When We Kiss

Chad’s eyes briefly meet my surprised ones before he looks away. “What’s dad up to this weekend?”

“Oh, he’s at our house in Kiawah.” She shakes her head in disapproval. “Can’t get that man off the golf course. I told you we have that issue in Burlington needing attention. I suppose I’ll have to get Darren to handle it.”

“He’ll handle it fine. Darren’s been with the business since I was in high school.” Chad returns to me. “Sorry, my parents own some shipping companies—”

“Logistics.” His mother corrects him.

“Sorry, my family is in logistics. My father insists we use the correct terminology.” His smile is already exhausted, and I really want to slip my hand in his.

I’m kind of starting to understand why Chad wanted to move to Oceanside. He left his overbearing relatives in Charleston. Sadly, mine are right here hanging over me—or one of them, at least.

“Here you go.” Kyle is back, handing out the drinks. “And are we ready to order?”

“I haven’t even looked at this. Charles, would you mind ordering for me?” His mother hands him her folded menu.

“I can help if you want.” I lean forward, smiling. “I used to work here… a couple years ago.”

I realize my error as the words leave my mouth.

“Is that so?” His mother gives me a look I know means trouble. “Were you the manager?”

“Um, no.” I shift in my seat wishing I’d never opened my mouth. “I was a waitress.”

“Ah.” She smiles, but I know a fake smile when I see it. “A waitress.”

The way she says it, you’d think I was a hooker.

Her eyes go to her son, but Chad looks at the menu instead. “What do you suggest, Tabby?”

I look down and give my best opinion based on two years ago. “Well, their blue crab bisque is delicious for a start, and as a main course, you can’t go wrong with the surf and turf. They serve it with grilled shrimp. Or if you don’t want a steak, you would probably love the crab claws du jour. They’re usually grilled and served with a light butter sauce and blanched asparagus.”

His mother turns to me with her eyebrows raised. “Sounds like you were very good at your job.”

She’s being condescending, and I shrug, flipping my menu closed. “It paid the bills.”

“That all sounds great.” Chad, by contrast, is not being condescending. He returns my smile, and it calms my stomach a bit. “I’ll have the surf and turf. Mom, you want the crab claws?”

“Whatever you think dear.” She pats his hand, and I barf a little in my mouth.

He moves his hand away, taking her menu and handing both to the waiter. Then he looks at me with something like an apology in his expression. I’m wondering why he invited me tonight. His mom’s a judgy bitch. He should’ve known she’d hate me. I guess he needed a buffer?

“I’ll have the bisque to start and a crab salad.” Kyle makes a note.

“A bottle of sauvignon blanc for the table.” Chad adds at the last minute.

More alcohol might not be a good idea. I’m still working on my martini, doing my best not to slug it.

“How did—” Chad starts, but his mother’s laser eyes are on me again.

She interrupts. “So Tabitha, who are your people?”

My martini is halfway to my lips. “My people?” I take a quick sip as I try to figure out how in the world to answer that question. “I’m not really sure.”

“Tabby’s uncle is the Reverend Green. He’s pastor of the church in Oceanside.”

“Her uncle? And what about your mother and father? Let her speak, Charles.”

While the marti