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Eddy didn’t either.
Sylvie said sympathetically, “Maybe it will cool down over time.”
“Or, I should have dinner with him and be done. Maybe that will be the cure I need.”
“Do you believe that?”
“No,” Eddy said. “But it sounds good.”
Sylvie chuckled. “Sorry I’m not more helpful but I can’t even figure out my own dilemma with Oliver, and that’s been ongoing for over a decade.”
Eddy was just glad to have someone to talk to. “Did he say when he wants his dinner?”
“No, but I almost fell over when he made that declaration.”
“Maybe you two will work things out.”
“We’ll see.”
There was silence for a moment before Sylvie turned to her and said, “I want you to consider something for me.”
“I’ll try.”
“I’m thinking of closing the dining room.”
Eddy froze. “Why?”
“Because your cooking’s bringing in way too many people and it’s putting a strain on the house and on me. I’m getting old.”
“But—”
“Now wait. Let me finish.”
Eddy nodded.
“What I’d like to do is open a larger place and have you run it as part owner.”
Surprise widened Eddy’s eyes.
“This is something I’ve been considering since that Sunday the diners descended upon us like locusts. There’s profit to be made, honey, and you are the golden goose. We need to strike while the iron’s hot.”
A dozen questions sprang to mind so quickly she wasn’t sure which one to ask first.
Sylvia must have seen the wonder in her eyes. “I take it you like the idea.”
“Yes, but I don’t have the funds to invest to be an owner.”
“That’s okay. I’ll take care of the investors and give them a small share of the profits in exchange. All you need do is cook. I’ve watched you, Eddy. You’re knowledgeable, efficient, and talented. Truth be told, it’s also my selfish way of keeping you here.”
Eddy smiled.
“I enjoy your company,” Sylvia continued.
“I enjoy you as well.”
“Good. Think about my proposal and we’ll talk more soon.” Sylvie stood. “I’m going over to Janet’s to get my hair done, then out to Aretha’s to help with her anniversary preparations. The party’s next weekend. You’re still going to make the cake, correct?”
“Correct.” Eddy looked up at Sylvie. “Thank you.” She’d gone from nearly dying in the desert to maybe having her dreams come true.
