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I nod and Rachel says, “Thank you,” and I lead her up the stairs. I motion for her to go through the door first, and she does, taking the seat she sat in last time we were here together.
“Do you need the menu?” I offer as I unbutton my jacket and take my seat.
“No, I don’t think so.” She settles in, covering her lap with her napkin.
The doors open and Chester bustles in with a beaming grin.
“Jack, Rachel. I’m so happy to see you two arriving together this evening. Seems like it’s much less awkward when we know who’s coming.” He winks at Rachel, and she laughs softly.
“Nice to see you too, Chester.”
“I must say, I agree. No surprises tonight. At least not for me.” I wink at Rachel, and she sticks her tongue out at me.
“What are we having tonight, then?” Chester beams between the two of us.
“I’ll have the chicken tenders and french fries,” Rachel declares without hesitation.
“I was expecting that.” The old man nods, turning toward me.
“I’ll have the cheeseburger again. It was really good,” I admit.
“And to drink?”
“Sweet tea for me.” Rachel looks to me and I nod.
“Same for me.”
“I’ll get your order in right away, and I’ll have your drinks up in a jiffy.”
“Thank you, Chester.”
He disappears through the doors but then pokes his head back in. “I do have one more question, Jack.”
“Alright.”
“Your mother…”
It’s a sign as to how much I’ve already accomplished that I don’t panic at those words. Rachel must notice as well, because she squeezes my hand.
“Yes?”
“Your mother has asked me out on a date. I just wanted you to be aware that I’ve said yes.”
He disappears quickly, and I jerk my head toward Rachel, shocked. “That was not what I expected him to say.”
“Hey, more power to him.” Rachel laughs. “She’s one tough lady.”
“I hope he doesn’t think he needs my permission. She’s a grown woman.”
“I think it was more of a respect thing, and that says a lot about him. Your mom could do so much worse than Chester. He’s a great guy.”
“You’ve met him once.” I glance at her incredulously.
Well, we’re friends on social media.” She shrugs.
The doors swing open, and Chester appears with our drinks, so we drop the subject. By the time dinner is over, I realize that Chester may be Rachel’s new best friend.
“Papaw says you need to add him on the word search game, by the way,” Rachel reminds him as we’re heading down the stairs. “Good night, Chester.”
