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“Hurry, we’re going to be late for dinner. If you wouldn’t have waited until the last minute to pick me up, we wouldn’t need to rush like this.” Vivian slipped her right hand around Benjamin’s arm as he shut the car door. She loathed not being on time and he knew that. “We wouldn’t need to be parked three blocks away either.”
“I didn’t mean to be so far behind schedule.” He smiled politely. “Work turned out to be quite hectic today. I’m sure you heard your father won the bid yesterday, so we need to get all the supplies promptly.”
That smile was meant to pacify her, she’d seen it before. How dare he. She’d spent the whole day getting ready for him and he couldn’t even leave work a little sooner. “Well, congratulations on the job. Although, you should realize I’m more important than work.” Vivian touched the stubbles on his face. “You didn’t even shave.”
Benjamin placed his hand on top of hers, lowering it into the crook of his arm. “I’m sorry. I should have been ready on time and more presentable.” He pulled out his pocket watch. “We have five minutes. If you don’t want to be late, our only choice now is to run.”
“Fine, but I hope you won’t put me in this situation next time.”
His long strides pulled her along with him.
Vivian’s lengthy floral dress hadn’t been designed for a dash down the sidewalk. Nor were her black leather pumps with a strap across the instep. She held her oversized ostrich feathered hat in place with her left hand. After a couple blocks, she panted, “Slow down. I can’t keep up.”
He changed his steps to a quick march. “Your dress looks swell, is it new?”
“Yes, it’s the one I told you I bought.” The one he could have seen a month ago if he would have agreed to take her anywhere that night but instead chose a pointless card game. He sure seemed to know how to provoke a reaction from her this past year, just like purposely rubbing a cat’s fur the wrong way.
“I thought it might be.”
Darn the man, he didn’t even sound the least bit out of breath. “I’m pleased I finally have somewhere to wear it,” she hissed. The dampness under her arms would likely leave noticeable stains on the delicate silk. She’d probably never wear this dress again.
He reached for the Hotel Charles’ door handle.
She yanked his arm. “Wait! I know you may not care how presentable you are, but I do.” She ran her hands down the sides of her dress, adjusted the hat on her head, and tucked any loose strands of hair back in place. His eyes were darting between the door and her fussing. “Do you have a handkerchief?”
“Yes.” He pulled it from his breast pocket. “Really, you look fine.”
“I want to appear more than just fine.” She dabbed the cloth on her face and neck, handing it back to him. “All right, I’m ready.”
His lip curled slightly. He stuffed the moist hanky into his jacket pocket and opened the wooden door.
The restaurant owner at Hotel Charles greeted them at the entryway. “Glad to see you again, Mister Benjamin.” The proprietor nodded. “Miss. Your requested table is ready. Come, follow me.” He led them to the far corner of the restaurant to a private table partially hidden by a half wall. The owner pulled the chair out for her. “Your waitress will be over soon. Have an enjoyable evening.”
Vivian kept her gaze on Benjamin from across the table, waiting for him to look at her, but he didn’t. His cheeks were flushed and short, coarse dark hair protruded around the jawline and lips. Any kisses wouldn’t be the romantic ones she’d envisioned for tonight. What would it have taken him, five lousy minutes? Now his sandpapered face would rub her delicate skin raw and the tonic treatment she received earlier be wasted.
He picked up his water glass, took a long drink, and stared into the dining room. His thoughts seemed occupied elsewhere. Why was he ignoring her presence? “Benjamin.”
“Yes?” He finally paid her the attention she deserved.
“What has you so quiet?”
“I can’t believe how many people are here.”
“If you’d taken me here more often, maybe you would have noticed how busy this place can get.”
Benjamin’s brow furrowed.
“Well, they have the best food and it is the weekend.” They better not run out of the meal she chose. They really should have had reservations earlier than six-thirty. “I don’t know why you seem so surprised. Isn’t this the same place you play your card game?”
