Page 104 of DadBod

ELIZABETH

Settingmy tables up for the first dinner rush, I hear animated chatter coming from the front door. It’s Calvin’s voice I hear first. “That was the bomb, wasn’t it, Ryann?”

He must’ve enjoyed Hamilton. Rome took the kids to the matinee today after the guy he knew came through with tickets. Ryann’s behind her brother with a smile on her face too. “It was pretty good.”

“Pretty good?” Calvin appears shocked at his sister’s lack of enthusiasm. “It was awesome.” He races up to me and starts right in on how good the show was, how amazing the songs were, and how he now wants the soundtrack for his birthday. A birthday that is days away.

It’s been a countdown to his birthday for the past couple of weeks. It’s the first thing out of his mouth. “Only fifteen days ’til my birthday.” The next morning: “Only fourteen days ’til the big day.”

“I know,” I always say. I ask, “How old will you be again?”

Like he can’t believe how forgetful I am, he gapes, saying, “Eight. Geez.”

“Right. What do eight-year-olds like, I wonder? Maybe a doll?”

That usually gets a giggle out of him. “No, Elizabeth. I gave you a list, remember?”

“That’s right. Now, where did I put that thing?” I pretend to look around.

“On your phone. I sent you a text from Dad’s phone.”

“Okay. Sure. Now I remember. I’ll get you something real nice.”

“Good.”

God, I love this kid.

“We’re adding the soundtrack to your birthday list?”

“Yes!” he shouts loud enough for everyone in the restaurant to hear.

“Now where is that darned list?” I pat my apron pockets like I’ve lost it again.

“You know it’s on your phone.”

Touching his hair, I smile. “How could I ever forget my favorite guy’s birthday list?”

“I know, right?”

“Elizabeth?” That voice. It’s the one I’m used to but still don’t like. He’s emphasized my name like he’s angry with me. But how could he be? I haven’t seen him all day. Looking up, I realize I’ll need to re-think that theory. He looks angry. No. More than angry. He looks downright pissed.

“Hi.” I attempt to sound cheerful even though I’m a little scared.

“We need to talk.”

“I’m setting my––”

“Now.”

“Okay.”

Rome steps past me toward the kitchen. I guess I’m supposed to follow him. Setting down the silverware in my hand, I move in behind him. When he pushes open the door the kitchen, I see her. Monica. I wasn’t surprised to see she still worked here, but I am surprised to see that evil smirky expression on her face. It’s a look that means she knows something. Something I don’t know.

How––?

I glance up at Rome again. He’s stopped walking, and he’s turned to face me. His hands are on his hips, and the glare he’s giving me is scaring me. I’ve never seen him look quite this angry, with anyone.

“What’s wrong?” Jeriann appears on my left, her face looking as concerned as I feel.

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