Page 21 of His Secret Gift

A chorus of “aw, man” breaks out among the staff.

“You are free to do whatever you want on the shore once your duties are complete.”

With that, Denver’s big eyes widen even further. “Do you like to drink?”

“I do.”

Chapter 7

Mystery Woman – Jack

When I first heard about the delay, I wanted to retreat to my old ways and throw something. However, I’ve been in therapy since the breakup, and my therapist has helped me come up with better coping mechanisms.

So, instead of raging out, I take it as a sign that maybe something bad would’ve happened if we were able to leave today, and I go to dinner by myself at Steak 954, one of my favorite places to enjoy a filet mignon and a martini while peering at the sun, which looks like it’s setting into the water. The sound of the waves and the seagulls chirping are calming to me.

When I finish my meal, I grab the napkin out of my lap and put it across my plate.

“All done, sir?” the server asks.

Hmm.Normally, I’d skip dessert in favor of my figure. But since I’m already kind of splurging, I ask for the chocolate souffle.

“Absolutely. I’ll be right out with that.”

“Thank you.” I then place my hands on the back of my neck, and I relax back in my chair. I’m aware that other people have issues with eating alone, but I enjoy it. While at work or on the boat, I feel like people are always talking to me or trying to get my attention.

But when I’m alone, it’s quiet. Well, there are other tables around me, but they’re distracted with their own business, and I can be left with mine.

“Here you go,” the same woman with a black apron says while presenting the delectable treat to me.

I clap, lean forward again, and lick my lips. It’s in a white carafe, and by the high, brown fluff, I can tell that it’s been expertly cooked.

“Enjoy.”

Looking up at her, I assure, “Oh, I will.”

She smiles and then tends to another table.

Oh, god!I cut through it like butter. Then, as I let a piece of it linger in my mouth, I swear I’m having an out-of-body experience. It’s either because I don’t often allow myself such food, it’s just that good, or a combination of both.

“Excuse me.” I later stop the woman who served it to me.

“Yes?”

“Is there any way I could get another portion of that?” But before she can judge me, I explain, “It’s not for me. It’s for a friend.”

She grins sweetly. “Of course. I’ll get that to go for you.”

I can’t tell if she’s being sarcastic about it not being for me… but regardless, I’m happy to share the experience with Bryant. You also wouldn’t know it from his fit figure, but he’s also a chocolate lover. Perhaps even more than me.

After paying for my meal, I take his dessert, which is in a Styrofoam box, and I walk around the streets of Fort Lauderdale. I won’t be back for well over a month, and I’m going to miss it.

I’m not from here. In fact, I was born and raised in a suburb of Columbus, Ohio. But I love the consistent warm weather, and the waterfront views. Powell, Ohio is much less colorful and entertaining, I assure you.

It’s almost completely dark as I continue walking and there’s a crisp breeze coming off the ocean. I pause to fully enjoy the brisk feeling on my skin. Then, I walk down a narrow alleyway.

As soon as I turn the corner, the front of my body feels the pressure of someone or something else.

The chocolate souffle goes flying.

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