Page 26 of Fair Play
Rome cocks his head. “Do you drink?”
“Yes, but not when I’m driving. It’s Bodi’s thing, but honestly, it’s probably the safest idea.”
He nods. “My limit is one when I’m driving.”
“Good to know.”
We smile at each other over our menus.
“The food list is extensive,” he says after a moment. “It has all the staples—burgers, fries, and milkshakes—but there’s also a decent wine list and options for a more refined palate.”
“Yes.” I scan the menu thoughtfully.
This will take a while to learn, but it’s exciting because despite the fun, casual fifties theme, the menu portrays a seriousness that will bring people in for more than the atmosphere.
“Are you ready to order?” Wade asks, dropping off Rome’s beer.
“I’ll have the chicken parm,” I say. “And a side salad with blue cheese.”
“Got it. And for you?” He turns to Rome.
“I’d like the meatloaf. No green beans. Can I substitute a salad for that?”
“Sure thing.”
“With oil and vinegar.”
“Coming right up.” Wade skates away and I watch ruefully.
I really don’t know if I can do this.
I haven’t been on skates of any kind since the accident and now that I see the level of proficiency needed, I’m not sure I’m up to the task. My leg is healed but there’s occasional stiffness, so it worries me a little. Even though the doctor said I could do anything I want now.
“What’s wrong?” Rome seems to be studying me as carefully as I’m taking in our surroundings.
Am I ready to open up about the one lingering piece of trauma from the accident? I’m past most of the emotional stuff, beyond an occasional nightmare, but the physical part is harder. From the outside looking in, I’m fine. I don’t limp, the scars have faded so you really have to look to see them, and I’m not scared I’m going to wreck every time I get behind the wheel.
Skating is something else entirely.
“You okay, babe?” His voice is soft, less gruff than usual, and filled with concern.
“This is probably a dumb question, but do you know how to roller skate?” I ask absently, still staring out at the busy restaurant floor.
“Uh… sure.” He seems caught off-guard. “It’s been years but I used to play in a floor hockey league in the summers. Why?”
“I haven’t been on skates, roller or ice, since the accident.”
He hesitates, but a waitress skates by holding a huge tray, and I can see the wheels turning the moment it clicks
“Bodi told me you used to be a figure skater.”
I nod, looking away because the last thing I want to see is pity.
“Rome!” A loud voice makes us both jump and my chest tightens as a beautiful woman of about thirty approaches our table holding out her arms to Rome.
“Hey, Nita.” He gets up and hugs her and the urge to strangle her quickly fades.
“Hi! You must be Billie.” She hugs me too. “Athena told me so much about you—and it’s good to see you too, stranger!” She gives Rome a playful shove.
