Romance: Luther's Property

by Laurie Burrows

  “What can I get you?” I smiled and then wiped my hands on my apron which was tied neatly around my new black skirt.

  “Well, my buddy here wants a burger and I want another beer.” He grinned and then took a sip of his drink. “And I want to get a round of shits, too.” He looked around and all of his buddies, somewhat inebriated already, nodded with approval.

  “Okay.” I smiled and wrote down their orders. “Coming right up.” I walked away and then stopped when I saw an arm waving wildly in the air at me.

  “You-who!” A man with dark hair and a wool hat called out and leaned across the bar. “Can you fill her up?” He held his empty mug in the air and I nodded my head, then took the empty and set it under the tap. As soon as I pulled the lever to fill his beer, a group of five college-aged students sat down right at the front of the bar and asked for menus.

  For a second, I felt like I might have a bona-fide anxiety attack. My heart raced and my hands started to shake. I had too many requests all at once, and there was nobody around to help me. The only other waitress was on the opposite end of the restaurant, and the bartender who was on next shift wouldn’t be in for at least two more hours. It was up to me to get these people what they wanted.

  I poured the draft and then walked to the other end of the bar to take the students’ orders. I hadn’t seen Tim all afternoon, and I guessed that he was probably in the kitchen preparing food. My feet already hurt and the smell of the dank beer and the greasy food turned my stomach. I didn’t want to get too depressed about my first day, but it would be a lie if I told anyone that I enjoyed it.

  I called Rebecca as soon as I got home and cried. “It was awful.” I wiped my tears and then sniffed into a tissue. “I don’t know, Rebecca. It wasn’t like the people were really mean or anything, but I felt like I could barely keep up.” I blew my nose and then sighed. “I guess I should have looked for administrative work, instead.” I shook my head and then gazed out the window. Lizzie was all the way out in the corral, and I frowned when I thought about the possibility of selling her.

  “It was your first day, Alyssa. I would have expected it to be kind of tough.” Rebecca didn’t seem alarmed by my call.

  “Sorry to just call and dump on you. I’m just worried because I’m not in a position to quit, even if I hate it.” I looked around the kitchen at all the pictures of Joe and I that had been taken over the years- one from our Colorado wedding, one from our trip to Yellowstone, another from a family gathering out in Vancouver. A part of me wanted to take all the pictures and just shove them into the drawer somewhere, but another part of me didn’t think I’d ever have the heart to really say goodbye.

  “I think a nice hot bath would be good for you.” Rebecca comforted me and then paused when Cherry fought in the background for her attention.

  “That’s a great idea. Thanks, Rebecca. I’ll let you know how the rest of the weekend goes.” I smiled and then hung up, relieved that I had at least gotten the frustration off my chest. She was right. It was only my first day. I could still find better work down the line, and just keep my job at avalanche until something better came along.

  I ran some hot water and then cautiously climbed into the tub. My feet were sore and my legs were tired. I wondered how efficient I’d be at the restaurant once my pregnancy progressed. What if it only got harder? I fought back the desire to slide into a realm of self-pity. I would have to make it work, and that was all there was to it.

  I knew that if my parents were still alive, they’d both tell me to keep my chin up and persevere. I rested my body in the bubbly water, confident that I’d summon the strength that would be necessary to see me through. I had seen hard times growing up as a girl, and I told myself that this would just be more character building experience for my life’s journey. I picked up a bar of soap and slid it along my legs. Then I placed it back into the soap dish, closed my eyes and doze off in the soapy, scented water.

  I could see his face clear as day. His little button nose was tiny and warm, and his eyes were pale blue. His hair was dark and it curled down onto his forehead in a perfect little swirl. I could almost smell his breath and feel his petal soft skin. I leaned forward just as he opened his mouth to cry and called out his name “Joseph Michael.” Then I jolted forward in the tub.

  I reached for a towel and then smiled as I dressed in my pajamas. The baby would be here in less than seven months. I needed to find a bassinet and clothes. I needed blanket and book, and maybe some toys. Where would I put his nursery? Would I use the old laundry room down the hall? My mind drifted with thoughts of the future, and again I fought the urge to cry. Joe would have been so excited to find out that we were having a baby.

