“I really don’t want to tell him you didn’t eat. I’m sure you won’t like the results. He’s very persistent, you know.”
“Boy, do I.”
“Then come on. Four more bites. That’s all.” He scoops the fork up again, a hopeful smile crinkling his face.
“I can do it myself, you know.”
“If you could, you would have done it. Eat this one from me, then show me you can eat the rest.”
I eye the cooling mixture, watching as congealing yolk and egg drip down every few moments. Closing my eyes, I open my mouth, determined to get it over with. To his credit, Jerry doesn’t make it any more paternal than it has to be. His movements are efficient, matter of fact, as if he’s done this before.
“So, what dirt does he have on you?”
He hands me back my fork with a smile, pulling up the stool across from me to sit. It’s clear he’s not leaving until I take another three bites. “What makes you think he does?”
“Well, you work here in his sex den. So either he’s got dirt, or you share in the ladies.” I pause, looking between him and the plate. Is that why he’s here with me now? Is that what he really wants?
“And what makes you think I’m into the ladies? Sorry to disappoint you, sweetie, but I have a husband. A very satisfied husband.”
“Wait. Then why work here?”
“What do you want me to say? I’m very much active in the lifestyle, and the pay is something I can’t refuse. Eric is a trucker, so it’s nice to have a place I can call home when he’s not here. And don’t think you’re going to distract me. You owe me three more bites.”
I stab my food and shove a forkful into my mouth, mulling over his words. It seems like the only person not here willingly is me. No one else feels forced or trapped. In fact, they all seem grateful. I keep eating with Jerry, the companionable silence soothing my overwrought nerves enough for me to clean my plate.
“Good job! I’ll make sure to have a slice of cake ready for you this afternoon when you start your lessons.” He grabs my plate and shuffles off. If I had to do stupid school, then cake would certainly help sweeten the deal.