“Yes, but Thursday nights aren’t so full.” Benjamin tugged the knot back and forth on his silk green necktie. “Your hair is curlier. Did you get it done today?”
At least he still noticed the small things she changed about herself. “Yes, my nails too.” She held both hands above the table. Her new white filigree bracelet slipped forward. “The color is cornflower blue. Doesn’t it go well with my new dress?” She paid attention to his changes too. He seemed a bit on edge tonight.
“Yes, they go well together.” He glanced at the menu. “Do you know what you’d like for dinner? We should probably decide before the waitress comes over.”
Vivian picked up the menu. Although Benjamin didn’t bring her gifts, he did take her to one of the most expensive restaurants in town. She loved how the tall walls were decorated with lovely floral wallpaper on top, but accentuated by dark wooden beadboard at the bottom. Each of the tables was lit with a single candle. He couldn’t have been more dashing in the flickering light. A double-breasted brown plaid suit complemented his complexion and hair. She could probably ease up a little on his money tonight and order a less expensive meal. “I’ll have the dinner special.”
“Good choice, I think I’ll have the same.”
Vivian put the menu aside and placed her hands in her lap. “At the parlor today, Sallie asked if tonight was something special and I told her I didn’t know.” She awaited a reply, but he said nothing. This night was special for her. She wouldn’t have sat in the parlor half the day if she hadn’t looked forward to being with him tonight. Maybe he was so reserved as to not ruin a surprise. After all, they were seated at a private table. She couldn’t wait any longer. Apparently, she’d have to try and pry the secret out of him. “Is there any reason in particular?”
“Reason?” His eyes rolled upward as if he were searching for an answer. “No, nothing special. We haven’t been to dinner in a while.”
“I thought it was about time too.” She gave him a half-smile. He wasn’t going to make finding out what he was hiding easy on her. “It has been way too long.” She accentuated the word as a hint and hoped he’d make a mental note. With any luck, next time wouldn’t be too far off. “Did you know in a few days it will be the anniversary of our first kiss?”
“Our first kiss?” His head jerked back and he appeared caught, like a mouse in a trap. “Hmmm, our first kiss. You don’t say.”
A tall blonde-haired woman approached the table with a pad of paper and set down a basket of warm rolls.
Benjamin pointed to the item on the menu. “We’ll have two dinner specials.”
Blondie gave him a smile and a wink. “I’ll get your order going right away. Anything to drink, sir, other than the water?”
“No, the water is adequate.”
The waitress waltzed away with her hips swinging to and fro as if she were in a seductive dance contest.
Vivian turned away from the waitress’s illicit behavior, but Benjamin’s glance seemed far too long. She held her index finger above the table and waved it in the air. “Do I have your attention? We were talking about the importance of the upcoming date before the interrupted rudeness. I speculate you forgot.” She touched his hand firmly. If he didn’t remember who he came with, he should now. “I can overlook you not knowing since I recently had to verify myself.”
Benjamin unrolled the utensils from the napkin and placed the cloth in his lap. “You’re right. I hadn’t remembered the exact date.”
She brushed at her attention-getting feather hanging off her hat. The fluffy quill usually captivated people but not so tonight with Benjamin. He’d better at least get the answer to her question right. “Do you at least recall where our first kiss occurred?” That night had been momentous for her. If he couldn’t come up with the correct answer, the evening might be ruined.
He sat up straight in the chair, clearing his throat. “A few blocks before your house after I walked you home from the fair.”
Vivian could hardly contain her enthusiasm. He had passed her inquiry for the most part. “Almost, it was only one block. You are right though; it was the fair. I’m so delighted you remembered.” She tilted her head and fluttered her lashes. “For me, I fell in love with you the night you kissed me.” She took her napkin from the table, placing it in her lap. “Is that how you recall the night?”
“I know it had been a swell night.”
“Swell indeed.” Vivian took a roll from the basket and pulled the top away from the bottom. “I’m famished, what is taking them so long? A dinner special should be quicker than this.” She took a bite of the bread.
“I’m sure it won’t be too much longer.”
