Aftermath of Disaster: Books 1, 2, and 3 Bundle + Bonus Book: When Jack Met Diane

by Kevin Barry Maguire

  ∆ ∆ ∆

  Friday morning, Jack asked Diane where she wanted to go for lunch.

  Excuse me?"

  Jack explained that the whole office shut down at lunch and they all met at a restaurant out of the city.

  "Oh," she said. Her face turned a little red and she looked at her desk.

  "I don't know, wherever you all decide is fine."

  "I've heard that before." Jack smiled and he caught a hint of smile in her eyes.

  He got to his office and sent the poll via email. Sizzlers in Lakewood won the day.

  ∆ ∆ ∆

  Jack arrived before just about everyone else. He picked a table big enough for everyone and took a seat in the middle. He left two seats open next to him, hoping Diane would sit in one of them.

  Instead, two people took up the seats, Jack was disappointed but didn't say anything.

  Diane arrived just as the second seat was taken. She walked up nonchalantly and told the man, "Excuse me, I think you've got my chair."

  Ralph apologized and switched seats.

  Bold, Jack thought. He was elated, however. Maybe, just maybe this girl likes me.

  Jack said he was going to get his salad and got up. Diane said, "I'll join you."

  At Sizzler, customers order at the register before they sit down. They were waiting on their food as they were getting salad from the enormous salad bar.

  They ate and chatted for about 30 minutes before Mr. Mason turned off the chat switch and started up business.

  "I’m sure you all have got to know Diane. She's fitting in quite well, I think. Thanks for your hard work, Diane."

  "With that, you may go over the minutes now."

  They discussed the current projects and where they are with them. The meeting part went on for about thirty minutes before Mr. Mason cut it off and wished everyone a good weekend.

  Most people got up and headed home. Ralph, Jack, and Diane stayed a little longer to chat. When Diane wasn’t looking, Jack looked at Ralph and nodded his head towards the door. Ralph picked up on the hint and said it was time for him to get going.

  The two talked about growing up and that’s when Jack hit her with the Steilacoom connection. They discussed their favorite teachers, sports, and growing up in small towns. Then Jack popped the question they were both waiting for.

  “Diane, I’d love to continue this conversation tomorrow night at, say…CI Shenanigans. Would you like to join me for some good food and conversation?”

  “Tomorrow is short notice,” she said. “But I think I can make it.”

  Jack’s heart sank at “short notice” then jumped as she finished her sentence.

  “Great. I’ll pick you up at 5 pm?”

  Diane smiled and said, “How long has it been since you’ve been on a date? I’ll meet you there. Is 5:30 good?”

  Jack felt a flush creep across his cheeks. It had been a long time since his last girlfriend. She didn’t understand him and his prepping ways. She hated guns and thought he should be spending money on her, not his “hobbies.” He ended it with her and kept to himself after that. But there was something about Diane that made him want to date again.

  “You caught me,” he said. “It has been a while. I can be there at 5:30.”

  First Date

  Jack finished shaving and got dressed. He chose nice jeans and a polo shirt, then topped it off with a windbreaker. He decided a button up was too much for a casual first date. With jeans, he could wear a nice pair of hiking boots.

  He arrived at the restaurant at 5:15 and waited in his truck. Better early than late, he thought.

  He pulled out his phone and checked messages, then played a word game to keep himself from looking at the clock every thirty seconds. At 5:25 he started looking for her car every minute or so. At 5:30 he started getting nervous, wondering if she changed her mind. Jack resisted the urge to call or text her, not wanting to appear anxious or needy.

  When the clock hit 5:40, he felt defeated but still refused to call her. He got out of his truck and walked around the parking lot for a bit. He needed to get rid of the nervous energy and stretch out.

  ∆ ∆ ∆

  Diane took a shower and started looking for something to wear. She knew Shenanigans could be casual or almost fine dining. She couldn’t decide between pants and a nice blouse, a full dress, or a skirt and blouse.

  She finally decided on a nice blue dress that stopped just above her knees. She’s been told more than once that blue was her color. She dried and styled her hair, then noticed the time. Crap, she thought, I’m not going to be fashionably late, I’m going to be late late!

  Diane rushed her preparations, grabbed her purse, and ran out the door. She got in her car hoping the traffic would be kind.

  She made it to the restaurant at about 5:45 and hoped Jack hadn’t given up on her. She wanted to call him, but the phone was in her purse. She was nervous and didn’t want to be distracted while searching around for her phone.

  While searching for the ever-elusive parking spot, she saw Jack walking back to his truck. Oh no, she thought. He’s leaving! She didn’t blame him, but she also wasn’t going to let him get away. She honked her horn a few times to get his attention. He saw her and waved her over.

  “I found a spot for you,” he said. “Hurry, right over there.”

  Aww that’s sweet, she thought. He wasn’t leaving after all.

  He was leaving. But his quick thinking covered it up with a lucky open parking spot.

