Chapter 26

As they drove over the Fuller Warren Bridge, Ted said, “It’s time for lunch. Can we stop and have a Camel Rider?”

“You bet we can, kiddo, and Richard’s is right down there to the left of the bridge.”

“Thanks. I like Camel Riders.”

“Good. Ted, do you like it here in Jacksonville?”

“Yes, Sir.”

“You’re not just saying that to please me, are you?”

“No, Sir. It’s a lot nicer here than it was in Arkansas.”

When they walked into Richard’s Chris automatically scanned the room for familiar faces but on first glance didn’t see any. As he and Ted carried their trays toward a table, a blonde woman spoke to him.

“Aren’t you George and Mike’s new friend?” she said, “Chris I think the name was?”

“Yes, Ma’am, and you’re Deborah, right? Mickey and I had you over to dinner once, but I was meeting so many people during that time, I’m surprised that I remember any of them.”

“That would be me. Who’s this with you?”

“This is my brother, Ted. Ted, say hello to Miss Cantrell.”