Vivian hadn’t appreciated how the waitress winked at Benjamin. Even her voice sounded kittenish, maybe it was the reason her tail wagged so much. Perhaps Miss Wiggles needed more of a clue Benjamin belonged to her. If Vivian caressed her face with her left hand, the candlelight would surely catch the diamond on her ring finger. There would be no way Miss Wiggles could mistake the twinkle from her engagement ring. Vivian stuck another piece bread in her mouth.
A clanging noise erupted from across the table. Benjamin had been fiddling with his silverware and the butter dish.
“Benjamin!”
“Yes?”
“Those are for eating. Not playing.”
One of Benjamin’s eyebrows rose into a disapproving arch. He moved the knife and spoon back into its proper place and bit into the buttered roll.
She rocked her left hand in the glimmer of candlelight playing on her diamond ring. “I have some lovely news.”
“Tell me.”
“Fredrick agreed to cater our wedding.” Vivian placed her diamond hand over her heart. “The best part is he has an opening on the Fourth of July.”
“That’s only two weeks away. I couldn’t possibly—”
“Seventeen days to be exact.” The stunned expression on his face gave her slight concern. “I can help you with your suit. There’s no need to worry.” If she could have everything else ready, why should he be worried? “Besides, Fredrick only had one opening left for a summer wedding and I told him we’d take it.”
“What?”
“Think about it this way, the date will be easier for you to remember.” She adjusted the napkin on her lap. “Here comes our food.”
“Two dinner specials.” Miss Wiggles set a plate in front of Vivian and then served Benjamin. “Be careful, the plates are a little hot. Are we all set here or can I get either of you anything else?”
Vivian bounced the fingertips of her left hand on top of her cheek.
Benjamin tilted his head at Vivian. “Do you have an itch?”
Vivian glared at him with pursed lips.
He glanced back at the waitress. “No, this will do.”
Miss Wiggles winked again. “All right, I’ll be back to check on you in two shakes of a lamb’s tail.”
Benjamin grinned.
Vivian couldn’t believe he was going along with Miss Wiggles’ flirtations...and right in front of her too. “I cannot believe how you smile with that come-hither look after she winks at you.”
“I thought it was funny. Her lamb’s tail comment made me think of Louie except he would have said sheep, goat, or pig.” He chuckled.
“I don’t find humor in this at all.” Vivian took a bite, swallowed, and dabbed her lips. “At the very least, the waitress must be looking for a good tip from you. I can’t believe how many times she has winked at you. I’m sitting right here. She hasn’t even looked at me once.”
“I’m sure it’s not only me.” Benjamin cut into the slice of roast beef. “I’ll bet she’s friendly with all the patrons.” He slid the forkful into his mouth. “Maybe we should change the subject and talk about something else.”
“Women who flaunt themselves around attached men are a name I’d rather not say.” Vivian put her fork down. “I’m too much of a lady.”
“Please don’t get upset. That’s the last thing I want to happen this evening.” He gave her a sidelong glance. “You’re not done eating, are you? I thought you were hungry.” He stabbed a few green beans. “You’ve barely touched your food. Don’t you like it?”
“Yes, except I lost my appetite.” Tonight hadn’t gone at all how she wanted. Especially since she didn’t receive the reaction she sought regarding the wedding news. A summer wedding fulfilled her dreams and everything had fallen into place perfectly when Fredrick suggested the holiday wedding. There would be no way she would wait until next year. Marrying after she turned thirty would be out of the question. She had to figure out why Benjamin appeared out of sorts. He hadn’t spoken much and seemed starving by the way he’d gulped down his food. No matter what, he would need to see things her way. He always did and this time wouldn’t be any different. But why did he need to make it so exasperating?
Benjamin wiped his chin. “I hope you’re saving a little room for dessert. One of my favorites was on the board at the entrance when we came in.” He tipped his glass up toward his lips. “The waitress is on the way over now.” He polished off the remaining water in his goblet.
