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She parks, and I go in and talk to the hostess about a table outside. It’s chilly, but because of the dog, they accommodate us. Once we’re seated with menus, I scan it and realize how hungry I am. The waiter takes our orders, and I settle in my chair and notice Elaina staring off.
“I was supposed to be leaving for the airport about now. Our flight was at ten.” She says the words softly, letting it sink in.
She seems to need to talk about it, so I give her the opportunity. “Where were you going?”
“Maui. I’ve always wanted to go there.”
“Me, too.”
“Maybe he’s taking Madison instead.”
Hearing her say the words I’m already thinking, I study her carefully. She busies herself by toying with the silverware and won’t meet my eyes, but I think she knows I’m watching her.
“Hey.” I cover her hand with mine, stilling her motions. “You escaped in the nick of time. I thank God you did. You’re mourning the marriage to a man you thought he was, but he was never that man.”
She nods, and her eyes glaze. I imagine she’s too choked up for words. I give her time. Hopefully, she’ll eventually see I’m right. She needs to get past this to the other side and realize she escaped something horrible; she didn’t lose what was never there in the first place. But I’ve said enough. My words just need time to sink in. I don’t want to push her. She needs to come around on her own. I’m hoping the time and space I’m giving her in Durango will do just that.
The waitress brings a bowl and a bottle of water for Rosie. “Here you go.”
“Thanks.” I take the bowl and fill it, setting it down.
Elaina puts a hand to her cheek. “I didn’t even think to do that.”
“It’s okay. You’re distracted.”
Her eyes glaze. “That’s no excuse.” She ruffles her dog’s ears. “I’m sorry, girl.”
I sip my steaming coffee and watch Rosie finish the bowl, then lay at Elaina’s feet. Our food comes and I slip her a piece of bacon.
“That’s not good for her, you know.”
“Hey, I’m making friends, here.”
She rolls her eyes. “Fine. Just this once.”
I’ve eaten half my plate when my phone goes off.
Trez.
“I’ve got to take this. If the waitress comes back, order me another coffee.”
“Sure thing.” She seems relieved for the moment alone.
I stand and move toward the sidewalk. When I’m far enough away that I’m confident Elaina can’t overhear the call, I put the phone to my ear. “Hey, man. What’s up?”
“How’d the wedding go? You bring a bridesmaid to your room?” He chuckles.
“More like the bride.”
“I’m sorry. What?” He pauses a moment. “Did you just say bride?”
“Yeah.”
“No shit. How’d that happen?”
“My brother happened. He was his usual dick self. He shoved her face in the wedding cake. This sweet beautiful girl he got lucky enough to marry ran out of the reception in tears.”
“What an ass.”