  After I was in bed, I thought about what Rebecca had said. It was only my first day. Maybe it would get better. I rolled over and closed my eyes, then thought about how great it would be to finally have some money in my pocket. I pictured walking into Avalanche the next day with a big smile on my face. Maybe someone would leave me a gracious tip and it would make up for all the running around. The light from the moon filtered into the room, making a zig-zag pattern on the bed. I thought once more about Joseph-Michael, then finally drifted off to sleep.

  Chapter 6

  When I got up the next morning it was sunny and some of the snow had started to melt. I pulled out my black skirt and my red shirt, then walked into the bathroom and looked at my face in the mirror. I wondered if maybe wearing a little mascara would liven up my eyes, so I tried some and then even applied a little lip-gloss. I pulled my hair up in a bun and then walked out of the bathroom and toward the door.

  “Good morning, Alyssa.” My neighbor, Ginger, waved as I got inside the truck. I waved back and then started the ignition and made my way to Avalanche. When I got there, it was packed as usual. Tim greeted me when I entered.

  “Hi, Alyssa. How was your first day?” He looked at me with a genuinely interested expression, and I felt a pang of guilt over the fact that I’d have to lie.

  “It was just great. I love everyone who works here and the customers tip really well.” I smiled and then looked around at the crowd. My fatigue was already creeping in and my nausea was rearing its ugly head, as well. I hoped that as I got further along in my pregnancy some of these awful symptoms would subside, but I didn’t know what to expect.

  “Well I’m glad that everything went well. Tonight we’ll probably be extra busy since Bozeman College is hosting their annual fundraiser.” He smoothed his hands over his jeans and then looked around the restaurant. “I’m heading back into the kitchen to work on some of the orders. Holler if you need me.” With that, he was gone, and I remained standing in the middle of the restaurant, anticipating the flux of customers that were bound to enter at any minute.

  I tied on my apron and then headed to my section which was on the left side of the restaurant. “Hey, miss, can you come here a minute?” I heard a man’s voice call to me form one of the tables that wasn’t in my section. I looked around and didn’t see any other waitresses on the floor.

  “Hello. What can I help you with?” I smiled and looked at the man’s face. He had mysterious green eyes that seemed to give off a subtle glint, and his thick, wavy hair framed his face with a rugged flair. He wore a denim button down with a pair of jeans, and he had a wool scarf tossed over one shoulder.

  “Well…” He paused and gave me a good once-over. “I was hoping to get one of those incredible stouts you have on tap, and I was also hoping to get your phone number, too.” He raised his eyebrows and I blushed. His comment had taken me completely off-guard and I wasn’t sure how to respond.

  “I’ll go get you the beer.” I smiled and then walked away to the bar. It had been so long since a man had even flirted with me that I had no idea how to react. Ever since Joe and I had dated, all of the local men knew that I was taken, and none of them ever tried to vie for my attention. The man at the table was handsome- that was for sure. Yet I couldn’t even imagine giving someone my
phone number. I felt like it would be a betrayal to Joe.

  I scurried behind the bar and could feel the man’s eyes on me. I reached for a mug, set it under the tap, and poured his beer. Then I walked quickly to his table and set it down just as he reached out and handed me his business card. “If you’re going to be shy, I’ll just give you my number first.” He winked and I placed the beer on top of his table.

  “I’ll be back in a few minutes to see what else you need.” I smiled and then disappeared behind the bar. It was filling up quickly inside, and Tim’s prediction was true. By eight o’clock, we had a full house and most of the clientele was college aged men looking for beer and burgers. I waited on a few table and then checked back on the attractive man who had ordered the beer.

  “Looks like you guys have quite the crowd in here tonight.” He grinned and then tossed back the last sip of his beer. I nodded my head.

  “That’s an understatement.” I picked up his empty mug and then watched as the front door opened and more people filed in. “I’m actually heading to the other side to wait on some tables, so if you’d like to order anything from the menu, just let me know.” I smiled and then smoothed my hands over my shirt. I was self-conscious of looking pregnant, even though it was still so early.