“Maybe I’ll have a bite or two of yours.”
Miss Wiggles filled the water glasses. “How’s everything tasting?”
“It’s all delicious.” Benjamin adjusted the napkin on his lap. “I’d like a piece of Portsmouth orange cake.”
“Good choice, I’ll be back shortly.” Miss Wiggles swung her oversized hips toward the kitchen.
“See, I told you.” Vivian shook her finger back and forth. “She didn’t look at me once or ask if I wanted any dessert.”
Benjamin picked up a roll and soaked up the remaining gravy on his plate. “Would you like some cake?”
“No.”
“How about having some coffee with me? We can have it with dessert.”
“A cup would be fine.” The food smelled rich, especially the creamy mashed potatoes. Vivian picked up her fork, taking a few small bites. “I thought we could go for a drive after dinner or if you’d prefer maybe a stroll downtown.” They needed quiet so she could find out what was on his mind.
“Yes, maybe. We’ll have to see what the weather is like.” Benjamin placed his silverware on the plate. “I heard it might rain.”
Miss Wiggles placed the plate between them. “Here’s the orange cake. I took the largest piece I could find. That way the two of you can share.” She winked at Vivian. “I’ll take your plate, Miss. Looks like you saved some room for dessert. Is there anything else I can get for you?”
Benjamin turned Vivian’s coffee cup over. “Some coffee for the lady.” He placed his cup right side up on the saucer. “Make it two cups, please.”
“Coming right up.” The waitress sashayed toward the corner table with the brewing device.
“Did I see her wink at you?” The side of his lip curved upward.
Vivian picked up her fork, hacking through a small corner piece of cake. “She did, the hussy. I’m sure she’s hoping I get fat eating the dessert.” The forkful slid between her lips.
He shook his head and his mouth formed a tight straight line. “If you’ll excuse me, I’ll be back in a moment.”
She could not care less if he’d been bothered by how she perceived the waitress’s actions. He was her man and now she’d indulge in more cake. The orange flavor was sweeter than expected and the cake itself so moist each crumb stuck to the fork. Every serving made her crave more. She could understand why it had become his favorite, but not why he seemed so emotionally aloof tonight. Benjamin’s abrupt response to the wedding and the small talk afterward led her to believe he was conflicted. Or maybe the large new job with her father put him under too much stress. She needed to find out either way. Before long a scanty couple of bites remained.
“Coffee, Miss?”
“Yes, please.”
Miss Wiggles filled her cup.
“Thank you.”
“Anything else you’d like?”
“No, that will be all.” The fork cut through the last piece, slicing it in half. As she put it in her mouth, she savored the delicate morsel. Perhaps she should take Benjamin lunch at work next week. The tension he had been under must be from there. Marrying her had to be the best thing happening to him right now.
She put her hand under her chin, fixating on the small cake piece. Time ticked slower than the minutes under the hairdryer, waiting for him to return. Her fork poked into the last crumbs and she glided the cutlery through her lips. As soon as she located Miss Wiggles, she would order another piece. She turned her head, focusing on the path Benjamin had taken through the dining room. Several minutes passed until he approached. His hands rubbed intensely up and down on his wool pants. Her heart palpitated. Whatever he had to say, she’d reassure him. If the wedding news had given him the jitters, she’d tell him he’d be a fine husband. If he had stress from work, she’d help him relax.
Benjamin plopped onto the seat, stared down at the empty cake plate, and unbuttoned the top button on his yellow shirt. “I don’t know where to start.” He straightened his tie, glanced at her, and back to the table. “So, I’m just going to let you know how I feel.” He took a deep breath and slowly exhaled. “I haven’t been happy for a long time.”
“Is something wrong at work?”
“No.” He scratched at his skin under his shirt collar. “It’s us.”
Her stomach tightened around the cake, turning it into a hard ball. “Us? I have no idea what you’re talking about—you haven’t said anything to me—ever.” Her mind raced for an answer. “I’ll order you another piece of cake. I shouldn’t have eaten it all.”
