“So, how was your night?” asked Jerry.
“We had a nice dinner, a nice walk, and we got to know each other.”
“What’s she like?” asked Bella.
“She seems to have a soft side once you get to know her and get through some of the defenses she’s built up. So, how was White Castle?”
“It was great!” bellowed Bella. Nick smiled. He had yet to meet someone so entranced with the mini-burger place as Bella. “We got free coupons, so the next time we go, it’ll be free! You can come too!”
“To White Castle? I don’t think so,” Nick said. Jerry scowled. “But thanks for the invite. And Jerry, Dad wants to know if you’re coming over tonight for dinner.”
“That would be great. Bella’s working out tonight.”
“Cool. Be there by six forty-five, or he’ll start eating without us.”
*****
The doorbell rang at six forty-five on the dot. Sal was putting the food on the table.
“Big Jer is in the house,” he announced.
“Yes, I am, and I’m looking forward to this evening. Last night I
did something I was not proud of.” “Oh, yeah? Like what?” asked Sal. “I had dinner at White Castle.”
“What kind of sick bastard are you, Jerry?” chided Sal. His plate
of pasta encircled his face with steam.
“Funny you should ask, because that’s exactly what happened to me after my meal.”
“Well-deserved,” said Sal. “Sit down. Eat some real food.”
For twenty minutes, the three men were virtually silent. Sal’s meal left no room to use the mouth to speak. After some dishes had been cleared, Nick took a sip of his coffee and sat back in his chair.
“Any calls from the good doctor today?” asked Sal.
“She left me a message thanking me for dinner last night, but
she was busy with cases, so that was about it.” “So what’s your next move?” asked Jerry. “My next move?”