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Standing behind the bar rinsing glasses and placing them in the dishwasher, Dan watched the patrons come and go. He wanted his customers to walk away talking about how great the food was, the happy, obliging waitresses, and the unique drinks on the menu.
The place was buzzing, a mix of regulars and those who had come into town for the rodeo. Even if he couldn’t greet every guest personally, he always turned his head to shoot them a smile and a nod when he heard the bell above the door. Looking across, his happy expressions abruptly faded and his heart skipped.
Standing at the hostess station was Duke Elwood, one of his best clients, and one of his worst. Big John.
CHAPTER TWENTY-SIX
Not taking his eyes off Big John’s hulking figure, Dan started the dishwasher then walked briskly over to the door, though he wasn’t sure what to say and who to speak with first. The question was answered when Duke stepped forward.
“Dan, can I have a private word?”
“Sure, as long as your friend stays right where he is or goes outside.”
“I’ll wait outside,” John offered, quickly walking out the door.
“Join me at the bar, Duke. What are you drinkin’?”
“Thanks, but, first, can we talk about John?”
“There’s not a lot to talk about.”
“He feels real bad about what happened. He told me the whole story on the way over here.”
“Did he mention it took three deputies to tackle him?”
“He did, and that he’d gotten mad at a guy who was with his ex-girlfriend and that’s why he lost it. But he really misses this place and he’s hoping you’ll give him another chance.”
“Duke, I consider you a friend, and I enjoy shootin’ the breeze with you, but I’m not sure you know all there is to know about Big John. When he drinks he has a mean temper, and it could be over just about anything.”
“What if he just sticks to beer and has no more than three? A guy his size can’t get wasted on three beers. We just want to sit down and enjoy one of your amazing steaks and those awesome spicy fries.”
“Okay, Duke, for you, but that’s the deal. No hard alcohol and a max of three beers. Regular size. Got it?”
“Got it, and thanks, I owe you one.”
“Duke, let me give you a piece of advice. If he wants to rope you into one of his schemes, you’re too busy with your dad’s dealership.”
“Schemes?”
“Yeah, he’s had quite a history with schemes and they’ve never ended well, not for him, or the other people involved. Your decision, but it’s only right to give you fair warning.”
“Okay, thanks, Dan, I’ll bear that in mind. I’m not much into investing or getting involved in complicated projects. That’s my dad. I like things simple.”
“Glad to hear it. Feel free to take your favorite table in the back.”
“Will do, and thanks again.”
As Dan watched him walk back to the door, it opened and Rick Campbell came in with Bailey Martin and two other young women. He noticed a moment of awkwardness as Duke and Rick passed each other, but it was fleeting, and the hostess led Rick and the girls to a table. When Rick looked over to him and shot him a wave, Dan waved back. Rick’s guests were attractive, and besides being a friend, Rick was a celebrated bull rider. Having him seen in his restaurant was good for business.
But a moment later, Duke returned with Big John. Dan saw both men notice the attractive young women. Hoping he hadn’t just made a mistake, he watched them walk past Rick’s table. Though the two men smiled, they didn’t stop to talk…and Dan let out a relieved sigh.
* * *
“Thanks for gettin’ me in, Duke,” John said quietly as he sat down. “If you ever find yourself in a scrape I’m your man. Just call me.”
“It was no big deal, and I’m sorry you can’t drink anything but beer.”
“Are you kiddin’? I’m just glad to be back. This is the only decent place around here to hang out, and no-one grills a steak like the cook in Dan’s kitchen.”