  They went inside and Jack asked for a table by the window. It would take longer but the view was worth it. Ten minutes later they were at their table.

  “Where are my manners,” Jack said. “You look wonderful. That dress goes perfect with your hair.”

  Wonderful? Pretty or gorgeous would have been nice, Diane thought. Oh Jack, you need to step up your game. It’s a good thing you’re cute.

  She smiled and said, “Thank-you. You look…well-groomed.”

  They talked about life and what they wanted in the future. Diane went on and on about wanting to move to the city. Jack said he likes to keep things simple and city life was too busy.

  As they were walking out, Jack’s hand found Diane’s and held it. He felt a tingle in his belly when she didn’t pull away. He suggested a small walk along the beach to work off some of the meal. His real goal was to spend a little more time with her.

  They sat on a bench and Jack put his arm around her shoulders, snuggling close as the evening air chilled. The conversation turned back to childhood stories about school, friends, and family. Jack mentioned his Boy Scout days and Diane talked about being stuck in a tiny town with nothing to do. She was happy with the growth of Dupont but wished it came much sooner.

  They walked back and stopped in front of Diane’s car. Diane leaned against the door and Jack stood in front of her and took both her hands.

  “Next Saturday I’d like to take you on a surprise outing,” he said. “Are you game?”

  “Oh, that sounds intriguing, how can I refuse?”

  “I hope you can’t.”

  “Don’t worry, I’ll be there.” She winked and started to turn. Jack was too fast and planted a kiss on her cheek.

  “That was nice,” she said.

  “I was aiming for your lips.”

  “Maybe next time. Try harder.” She laughed and got inside.

  Jack smiled and watched her drive away.

  ∆ ∆ ∆

  Jack walked into work Monday morning and Diane was already there. She was the first to arrive each day so far. She stood to greet him and Jack stroked her wrist as they shook hands. Mr. Mason was in the hall and saw their greeting.

  Once again, Mr. Mason pulled Jack aside and asked what was going on.

  “We’re just friends. No worries.”

  “Well, keep it that way. And tone down the petting at work, please. I’d hate to have to find a new secretary. I like her.”

  “Yes sir.”

  Jack liked
and respected his boss and had never seen him act this way. He’s never been a stickler for the rules. He picked a fine time to go by the book.

  At lunch, Jack passed Diane’s desk and announced he was walking to Fireman’s Park for lunch.

  She said, “Have fun!”

  She waited a few minutes the told Mr. Mason she was leaving for lunch. Then she walked straight to Fireman’s Park.

  Jack told her about his conversation with Mr. Mason. “You friend-zoned me? Well that’s a first.”

  Jack laughed. “I’m sure it is, but only at work. I told him what he wanted to hear. We need to keep it professional while in the office. I don’t think he has a problem outside of work.”

  They talked a little while longer then Jack said he needed to get back and told her to wait a few minutes before she went back.

  The Range

  Jack pulled into the Park & Ride at Lakewood station at about noon on Saturday. He agreed to meet Diane there at 12:15. As usual, he was early. This time he did text Diane, letting her know he was on the first floor and there were plenty of parking spaces.

  Diane arrived late again. Jack wondered how she was always early for work. He made a mental note to make times 15 minutes earlier than he needed with her.

  She got in and they drove for Highway 512. Jack was curious and asked, “So when do the rules say I can pick you up at your place?”

  “When I decide you’re not a crazy stalker man,” she said with a wink.

  “Fair enough.”

  Jack got off the highway at Canyon Road and after about 5 minutes Diane said, “Where are we going? There isn’t much to see here. Maybe you are a crazy stalker man?”

  Jack laughed and said, “There will be a lot of people where we’re going, no worries.”

  “Just give me a hint.”

  “Hmm. Ok. It’s loud.”

  “That’s not much of a hint, Jack.”

  “No, but anything else might give it away. It’s fun to watch you try and figure it out.”

  Soon enough they turned onto a little side road and Diane saw the sign, “Tacoma Sportsman’s Club.”

  “Sportsman’s club? Aren’t we a little underdressed for a club?”

  “It’s not that kind of club.” Jack smiled and continued, “Sportsman, like hunters. It’s got a rifle range, a few archery ranges, trap, skeet, handgun. Everything an outdoorsman needs.”

  Jack looked at her to gauge her reaction. After the way his last relationship turned out, he wanted to make sure she was okay with guns and prepping right from the start. Guns first.

  Diane didn’t give much away but said, “Oh wow, are we shooting guns? I’ve never shot a gun before. This could be fun!”

  Jack’s fears were calmed and he replied, “Yes, I brought a starter for you and I’ll be using my 9mm.”

  “Oh, fun!”

  Jack was pretty sure she wasn’t being facetious.

  He found a parking spot and pulled a small black case out from behind his seat. They found an open spot and he set the case down and opened it to reveal a Smith & Wesson .22 revolver for Diane.