  “I’ll take another beer.” He grinned and then leaned forward in his chair. “My name’s Christopher, by the way. I own Bobcat Ranch down on the ridge.” He nodded his head and then stared at me with those glowing, mysterious eyes. “I’ve got a huge piece of property with lots of Appaloosas if you’re ever interested in going riding.” His voice was deep and smooth, and it was hard not to stare at his rough, yet chiseled features.

  “I’ll be back in a few minutes.” I politely walked away, hoping that he didn’t take offense to my lack of conversation. When I got to the bar and poured him another beer, Tim appeared from the kitchen.

  “How’s it going out there tonight?” He scanned the restaurant, taking in all the activity.

  “I’m busy, but it’s going well. Thanks.” I topped off Christopher’s beer and was just about to walk away when Tim raised his eyebrows. “I see that Christopher Marlow is out tonight. He’s one of our regulars. Good guy.” Tim raised his eyebrows and then walked away.

  For a second I thought about Joe. What would he make of me working in a busy restaurant like this? What would he think of all the young, drunk men who stumbled out at two a.m. when I was trying to walk to the truck? I couldn’t help thinking about him and wondering what he’d have to say.

  “Here you go.” I set down Christopher’s beer and then smiled. He folded his hands on the table and then lifted the frosty drink to his mouth.

  “Thank you. Maybe next time I come in you’ll think about telling me your name.” He winked and then watched as I turned around to leave. I walked to the kitchen to pick up a food order and stood against the counter. I was exhausted. “Okay there?” One of the waitresses walked by and checked on me. I nodded my head and smiled, then closed my eyes for a few seconds.

  The warm air made me feel sleepier than I already was. I opened my eyes and looked at the clock to see how soon before my shift was over. Luckily, I had only one hour to go. I saw my order come up in the window and slid it onto my tray. Then I headed back out to my tables. I dropped the food off to the right guests, then turned and walked to Christopher’s table. I dropped off his check then turned around before he could speak. I got about a foot away and stopped in my tracks. Then I turned around and took a deep breath.

  “My name’s Alyssa.” I smiled and then walked away.

  Chapter 7

  Later that night, I sat on the edge of my bed and rubbed my feet. Joe used to give me frequent foot massages and I smiled thinking back to all of his personal touches that I’d never feel again. I got up and looked out the window. Lizzie wandered around the corral and tried to step on top of the large snow drifts that had settled along the fence. I thought about calling Rebecca but decided to just make a cup of tea, instead. I had to be up early to work the morning shift, and I wanted to get a good night’s rest.

  When I stepped into Avalanche the next day, Christopher was sitting at the bar. I remembered Tim telling me that he was a regular, so it shouldn’t have been much of a surprise. However, it still caught me off-guard, and I wondered if he had known that I would be working. “Good morning, Alyssa. It’s nice to see you two days in a row.” He flashed me his signature smile and I gave him a polite nod.

  I walked to the kitchen and got my apron, then appeared back on the floor just in time to see him get up from his seat and approach me. “Getting some breakfast?” I didn’t want to be rude by ignoring him, so I tried to make innocent small talk when he stood before me.

  “I am, actually. I’ve got a tour coming around one, so I thought I’d get some of the town’s best blueberry pancakes in me before the big event.” He winked and then put a hand on my shoulder. “What are you doing after work today? You should stop by the ranch.” His hand felt warm through my shirt and I was distracted by the slight twinge of excitement that emanated from his touch.

  “Sorry. I have to work a double-shift today.” I walked away and waited on another table. After I had taken their order I hustled back to the bar. “Can I get you a drink while you’re waiting for your pancakes?” I smiled and then looked away. For reasons still unclear, it felt to me like I was actually beginning to enjoy his flirtatious game. How could that be? I had just lost the love of my life, and I knew that there was no replacing him. Why would I even entertain the thought of being with another man?

