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“Shit. Did you leave it at the bar?” she asked.
“Yeah. I called.”
“They’re open?”
“Yes. Could you do me a huge favor and get it? My driver’s license is in my wallet, and I have Zoe. I can’t risk getting caught driving without it.”
“Sure. I’ve got to check on Dad and then I’ll head over.”
“Thanks,” I said.
“No problem. I’ll see you in a bit.”
Avery was the absolute best friend a girl could have. When a little over an hour and a half later she hadn’t arrived, I called her.
“Haley, I’m on my way,” Avery answered.
“Did you get lost?”
“Not exactly.”
Her answer was a little too cryptic. “Not exactly what?”
She sighed. “I ran into Nathaniel Bowmen.”
“Uh-huh. And what? You lost your panties and your mind along the way?” The sarcasm dripped from each of my words.
“No. I gave him a ride.”
That was more than a little surprising. I wasn’t the only one with a grudge against the Bowmens. Her father hated them, too. “You gave him a ride.” I couldn’t stop the accusation in my voice.
“He was wasted, and I couldn’t let him drive himself home.”
“Wasted at this time of day? He’s an even bigger turd than the reports say he is.”
“Just call it my good deed of the day. I’ll be at your house soon. I have your wallet,” she said.
“Oh, thank you, thank you, thank you.” I hated to ask, but I did it anyway. “Can I ask you another favor?”
“Sure.”
“Can you watch Zoe? Mom said she can’t, and I need to go in for my shift.” If she couldn’t, I’d have to bring Zoe. I didn’t make enough to pay for a babysitter.
“I’ll stop at home first to check on my dad before I come by, okay?”
I breathed a sigh of relief. “Sure thing, and thanks, Avery. You’re a lifesaver.”
“You know it’s no biggie. I love Zoe.”
After we hung up, I got a quick shower and got ready for work. I made it to the diner on time. When I walked in, I spotted a familiar man in booth eleven.
FOUR
Lucky for me,Mr. Fancy Pants was already being served by Honey. I took over counter duties for those who weren’t sitting at booths. I worked and did my best not to make eye contact with the man.
Just like the time before, he stayed in the booth long after the morning rush. Honey was leaving for her break between her split shift.
“Table eleven,” she began.
