I think Timothy just ignored my words as he threw his arm over my shoulder and walked me inside. The waitress seated us without any wait. Obviously, we were too early for the dinner rush. But by stopping early, we’d not only avoid the heavy traffic heading back to San Jose, but it would allow us to dine in leisure, not being pressured by people waiting for a table.
The meal was elegantly prepared. We both got squash ravioli, and it came with green beans, carrots, and Brussel sprouts, which was an odd combination, but seasoned to perfection. Everything was delicious. Apparently walking in the zoo all day really spurred one’s appetite. Afterwards, Timothy even talked me into dessert. Blueberry cheesecake, and it was beyond words.
When the waitress came back to ask if we’d like more coffee, I asked for the check. Her eyes widened, and she said, “But it’s already paid for by that man over there.”
Andrew. I hadn’t even seen him come into the restaurant. I thanked the waitress and then glared at Timothy. “Darn you. I said I was going to pay for dinner.”
Timothy just shook his head, shrugged his shoulders, and circled his arm around my shoulders. “I adore you,” he said as we walked outside and climbed back into the limo.
Timothy:
After dropping off a very tired-looking Penelope, I ran down the stairs and hurled myself into the front seat of the limo. Andrew glanced at me, smiling.
“Well, what did you think, Andrew?” I asked.
“Is this honesty time?” he said, risking a sideways glance at me.
I nodded, disturbed that he’d even needed to ask me that. I was always up front with him and hoped he’d do the same.
“She’s running scared, and you haven’t even told her the zinger, yet. If this is the ONE, you’re going to have to let her pay for something and loosen up on your need to take care of her. I mean, I understand the two bodyguards you placed on her. Good luck with that, though. If she spots them, you’re in big trouble.”
“They’re professionals. As to the money thing, she is gasping for breath. Her roommate left her in the lurch for rent, and I think she’s paying most of her salary just to live there.”
“So get her a raise.”
I shot a look at Andrew. He was starting up the car again, ready to drive me home. I didn’t punch him in the arm for his clever idea, but instead just exclaimed. “You’re brilliant, Andrew, which is exactly why I pay you your big buck salary.”
He chortled, turned into traffic, and remained silent the rest of the way home.