  “Well, we could always meet up after your shift. Why don’t you let me buy you a drink over at Moose Creek Tavern?” He looked sincere and it was hard for me to think about turning him down again. I bit my lower lip and then thought about how ludicrous it all sounded. Drinking at a tavern with a total stranger? Had I lost my mind? Besides- I was pregnant. How much fun would I really have in that kind of environment?

  “I could meet you around seven.” I tossed my hair over my shoulder and then looked across the restaurant as the tables filled with guests. Christopher’s face lit up.

  “You actually said yes. That’s what I like.” He winked and then cocked his head to the side with a playful smile. “You sure did play hard to get.” He chuckled and then folded his hands on the table. I smiled and then walked to the back of the waitress station, biting my nails with anxiety. What had I just done? Part of me was shocked with my behavior, and part of me was excited with the game.

  “I guess I’ll see you there.” I batted my lashes and then flitted away. When I got into the kitchen one of the other waitresses grabbed me by the arm.

  “Girl, I see you out there giving Christopher Marlow the googly eyes.” She grinned and then smacked me playfully with a cloth napkin.

  “Oh, hush.” I rolled my eyes and picked up a clean drink tray. “He’s just being polite because he knows I’m new here.” I tried to brush her off but she knew better.

  “No.” she grinned and shook her head. “I know what googly eyes look like, and there was no mistaking them out there.” She laughed and then scooted away. I couldn’t believe what I was hearing, and I stood there for a second in disbelief. I had just agreed to a date, and I actually wanted to go. The conflicting emotions didn’t make sense. How could I be so torn up from the loss of Joe at the same time that I felt excited by a handsome stranger?

  For the rest of my shift I second-guessed my behavior. I had the uncomfortable feeling that I was betraying Joe, even though I knew that all he ever wanted for me was happiness. We had been so perfect together that it sent a wave of confusion through my mind when I realized that I would be going out with someone else in less than four hours. How could I be so double-sided?

  I cleaned up after my tables and then prepared to go home. Just as I was walking out the door, Tim approached me from behind the bar. “Hey, Alyssa. You got a minute?” He walked in his confident yet casual manner toward me. “I just wanted to hear
about how it’s going. What do you think about working at Avalanche?” I knew that he was genuinely interested in knowing whether I was happy here.

  “I like it, Tim.” It was hard to lie to him because he was truthfully a genuine person, but at the same time I knew better than to tell him that I loathed waiting on drunk people, that I hated the way my clothes smelled like barbeque sauce after my shift, that I couldn’t stand how most of the waitresses gossiped about other employees, that I was so exhausted at the end of the day that I could barely walk to my truck.

  “I’m glad to hear that, because I was hoping you’d be interested in picking up a few extra shifts as we approach the holidays.” He gave me a hopeful look and I nodded my head with affirmation.

  “Sure. That sounds great. I could use the extra money.” As much as I dreaded the thought of having to spend any extra time inside Avalanche than I already did, I was also excited at the thought of earning a little extra money. The baby would be here in less than five months, and I still had a lot of bare necessities that needed to be purchased.

  “Great. I’ll fill you in on the dates as soon as I get the next schedule up.” Tim smiled and then opened the door to let me out. I wrapped my scarf around my neck and then headed out into the sun-drenched afternoon. It was only about a fifteen-minute ride home, and I spent all of it wondering what I’d wear on my date with Christopher.

  When I got inside, I sat down on the couch and closed my eyes. The symptoms of my pregnancy had evolved into a sort of persistent nausea coupled with debilitating fatigue that had so far not responded to any kind of rest or remedy. I dropped my head into my hands and thought about cancelling the date. I felt awful and I wasn’t so sure that I even wanted to tell Christopher that I was pregnant, even though it would explain why I often looked like a sea-sick sailor.

  After a few minutes I got up and stood in front of my closet. I skimmed through several shirts and skirts, ultimately deciding on a pair of red leggings and a long, beige sweater. It was a comforting, yet chic outfit, and I had the right pair of boots to go with it, as well. I ran a brush through my long, thick hair and then looked at my face in the mirror. My eyes looked sleepy, yet still alluring. I had always been told that I looked like one of those models who could leave the house without a spot of make-up and still look great.