Page 130 of Hutch
“Come on, I’m starving.”
Hutch says his goodbyes and we go back out the door, Hutch locking it behind him.
“And when did I become your girl?” I ask. “I don’t remember agreeing to that.”
He smiles impishly. “You are my girl, but I can wait until you’re comfortable with that title before I use it. I’d rather everyone else use it, though. It gives you a layer of protection here on campus. People will watch out for you because they’re loyal to me.”
It’s hard to argue with that logic. He doesn’t give me time to anyway as he ushers me down the steps and into the car. Collin is in the backseat yawning for all he’s worth.
The ride into downtown is quiet with Collin making some weird noises every time his stomach growls. Even Hutch keeps glancing in the mirror at him.
“You good?” he asks as we pull into a parking lot.
Another yawn rips out of him. “Fuck, I’m tired.”
“Did you get drunk last night?” Hutch turns to face his friend, eyes narrowed, the beginnings of anger blooming in his expression.
“Fuck no I didn’t. I’m not that stupid. We start practice on Monday. I’m not slowing my body down for a buzz that lasts a few hours.”
“Then why are you tired?”
“I was up until four. You disappeared and I was the center of attention. It’s amazing how many lovely women want to congratulate you however they can.”
“That is so gross.” I frown and give him my best disgusted expression.
“It’s gross to have beautiful women falling all over you?”
“No, but the way you said that was gross.”
“She’s not wrong,” Hutch says. “It kinda made you sound a little sleezy. Best not to let a reporter hear you say shit like that.”
“I didn’t even think…” He sighs and gets out of the Jeep along with me and Hutch. “I need to learn to filter my mouth better when I’m tired.”
“That’s why you have me.” Hutch punches his shoulder in a big brother sort of way. “I’m not going to let you screw your career before it gets started.”
The two of them are actually cute together and they do give off brother vibes.
“Let’s eat.” Hutch wraps an arm around me and leads me inside one of the smallest places I’ve ever been since coming to Minneapolis. There are maybe five tables in here and one is reserved in the back. Hutch apparently called ahead and asked for a table to be reserved. When we sit down, between Hutch and Collin, their very presence seems to overwhelm the space and makes it look even smaller.
It’s a cute place. Lots of wooden accents among the gray stone makes it feel very Zen. The table is small, but the seats are roomy and very comfy. And it’s packed. People are standing everywhere waiting on their orders. A definite hole in the wall establishment and in my opinion, the absolute best kind.
“Good morning and welcome to the Egg Hop. I’m Amy and I’ll be your waitress this morning.” She hands us menus. “What can I get you to drink to start with?”
“Coffee,” Hutch and Collin both groan out. “Lots and lots of coffee. Just bring us the pot.”
She only nods at Collin’s request. “Miss? What can I get for you?”
“Orange juice will be fine. And a Dr. Pepper if you have it. I’m not big on coffee, but I need my caffeine fix as well.”
Amy smiles. “I’m the same way. I’ll be back in just a few. Let me know if you have any questions.”
“Do you guys have a paper around here?” Hutch asks, seeing several tables flipping through newspapers. I mean, who reads an actual newspaper anymore? It’s odd. I get all my news online.
“I’ll check to see if we have extras on hand.” Amy smiles again and heads toward the door I assume leads to the kitchen.
“This is a small menu,” Collin complains as he looks over the one page menu.
“Flip it over,” Hutch says around a yawn. “There’s more.”
