Page 95 of Only You

Twenty-Five

Two days later, Kayla and Jack entered Alibi’s, the restaurant where Jack asked her to be his pretend girlfriend. They were holding hands, but there was nothing fake about it. Now she wanted to hold his hand and didn’t want to let go.

“There they are,” Kayla said, motioning to a table at the back of the restaurant. “This is your last chance to back out.”

Jack chuckled. “I’m not backing out. I want to meet your parents.”

“Said no man ever.”

“It’ll be fine,” he assured her.

Kayla clutched his hand even tighter as they approached the table. Sue and Tim stood to greet them, and Kayla reluctantly let go of Jack’s hand.

“Mom and Dad, this is Jack Peterson.”

“Tim. Nice to meet you.” Her dad shook Jack’s hand.

“I’m Sue.” Her mom shook his hand next.

“It’s great to meet you both. Sorry it took so long,” Jack said congenially.

Kayla and Jack slid into the booth across from her parents.

“We took the liberty of ordering some appetizers,” said Tim.

“Sounds good. I’m starved,” Jack said.

Kayla guessed that making love all morning had worked up his appetite, but she didn’t look at him, lest she give their secret away.

A server approached and took their drink orders.

After she left, Sue started in. “So, Jack. Tell us about yourself.”

“You could have waited until he got his drink,” Tim teased.

“It’s fine,” Jack said. “Where should I begin?”

“How about with your family? That is why we’re all here, after all,” Sue said pointedly.

Kayla raised her eyebrows at the not-so-subtle jab. Jack must have caught it too, but to his credit, he ignored it.

“As you know, my parents, Eileen and John, are here for the holidays. They retired to Florida but visit often since they still have friends and family here.”

“Do you have any siblings?” Sue asked.

“No. It’s just me.”

The server arrived with their appetizers and drinks. The foursome was quiet as she set everything down. “Would you like to place your lunch orders now, or wait?”

Tim spoke for the group. “Give us a few minutes, please.”

“Certainly,” the server said and walked off.

As they filled their plates with appetizers, Kayla could almost believe this was a normal lunch date, but she knew better. They’d only taken a few bites before Sue started in again.

“You and Kayla have worked together for quite some time,” Sue commented.

Jack nodded while Kayla sipped her soda. She and Jack had agreed they wouldn’t order alcoholic beverages today. It was Kayla’s suggestion, since she wanted to stay sharp during her mom’s interrogation.