  “That’s a pretty gun,” she said.

  “First lesson, it’s a handgun. Second lesson, never point a weapon at anything you don’t intend to shoot. Third lesson, you only put your finger on the trigger when you’re ready to fire.”

  “That’s easy enough to remember.”

  “Good,” he said. “Pick it up.”

  Diane grabbed the handle and said, “I thought it would be heavier. I like this.”

  “I’m glad. Now, is it loaded?

  “I don’t know, you packed it.” She started to point the barrel at her face and Jack stopped her.

  “Diane, no no no! Lesson two, never point a weapon at anything you don’t intend to shoot. Lesson four, always assume a handgun, rifle, or shotgun is loaded.”

  He showed her how to open the revolver and see the empty cylinder. Then he loaded it up and continued her lessons. They took turns firing for about an hour and called it a day.

  He took her to Red Robin in Lakewood for lunch before taking her back to her car. He stepped out with her and they talked next to her car again. Once again, Jack took both her hands. But this time, he planted a kiss on her before she could turn and get in.

  “That was nice,” she said.

  He kissed her again.

  She said, “Okay, thanks for the lessons and lunch. I’ll see you Monday morning, all professional like.” She winked and got in her car.

  Aware

  The following weekend Jack planned a trip to Pt. Defiance Park. It’s a very large park in Tacoma, the second largest city park in the country. They could spend the whole day there and not get bored.

  He waited for Diane at the Park & Ride again. When she arrived, he told her he needed to stop for gas before going to the park. They made their way toward the 512 interchange and stopped there for gas.

  As Jack was pumping gas, he noticed a young teenager pacing in front. He was acting nervous and sweating too much for a spring day. He made a note of the boy’s description, just in case.

  He told Diane he was going inside to grab some water and ice. She joined him. He eyed the teenager as they walked by him. While they were inside, the boy walked in and pulled out a knife. He told the cashier to hand over the money.

  Jack motioned for Diane to stay put. He unholstered his Colt 9mm, stepped behind the boy, and pulled back the slide.

  “Not today, kid.”

  The boy’s eyes widened and he froze.

  Jack said, “Listen very carefully and do exactly as I say, or your mother is going to be on TV telling everyone what a nice boy you were and how you were just turning your life around. Understand?”

  The boy managed to nod his head a few times.

  “Good. Drop the knife and kick it away.”

  The knife fell with a clang and was kicked toward the door.

  “Now, I want you to lie face down on the floor and put your hands behind your back, then cross your legs. Move slow.”

  Diane had already called 911 and was on the phone with them until the police walked in. Jack kept his weapon trained on the boy, not knowing if he was still armed and not wanting to touch him. When the police arrived, he set his firearm on the counter.

  After dealing with the police and giving statements, Jack thought something closer to home might be better than Pt. Defiance. His adrenaline was still pumping, putting him a little on edge. He mentioned the change of plans to Diane and she agreed.

  “Where are you thinking?”

  Jack said, “Sunnyside beach in Steilacoom is close and it’s a nice beach. Do you know where it is?”

  “Of course!”

  “Good, I’ll take you back to your car and you can follow me there.”

  “I’ll follow you anywhere, tough guy.” She winked but meant it. Jack made her feel safe and that was a huge bonus.

  “You know,” she said. “I’ve heard the third date brings fireworks.”

  “Fireworks eh? Noted.”

  They stayed at the beach for a few hours then Jack suggested the Topside in Steilacoom for lunch. It was close and had good food. What he really needed was some Scotch. But that would have to wait until he was home.

  They ate a nice meal and Jack invited her to his house to meet the dogs. “Oh, I’d love to meet them!”

  He only lived a few blocks away so it was a short trip. As jack opened the door, two noses appeared in the opening.

  “Back girls, back!”

  Basha and Mercedes stepped back and let the pair inside. Then Jack was fighting off paws and tongues and giving hugs.

  After they settled down, he said “Meet Diane!” They looked at her and sniffed her hand and let her pet them.

  “They sure are happy to see you!”

  Jack laughed and said, “I have that effect on women.”

  He let the dogs outside in the backyard and showed Diane around. Then they joined the dogs outside and he showed her his gar
den. He’s been getting it ready for planting.

  “Oh, you’re a gardener too? I didn’t see that coming.”

  “I grow the food and store most of it for emergencies. I like to be prepared for anything.”

  They went inside and Jack said, “I’m still a little riled up from the gas station. I’m going to pour me a Scotch, would you like one? Or beer, vodka, water?”

  “Scotch sounds good. Ladies prefer Scotch.”

  Jack smiled and nodded.

  They snuggled on the couch and sipped a few shots of Scotch. Then Jack kissed her, running his fingers through her hair and down her side.

  She pulled back and said, “About those fireworks…”

  Jack took the hint and stood up. He offered his hand and pulled her up to him. Then he led her to the bedroom.