“It’s not the cake.” He rubbed his hand vigorously across his forehead. “I’ve tried many times to say how I’ve been feeling.” The tone of his voice dropped. “But you didn’t listen.”
“We can work this out.” Her chest tightened.
“I’m sorry.”
What? He’s sorry? He can’t mean he’s leaving me. No, she had to fix this. “If you’re nervous about the wedding I can ask Fredrick for a later date. We can get married in the fall or even the winter. A white wedding would be fine with me.”
“No.” His posture stiffened against the chair.
She couldn’t bring enough air into her lungs. “Why are you doing this to me?” Her palms pushed hard against the table. Oh, God, this wasn’t happening. Not to her. “There’s someone else, there has to be. I’m right, aren’t I?”
He reached across to touch her hand. “Please calm down.”
Vivian yanked her hand away as heat spread from her neck up to her face. “Calm down? You want me to calm down? Obviously, you had every intention when you brought me here to end our relationship in front of all these people. Now you want me to calm down? I won’t. You can’t make me.”
The dining room had become quiet.
She pointed at the hushed crowd. “You have their undivided attention. Tell them how much you detest being with me.” He should be the one embarrassed by his horrific actions.
Benjamin leaned forward, voice low. “Please, Vivian, don’t make this any harder than it is. I brought you here because at one time we were both in love. I wanted to show you I still care about you even though I don’t think we should get married. I hoped we could remain friends—”
“Friends?” Her lower lip started to quiver.
Benjamin offered her a handkerchief.
There was no way she would give him the satisfaction of seeing her cry. She grabbed her shawl and bolted from the table, weaving her way through the packed dining room toward the front doors. A stinging sensation eased its way from her nose upward to her eyes. Every step she took was aimed at the intention of not humiliating herself any more than she already had. Than he had.
She chose a path to the left, but a man stood blocking the way. Circling the table, she headed through the passageway toward the entrance until a highchair obstructed her. She readjusted her exit.
The tears were filling her eyes no matter how rapidly she blinked. Her throat constricted as if someone were strangling her. She scurried around the next row of crammed tables. The dining room was like a never-ending maze of gaping faces and whispers behind hands.
A new pathway became bleary through her tear-soaked vision. A man in a white busboy uniform closed off the only way out. She attempted to forge through anyway. As she squeezed by, she caught her foot on a chair leg and stumbled. She grabbed hold of the busboy’s jacket tail. They tumbled to the floor along with a stack of plates. Dishes flew in multiple directions, falling around them in a rhythmic clamor and shattering into tiny pieces.
Something cold, wet, and slimy covered her face while her back pressed the floor. She wiped at her eyelids and it oozed into her hair. As her eyes focused, the busboy was pinning her down and blowing hot breath two inches above her face. His cheek dimples and round face made him look like a baby. “Get off me.”
“Are you all right?” The busboy’s voice shook with each word. He lifted himself off of her and knelt by her side.
She sat and brushed pieces of lettuce salad off her dress. The sliminess matting down her hair must be dressing. “What did you do?” He’d ruined her dress, that’s for sure. She shook her hands, splattering dressing and food bits onto the floor.
The busboy handed the feathered hat to her. “I’m so sorry.”
Everyone had been out to humiliate her tonight. She couldn’t swallow the sob trapped in her throat. All around her, a circle of legs had formed. She placed her hat on her head, tugging it down as far as she could. Her stomach roiled. Everyone in the entire place closed in on her. Convulsive gasps shook her body.
“Vivian.”
As she peered out from under the brim, Benjamin stood above, offering his hand. Between the sobs, she gathered enough wind and wobbled onto her feet. Shielding her face with her hand, she fled out the door onto the sidewalk. People parted like the Red Sea while she ran through the crowd, but she had to stop at the intersection.
“Vivian, Vivian!”
No explanation from Benjamin would suffice. She haphazardly crossed through the oncoming cars as their horns honked and tires squealed. Friends! She’d show him friends. Jackass!