Page 120 of The Wayward Son

“I had a sandwich. I’m pretty hungry.”

“Do you have any food? I could make something.”

“How about we go to town and get something to eat?”

“Do you mean like a date?”

“I mean like two people who are hungry and have no food in the house.”

“Cathy’s?”

“Sure. I believe tonight is all you can eat hot wings and fries.”

She nodded. “That sounds pretty good.”

She got to her feet, and Sawyer sat up. “Do you need to change or anything?”

“Do you want me to change?”

“No. I’m just asking.”

“I’m fine.”

“Okay. Let’s go.”

They left the loft and drove to town, then parked on the street in front of Cathy’s Coffee Shop. It was right next to The Corner Bar, but it was early and the parking along the street was still available. In a few hours, it wouldn’t be.

They went inside and were greeted by Carla, the waitress. “Good evening Sawyer. You just missed your aunt and Brady.”

“Really? Did they eat backwards again?”

“Of course. They’re so cute together.” She picked up two menus and led them to a table. “How’s this?”

“Great.”

Carla looked closely at Jade. “I know you.”

“Jade Emmerson.”

“Oh my gosh. I heard you were back in town. Welcome. Are you back for good?”

“I don’t know yet. Just got a job next door, though.”

“At the bar?”

“Yeah.”

“Congratulations. If you ever get tired of drunk cowboys, you can always pick up a few shifts here. Not as exciting. And probably not nearly as much in tips. But if you need a change.”

“Thank you. I’ll keep it in mind.”

Carla was two years ahead of them in high school. But it was such a small school, everyone still knew everyone. Or at least who they were. Jade hadn’t interacted much with Carla. But she’d always been nice to her when they did.

Sawyer smiled at Jade across the table. “Seems everyone wants to hire you.”

“Go figure.” She looked around the quiet restaurant. “This is a little too low key for me.”

Carla returned with two waters and a coffee pot. “Coffee for you both?”

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