skin.
“He’s just a big ole’ puppy though.” I look up at her and smiles.
