Page 56 of Brett and Rowdy

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“Two for lunch, gents?” the host said.

“Three.” Rowdy chuckled. “My baby girl is shopping for boots.”

“Y’all are brave men. Come on. Just tell her to let me know y’all are already seated.”

“Thanks.” Brett let Rowdy take his arm but sort of decided how to navigate a little too. They had to wend between tables, so Barney was working it hard.

“Here we go.” They got seated. “Would you like a braille menu?”

“No, sir. I know what I want,” Rowdy said.

“Then what can I get you to drink?” The host handed a menu to Brett.

“Water to start. It’s warm out there.”

“Same for me,” Brett murmured.

“I’ll have your server right over.” He got a wink, and he had to chuckle.

“All good?”

“Yeah. He’s just got our number. I think he was flirting a little.” No doubt the kid was used to all sorts of tourists.

“Well, good on him. As long as you weren’t looking.”

“I was not.” On that, he was sure. “I got all I need.”

Rowdy took off his hat, lying it brim up on the table, and his cheeks were very pink. And not from sun.

“I like that.”

“Mmm. So, whatareyou going to have?” He glanced at the menu, not sure if he should tease more or let it go. He was still learning adult Rowdy.

“The New York strip.” Rowdy smacked his lips. “With a baked potato and salad with ranch. They have the best ranch.”

Well, that was definite. “I was thinking the steak and shrimp.”

“Oh, you should. Gulf shrimp.”

“Sounds good.”

“Daddy! There you are.” Madison breezed right up to the table and flopped down, three shopping bags in each hand. “I see how you are. Not wanting to help me carry.”

“I’m old and blind, baby girl,” Rowdy said, looking pitiful.

“Ha! Brett, you’re strong. You can carry them to the truck after.”

“You bet, kiddo.”

She grabbed his menu. “I totally want onion rings. You getting the strip, Daddy?”

“I am. You gonna get steak or a burger?”

“Oh, good question.” She peered at the menu. “The prime cheeseburger sounds amazing. With a fried egg.”

“Oh, to have young arteries.”

“Daddy, you’re not all that old.” She rolled her eyes. “What about you, Brett?”

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