Page 91 of You Chive Me Crazy
“This is insane!” Zoe said, looking a little overwhelmed as she tried to keep up with the demand, but her eyes shone with gratitude when she saw me. It was a big day for her, with investors coming to talk about a franchise deal that would take her baked potato trucks all over the country. I felt a deep sense of satisfaction that I had helped her achieve her dreams.
I smiled and gave her a thumbs-up, not wanting to distract her any longer. “Don't worry. You've got this!”
Zoe mouthed a “thank you” and got back to work.
She also sent Brianna over to drop off a baked potato for me.
As Rolando and Savannah set out hand-in-hand to explore, I made my way to a table Zoe had reserved for me, so I could enjoy the baked potato and chat with any of my social media followers who stopped by over the next two hours.
I had the pleasure of conversing with more than a few delightful individuals—some of them loyal fans, while others were a bit more intense.
After taking countless selfies, signing autographs, and exchanging flirty glances with Zoe, I finally hooked up with Rolando and Savannah again, who were both eager to go on a culinary quest.
Me? Not so much.
But it was my job, and I needed to submit three reviews before midnight. Luckily, Zoe’s would count as one after I transcribed it and added more details.
“We tried that wonton soup that Betsy was raving about,” Rolando said. “No wonder they voted it best in the US. It was incredible.”
“Sogood,” Savannah said. “What’s next on the agenda?”
“I guess I should do what I’m paid to do,” I said, shrugging, not really feeling the enthusiasm to do it. “My reviews are due today.”
“Last Minute Lucas.” Rolando laughed and pushed the side of my arm. “Like you’re even worried. You can write those reviews in your sleep.”
“Not quite . . .” I laughed with him.
“How many food trucks do you need to try?”
I sighed. “The Dickster just said I needed three positive reviews. If we choose wisely and find two five-star trucks, that’s all I need since I already have Zoe’s. The problem is I’m already stuffed from Zoe’s potato. No pun intended.”
“Sample the food like you’d sample wine at a tasting, just a bit on your palate to get the flavor, then you’re done!” Rolando said.
“Sure,” I said, chuckling. “I’ll just swirl a chicken kebab around in my mouth like a fine Merlot, then spit it out.”
Rolando winced. “As long as I’m not the one emptying your spit bucket.”
Savannah sniggered. “Just pace yourself, Lucas. You can handle it.”
“Okay—how about we go check out one food truck now, then we take a break and go for a walk before we do the next?” Rolando asked.
“That’s a great idea,” I said.
“Kay mentioned her grandson has a gourmet hot dog truck around here somewhere, and that they have the most amazing chili dogs,” Savannah said. “We could start there, then figure out the next one while we’re eating. And I just happen to love chili dogs.” She smiled and bumped Rolando’s hip.
“What a coincidence—me too,” Rolando said, grinning. “Who’s Kay?”
“You got her room after she checked out of the Serendipity Inn,” I said. “Remember that steakhouse we went to called Bursbury, that was right next door to Burberry on Rodeo Drive?”
“How can I forget?” he said, nodding. “Terrible location. Terrible food. What did you call that burger you ate?”
“A beastly beef abomination,” I said.
“That’s it,” Rolando said. “That was one of your best reviews.”
“Thanks,” I said. “As for Kay, she is the guy’s grandmother—his name is Rowan. He started selling hot dogs and sausages after the restaurant shut down, and I hear they are pretty darn good. And he’s happy, which is what matters most.”
“Let’s give them a shot then, but do the poor guy a favor and skip the review if you don’t like them,” Rolando said. “We can always find something else.”
