You also want an ePaper? Increase the reach of your titles
YUMPU automatically turns print PDFs into web optimized ePapers that Google loves.
Her cheeks flame, “I’m, I’m sorry, Sir. You’re right Sir. I was wrong to think<br />
about it; $11.34, Sir.” She takes his card, he plays his game.<br />
Navy steps right. I snap my files on the counter, lips ironed shut, fists<br />
clenched and arms folded and locked while my psychic hugs wrap Alison.<br />
Her fingernails gnawed, Alison places two silver decanters, ceramic cups and<br />
utensils on a tray. She turns but her foot catches on the rubber mat. She flies<br />
forward, hurling the contents of the tray. The Boston Tea Party relives when it<br />
was just two cups.<br />
Skin mottled, Alison’s eyes well with tears, “Oh my God, no! I’m so sorry!<br />
Kathryn, your files, I’m so sorry,” she clamors for towels.<br />
Navy picks up the pieces. My teeth clenched, I rip rebellious napkins from the<br />
holder into my fisted hand. Alison returns with towels which Navy takes. I swipe<br />
them away.<br />
“It’s okay Alison, it’s okay,” I soothe. Her tears brimming, I take her hand, “I’ll<br />
wipe this up; please don’t worry. Just get his order.” I lean closer, “It’s okay<br />
Alison, it’s a small moment in time; we’ll get through this together, okay?”<br />
Her lip trembles. From the corner of my eye, Navy aligns contents on the<br />
tray, soaked napkins in his hand. Outraged, I slap my towel on the counter.<br />
His suited arm comes forward to take it. “Here now, I’ll get this.”<br />
I wipe and swipe. Pinched lips don’t sink ships, I let go, “You are the most<br />
arrogant, selfish, controlling and just, just pedantic man I’ve ever met.” I rip more<br />
napkins from the holder.<br />
“I can take those for you,” his command softens.<br />
The Rules of Life by Melissa Abbott-Cooke. Contact: Melissa@therulesoflifebook.com 615-669-5643 21
Change language