Page 75 of Dirty

For some reason, there was a line out the door and halfway around the building, which had never happened. I was appreciative of all the business, but for two of us to keep up with 15 tables each was twice as much as I was used to.

I scrambled to each of my tables, kept everyone feeling as important as I was able, and then took Silicon Valley his plate.

“Oh.” His eyes locked on the plate. “Wow. They are huge.”

I placed it in front of him. “There’s some extra lobster sauce on the side. Let me know if you need any more.”

He looked up. “I will.”

I glanced at his basket of bread. Although it was still over half-full, I asked nonetheless. “Are you okay on bread?”

“I am.”

I smiled. “Enjoy. And, feel free to throw the knife if you need anything.”

He smiled in return and reached for his napkin.

Being filled to capacity wasn’t terrible during lunch, because everyone seemed to come in at the same time. As a result, they finished their food at the same time, and left at roughly the same time.

After dropping off half of my customer’s bills, people began to filter out. Their tables were immediately bussed and filled with a new customer.

I scrambled to drop off menus, take drink orders, and then take food orders. After placing the orders for my newest customers, I glanced toward Silicon Valley.

He was wiping his mouth.

I printed his receipt and walked to his table.

“Well?”

“You were right,” he said. “It was marvelous.”

I glanced at his plate. The dish of lobster sauce I’d given him was empty, and his plate was spotless.

“I could drink that lobster sauce,” I said, although I knew never would. “Isn’t it good?”

He nodded toward his plate. “I used it all.”

“Ready for key lime pie?”

“I couldn’t take another bite if I were forced,” he said.

“Coffee?”

“No, thank you.”

“Is there anything I can get you?”

He shook his head. “I’m fine, thank you.”

“Thanks for not throwing the knife.” I placed his bill on the edge of the table. “Whenever you’re ready. Take your time.”

He checked his watch and then smiled. “Thank you.”

I smiled and turned away.

“There is one more thing,” he said.

I glanced over my shoulder. “Yes.”