Chapter 3

Melinda, the diner’s hostess and cashier, flashed Marshall a huge smile when he came in. “Hey Marshall. Let me try and find you a spot. Hold on.”

“In Ruthie’s section, please.”

Melinda disappeared into the crowd, but it was his favorite waitress Ruthie who emerged for it. Her handsome face spread in a warm smile. “Hey baby. It’s gonna be a long wait for one of my tables, but let me fix you right up. Follow me.”

She led Marshall away from the side of the diner he usually sat on, the side where most of the regulars were typically seated, to the “tourist” side. He was settled into the very last booth on the right, opposite the back door.

“Now, just sit tight and be a good boy. If you play your cards right, there’s a free slice of pie in it for you.”

“Ruthie, I’m twenty years old. I’ll be a good man.”

Ruthie cackled. “Okay. Be a good man. It’s your waiter’s first day and he’s a bit in over his head. Cut him some slack, will you?”

“You know I will, Ruthie.”