Page 20 of A Spark of Luck
Three hundred and sixty-two days of this craptastic argument in his head.
Three hundred and sixty-two days of unrelenting hurt from the reality of not having her next to him.
Honestly, a talk with the shrink might be in order, but he would never admit any of what he was thinking to anyone in a professional capacity. Doogie was a better choice.
He toyed with his meal to keep his hands occupied, lost in every nuance of his memories – Cait’s eyes, her hands, her sighs.
Doogie slid in across from him. “You napping or what?”
“Waiting for you. I know better than to finish dessert without you.”
Maisy reached the table. “What can I get you?”
Doogie looked to Hunt. “What’s good?”
“Everything.”
Maisy smiled. “Glad you think so.”
Doogie didn’t even go for the menu propped by the napkins on the table. “You got chicken fried steak and French fries?”
“Yes. You want that with pie or vegetables?”
“Both.” Doogie grinned. “Apple pie and don’t care what kind of vegetable. Throw it on. Water to drink is fine.”
Maisy looked at Hunt. “Need anything else?”
“More coffee would be great, Maisy. Thank you.”
She gave him a grin. “I knew it.”
Doogie watched her walk away and continued with a thorough look around. “You eat here a lot?”
“Yes.” Hunt nodded at the front door. “Exit up front, exit out the kitchen, and another one by the rest rooms on the other end. Police and locals mostly eat here.”
Doogie smirked. “You caught me. Why have I never eaten here with you?”
“Never came up, and it’s my thinking spot.”
“You can’t have friends in your thinking spot?”
“Will you stop.” Hunt threw his napkin at the man.
Doogie caught it and tossed it back. “Lame throw. What’s up?” He stole a fry off Hunt’s plate.
“Cait Michaels.”
Doogie froze, French fry halfway to his mouth. His eyebrows rose. “Are you serious?” His voice dropped into a half whisper, half reference tone.
“Yes.”
“Finally.” He grinned and popped the fry into his mouth. “Do tell.”
Jesus, where to begin.
“She’s in San Antonio.”
Doogie’s eyes widened. “Dude, you looked for her?”
