Page 63 of Broken Rules
“I know what will cheer you up,” he began, “today is the final leg of the Hempel Cup Series.”
Brandi came behind the bar and folded Savannah in a warm hug. “We’ve been playing it in your honor, despite demands to put the Red Sox on.”
Savannah smiled. “I love you guys.”
“Group hug,” Roger said, pulling them close.
“Don’t leave me out of the love,” Wally blurted, appearing at the bar.
“Wait,” Roger said, thrusting out his hand, stopping Wally in his tracks. “What are you wearing?”
“Just my whites,” Wally said defensively.
“Those aren’t whites anymore.”
Savannah took in the colorful smears blotting Wally’s kitchen uniform. He lifted his shoulder. “Today is barbecue sauce day.”
“You can keep the sauce to yourself.” Roger said before blowing Wally a kiss. “But I still love you.”
Wally pounded his chest with his fist, then pointed to Roger. “Right back atcha, man.” Then he turned to Savannah. “Welcome back, doll face.”
“Thanks, Wally.”
“We’re open,” Heather called from the hostess desk. Then her eyes brightened when she saw Savannah. “Yay! Welcome back!”
“Thanks,” Savannah said. She took a deep breath.
An instant later, Esme appeared at the bar. Her feminine pink lips contrasted beautifully with her shaved head. “I heard you were here!”
“Hi darlin’,” Savannah said, smiling. “You’re hair has grown in a little,” she observed.
Esme’s face beamed. “My sister’s hair has, too.” Tears flooded her eyes. “She’s in remission, Savvy!”
A knot formed in Savannah’s throat. “Oh, Esme,” she said, her voice breaking. She pulled her friend into a fierce embrace. “That’s by far the best news I’ve heard in a long time.”
“Hey, Esme!”
Pulling apart, both Esme and Savannah turned to see Joe standing at the bar. He wore a soft expression on his face. “I’m really happy to hear about your sister. I really am.” The warmth fled his eyes. “But you’re killing me. Stop crying and making everyone else cry, and get back to work.”
“You have no soul,” Savannah shot at him.
Joe grinned. “You’re right. I have a business instead. Back to work...everyone!” He paused at the entrance to the dining room. “Welcome back.”
She smiled and took a deep breath. She was glad she had decided to return to work. Surrounded by friends who loved her, she could lose herself to the rush of The Cove and shut out her grief.
A short while later, the bar was slammed, and her brain was chock full of food and drink orders. The energy of the rush pulsed through the entire restaurant. That was all there was—customers, sweat, and tips.
But it didn’t last.
The lunch rush slowed down, and all the pain came flooding back.
Nonna, Damien, and her desperate, shattered heart.
Savannah looked around at the laughing faces, and her ears started to ring. She tried to lick her lips, but her mouth was dry.
“Everyone, quiet down!” she heard Roger yell. She turned to look at him. His gaze was on her.
“Savannah, the race is almost over.”
