Page 115 of The Demon's Fire
The waiter appeared alongside Winston.
“We would like a bottle of the Domaine Leflaive Puligny-Montrachet Les Folatières.”
Skyler smiled at the waiter but held up her hand to stop him. “I’d like a beer.”
“No one orders beer here.” Winston looked to the man as if expecting support.
The waiter said, “Actually, sir, they do.”
The doctor’s sharp frown settled on the waiter.
Skyler ignored Winston. “Thanks. I’ll have Bud. On tap, if you have it.”
“We do. That’s one Bud and a bottle of the Puligny-Montrachet.” The waiter gave a polite bow, no smile.
Winston nodded a curt dismissal. “What’s with the peasant drink? You’ve never ordered a beer. You’re being strange, Skyler. I’m not sure I like it.”
Skyler raised an eyebrow as she glanced at the menu. “I don’t need your approval. Now, what do I want for dinner?”
They studied the menu in silence for some ten minutes.
“I think we’ll order the stuffed sole in apâte briséefor two. A walnut and goat cheese salad and a side of broccoli gratin will go nicely.” Winston snapped his menu closed.
“Sounds good, but I feel like red meat. I’m considering the steak Diane.”
“You rarely order steak, Skyler.”
“Actually, Winston, you usually insist on fish for us. I love steak.”
“But I assumed you preferred fish, which is much healthier for you.”
“I do like fish, but I like steak, too.”
“Well, I think you will like this fish better.”
“No. Steak Diane.”
“If you insist, but you’ll be sorry.”
“I can handle that.”
Winston scowled when he gave their order to the waiter, who glanced at Skyler. “The steak Diane is wonderful tonight, miss.”
Skyler smiled. She was so tired of being at the mercy of her childhood. Her journey had to start with a single step. She asked, “You’ve been here for a couple of years, haven’t you?”
“Yes. Manfredo is my uncle.”
Taking a quick look at the owner, Skyler nodded. “I see the resemblance. Do other family members work here?”
“My sister, Amelia, over there.” He pointed toward an attractive brunette.
“She’s charming. And what’s your name?”
“Anthony.”
“Nice to know your name, Anthony. I’m Skyler and my friend is Winston.”
Anthony lightly touched Skyler’s fingers, raised them to his lips, and kissed them softly. “I am pleased to know the name of such a lovely lady.”
