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“STK is very cool, but we will actually be able to talk in this place. You will love the food, one of the best filets around,” I try to pacify her in order to avoid another meltdown like the night before.
“Whatever, you always pick the lamest places,” she scoffs and glares out the window. I can see her reflection and she pouts just like a spoiled little girl. “Besides, I had filet last night,” she adds with a huff.
“Do you know where we are going?” I ask Mandy.
“I sure hope it’s not the place I’m thinking of.” Her expression sours. “The Homestead or whatever it’s called.”
Hmm, maybe this wasn’t such a good idea. Both girls are glaring at me as the limo pulls up to the Old Homestead Steakhouse. The incredible smell that greets us when the driver opens the door takes me back to my childhood. Liv is going to hate this place. Where is Mandy?
“I’m not stepping foot in there,” she announces firmly as I crouch down and peer back in at her. “Are you trying to totally piss me off or something? If so, you’re messing with the wrong woman.”
“I’m not messing with you. I brought you here for a reason. Just trust me.” I hear Liv talking to someone behind me. “Come on, you’ll see.” I reach out taking her hand and leading her out of the car.
While they were getting ready, I called ahead and talked to the manager. I remembered that as a kid we always sat at a big round table toward the back of the dining room. I’m sure that’s where they were on the night that my father betrayed them. I told her that I wanted to sit at the same exact table and as I suspected, it is still there. I kind of wish Liv wasn’t along, but hopefully she will let me do what needs to be done.
“Mr. Addison, you and your brother were just little boys the last time I saw you,” an older gentleman says greeting me with open arms. “I was sorry to hear about the passing of your grandfather and your father too of course, what a tragedy. They were both good men.”
“Thank you, ” I reply, struggling to remember him from my younger years. “Do you know who this is?” I ask, pulling Mandy to my side.
“You don’t look familiar, but you certainly are a beautiful young woman.” He raises her hand to his lips and gives it a kiss.
“This is Rayfield Grayson’s granddaughter, Amanda,” I inform him.
Judging by the look on his face, he was as stunned as if I had slapped him. “Oh good Lord. I never thought I would live to see the day. I haven’t seen either of your families in years and now both of you? You even requested the old round table. Are you two getting engaged or something?”
“They just met!” Liv squeals. “I’m his girlfriend and she is a friend of mine. That’s how they met!” she explains.
“Oh no. These two have known each other for many years. I’m sure you were both here for your grandparents fortieth wedding anniversary,” he tells Mandy. “Of course you were all just little kids back then.“
“Really? That was here?” She asks seeming a bit surprised.
“I insisted that they let me host it for them.” He laughs. “I’m sure it wasn’t your grandmother’s first choice, but she was a good sport.”
A woman comes through the door to greet us. “Your table is ready Mr. Addison. Dad will talk all night if you let him.” She giggles and escorts us back to our table.
As we sit down, I can see that Mandy is getting all choked up. I’m sure all the memories of being here with her grandparents and everything else that happened back then is making her emotional. I reach over and take her hand.
“A long time ago, my father did something that has caused your family an unimaginable amount of pain.” I look straight into her eyes, completely oblivious to everyone else around us. “I know why you and Liv met and why you came on this trip. I can’t say that I blame you one bit; I would’ve had similar motivations if it had happened the other way around. However, I brought you here tonight to tell you that I’m going to do whatever it takes to make things right for you and your family.”
“I have hated your family for so many years,” she whimpers with tears beginning to stream down her cheeks. “Your dad ruined everything!”
“I know and that’s why I want to make it up to you,” I assure her. “Are either of your grandparents still alive?”
“No,” she squeaks out. “They died within six months of each other during my senior year of high school. We all regret not visiting them more the past few years.”
