Slow No Wake - By Dakota Madison Page 0,48

my sister, I saw she was glancing at the menu, but also peering over it every few seconds and eye flirting with Brad. He was certainly returning the gesture. I suddenly felt very much like the cliché’ third wheel.

“What’s good?” I asked, hoping Brad would respond. I didn’t want to interrupt the lovebirds in action, but I didn’t have a clue what to order.

Brad glanced in my direction. “Everything is good, but I would recommend the salmon or the ahi tuna salad. They’re both excellent.”

I closed my menu. “The ahi tuna salad it is.”

“I guess I’ll try the salmon then,” Hannah said, shutting her menu.

“Good choices,” Brad said, but he was clearing addressing my sister.

When the waiter came to take our orders, he also addressed Brad as Mr. Collins. Brad ordered for the three of us and the waiter took our menus and exited.

It may have been rude, but I was overcome with curiosity. “It seems like everyone who works here knows you pretty well.”

Brad gulped. He was clearly embarrassed and I regretted mentioning it. Finally, Brad said, “My parents own the restaurant.”

His eyes immediately went to Hannah to gauge her reaction.

“It’s a beautiful place,” Hannah said thoughtfully.

That seemed to calm Brad a bit. Then he continued. “They own several restaurants in town and some other businesses.”

I should have guessed that Brad came from a wealthy family. He had that air about him. It explained a lot.

Brad looked down at his napkin. “I’m an only child and my parent’s really wanted me to take over running the small business empire they built, but I just couldn’t. It’s not me. I’m too introverted and I don’t have the right personality or aptitude to be successful in that arena. So, my parent’s will probably sell everything in a few years when they retire. I’m enjoying the restaurants while I still can.”

I could see there was a bit of sadness in Brad’s eyes. I wondered if he felt like he let his parent’s down in some way. Maybe he felt as though he couldn’t live up to their expectations. Even though many people found him a bit off-putting and quirky, I appreciated him a bit more.

My sister, never one to hold back, said, “Don’t feel bad. I’ve never made my parent’s happy, either.”

When I glanced at Brad, he was actually smiling at my sister. They were certainly kindred spirits in a way I never imagined. I always found it interesting what deep needs and hidden traits actually drew people together, often unconsciously.

“Thank you for joining me for lunch,” Brad said to Hannah. “It really means a lot to me.”

“Thank you for inviting us,” Hannah replied.

The two couldn’t take their eyes off of each other for the rest of the meal.

***

Later that evening, Daniel took me for a long walk on the beach. The night air was warm and damp, but there was just enough gulf breeze to insure we wouldn’t get too hot. I was starting to love the fresh smell of ocean air and the sounds of the gulls as they passed by. I wondered how I had ever lived anywhere but near the sea.

“How was lunch with Brad?” Daniel asked stifling a laugh.

“It was actually really nice,” I said. “He took us to The Pier.”

Daniel stopped and gaped at me. “He took both of you to The Pier for lunch?” he repeated as if he hadn’t heard me correctly.

I nodded.

“Do they pay therapists that much more than intake counselors?” he asked in disbelief.

I laughed. “No, not at all. I certainly couldn’t afford to eat there. Brad does all the time.”

I knew I was teasing Daniel but then I felt badly because his expression turned grim. “I’m sorry I can’t afford to take you to a place that nice. Now I feel like a shit taking you to the cafeteria for lunch.”

I placed my hands on Daniel’s chest. “You don’t have to take me anywhere that fancy. It’s not my style anyway. As long as it means spending time with you, you could pack a peanut butter and jelly sandwich and take me to the park and I would be just as happy.”

Daniel looked into my eyes. “Are you sure?”

“Yes,” I assured him.

He leaned down and gave me a soft kiss.

“Brad’s parents own the restaurant,” I admitted.

Daniel went wide-eyed. “You’re kidding.”

I shook my head. “I guess they own several restaurants and shops.”

Daniel thought about this for a minute. “You know I’ll probably never be wealthy,” he said finally.

“And?” I said.

Daniel gulped. He