Chapter 4
Agent Shea Salazar called for a team lunch that day. CM rode with Ben while Gina sat in Shea's car.
"So where are we eating, boss?" Gina questioned.
"Affliction Cafe," Shea answered. "You were supposed to tell me how the food was and you never did. So we're all going."
Gina chuckled softly, "Maybe it was too good to tell you."
"You met someone," Shea noted. "It's someone at the restaurant."
Gina groaned, "It's not like I can date them. They're a recent widow."
Shea nodded. "Give it time but mostly, get to know each other. Also, communication is key to any relationship."
Gina scoffed. "I don't even have their number. I hope she isn't working today."
"She?" Shea coughed. "Well, we all learn something new each day."
"It could just be a crush," Gina sighed, looking out the window. "I've never felt this drawn to someone before, Shea. This person is really special."
Shea smiled, "Things will work out. Stay positive."
Gina shook her head, "I don't know if I can, knowing I'll be in a food coma."
/ - / - /
"It's good to be out of the office," CM grinned as he looked over the menu.
"There's a reason we don't bring you out," Gina retorted, kicking at CM's ankle bracelet.
CM rolled his eyes, "They'll deduct your pay for breaking that."
Gina stuck her tongue at him before looking over the salad section. "The tofu avocado salad sounds good."
"Are you a rabbit?" CM joked, earning a light punch from the girl.
"At least, I'll live longer than you," Gina huffed.
Shea shook her head, "Will you two settle down? You're worse than children."
Ben chuckled, "Maybe once we order, they will."
"I highly doubt it," Shea laughed as there was a sudden announcement.
"Welcome one and all to Affliction Cafe. I am Bri and I am proud to announce our impromptu show for those who are here," beamed a staff member on the stage. "These shows happen monthly and randomly and you're all so lucky to catch the first act from the owner, Elliot Beckett."
"Isn't that the person you went to check up on?" Ben questioned Gina.
Gina frowned, "Shut up."
"Thank you for the lovely intro," Elliot smiled as she walked on stage, a mic already attached to her ear, and sat at the piano. "This is Nightingale by Demi Lovato."
Heartstrings tugged at the performance and many clapped once it was over. Other staff members went on stage for their performances but it wasn't as exciting as Elliot's.
/ - / - /
"Excuse me, but can we get the bill?" Shea asked their waiter when he came by.
The waiter smiled, "It's been paid for. Compliments of the owner."
"And where can I find Elliot?" Gina smiled sweetly but was hiding her annoyance.
"The captain has left for the day," the waiter answered. "Was it urgent?"
"No," Gina replied.
"So Elliot, huh?" Shea chuckled. "Mad that she gave us a free meal?"
Gina rolled her eyes, "I don't need any favors from her. Let's go."
As they headed for the exit, a staff member stopped them. It was Diana, who Gina remembered from the first time she ate there. Diana handed Gina a slip of paper.
"The captain told me to give this to you," Diana smiled. "She's expecting an earful from you for comping the meal. Anyway, have a wonderful day."
CM nudged Gina, "Someone's trying to get your attention."
Gina hit him with her bag, "Shove off, CM."