Page 104 of Gideon's Gratitude

“They have some lean meat cuts.” I scanned the menu as well. Had I known we would be making our way here, I would’ve definitely checked out the menu online first. Most places posted their nutritionspecs there as well. I still didn’t enjoy spending time on the computer, but for Archer’s health, I’d totally make an exception.

“Yes, I did my research. The chicken kebobs are very healthy. As is the falafel.”

“Oh, good.”

“I love calamari, but they fry it here, and that’s not—”

“No, it’s not.” I gazed at him.

“But if you had it and gave me one piece…”

I narrowed my eyes.

“One piece.”

“You expect me to order squid so you can getone piece?”

“Well…”

I grinned. “Yeah, I can do that. One isn’t going to cause a crisis, but this isn’t going to become a routine.” I wagged my finger at him.

“How are you doing tonight? My name is Timothea, and I’m your server for this evening.” A lovely woman with bright-blue eyes and long, black hair tied in a ponytail offered us a wide smile.

“We are fantastic.” Archer snagged my hand. “This place is charming.”

She grinned. “My uncle does a good job. We’ve been here thirty years—which is about five years longer than I’ve been around.”

“I’m not certain if I’m to comment about the length of the restaurant being here, since thirty years is impressive, or if I compliment you on…” Archer appeared to consider. “I think twenty-five is a good age. So, congratulations.”

“Well, my birthday was yesterday, so I’ll take those well wishes.”

“Happy belated birthday.” I said the words quietly as I marveled at how right Archer’s hand over mine felt.

She grinned. “Thanks. But that’s not why you’re here.”

“Admittedly not.” Archer offered her a devastating grin.

The one he gave me once in a while and that, I could say honestly, made me weak in the knees. “I’ll have a club soda and the chicken kebob platter.”

“Great.” She pivoted her attention to me.

“A large order of fried calamari and a cola.”

“Perfect. I’ll bring you some pita bread to get you started, and I’ll get this order in. We’re not too busy, so you won’t have to wait long.”

We’d come in late afternoon to avoid a potential rush. My boyfriend understood I was still a little skittish around people I didn’t know. I’d always been shy and wary of strangers while Leo saw every person as an opportunity to connect. He would’ve made a phenomenal salesperson.

Timothea left.

Archer still clung to my hand.

“What are your plans for Christmas?” He glanced out the plate-glass window to First Avenue where several city workers were hanging decorations.

“You’ll need to drive down this strip later on when everything’s lit up. It’s so beautiful.” One of the few pleasures I’d had last year—being without the kids and all. I’d taken a ride down this street to take in the decorative lights.

“We’ll drive together. Do you think they’ll be finished by the time we’re ready to go?”

“I’m not sure.”

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