VELVET

GOTTA LOVE A GIRL WITH AN APPETITE
The thought of having to buy his dinner at a drive-thru window didn’t bother him in the least. It was the fact that he left Hope’s with an empty stomach, heavy hands, and before night’s end, very tired eyes. None of the fast food restaurants appealed to him, and why would they? He just had a picture perfect plate of food in front of him, and for all intents and purposes, had to walk away. What he needed was something flavorful and calorie-laden that would make up for the days shortcomings.
He looked at his phone and knew he was pressing his luck. But he made the right decision. Dara agreed without hesitation. She would meet him there. Her day had been no better than his, and they both had a hankering for whatever Tessa prepared for them.
*
“I’ll have a double cheeseburger…loaded, and fries.” She tapped her fingers on the menu. “And I know I’m having desert, so please save me a big piece of pound cake.”
Chuck was in love. He didn’t know whether to reach over and kiss her, or applaud her quick and masterful ordering skills. “I’ll have what she’s having.”
The waiter nodded and left them alone. Chuck was happy he would finally get to spend the evening with Dara.
“So, I hope you don’t mind talking ad nauseam about your day, because I can’t stomach anymore of mine.”
He gave her a recap, ending with the stack of photos on the table. She hopped out of her seat and plopped down next to him.
“C’mon, let’s see.” Dara took a few pictures from the stack and looked them over. “I’m sure I’ll know just about everybody, considering people like Tonya rarely ventured outside of their circles.”
He had to concentrate. But how could he? Her perfume, the softness of her arm, everything about her was intoxicating. He was in trouble. Breathe brother. Just breathe.
“Hey,” she snapped her fingers in front of him. “Earth to Chuck. I told you I would know most of these people. Hmm. I wonder why she’s there.”