Summerset, page 2
I smile and walk back to the floor. I remember we had someone walk in. I scan the floor and there is only one person I haven’t served. It’s Chris, the guy from last night. What are the odds?
“Good morning sir, I am Sammy. I will be serving you today. Can I start you with something to drink?” Our eyes meet.
“Good morning. I didn’t expect you to be here. How many jobs do you have?” He asks smiling.
“I have two right now sir.”
“Please call me Chris.”
“Ok Chris, can I get you a cup of coffee or tea?”
“Coffee will be great.”
“We are a little busy. Look at menu and by the time I come back I will take your order.” He scans the room.
“Busy is an understatement.” He smiles.
His smile is infectious. He is so inviting. I go and check on Georgia, she seems to be doing ok. I go to the kitchen and check on John.
“You owe me Sammy.” I hear Donny yell. I walk to the kitchen.
“You are a lifesaver. I promise to repay you. Maybe John can cook some meals for you too.” I laugh.
“Dream on.” He teases. “Table three, five and six’s orders should be ready in two minutes.”
“Plenty of time. I am going to refill drinks.”
I walk to the coffee pots. There is only one and a half pot. I make a note to come back and make more. I grab a cup and walk to Chris’s table. I set the cup down and start pouring.
“Any room for cream?”
“No thank you.”
“Did you decide what you would like to eat?”
“Pancakes and bacon.”
“Ok.” I say getting ready to leave.
“Sammy,” he says.
“Yes?” I ask. There is a pause. He looks at me but says nothing.
“Any recommendations for the syrup?” He finally asks.
“I guess it depends on what you like. If you like syrup, our maple grade B is good. If you like jam, the peach or huckleberry are great.”
“Surprise me.” He smiles.
There is that smile again. I walk back to the counter and drop the coffee pot. I walk around helping the busboy clean a little while I wait on the food. Today he is slow, but I can’t blame him. It’s been a busy day. I walk to the kitchen Chris’ food is ready. I grab the huckleberry jam. Georgia makes it and it goes great with pancakes.
“Sammy,” I hear Donny call.
“Yes?” I ask.
“John has it under control. I am going home to sleep. You better bring me dinner at the bar tonight.”
“Of course.” I smile.
I am working at the bar tonight. Everyone has been working all week because of the pre festival. I am looking forward for the end ceremonies in two weeks. As much as it’s nice with the tips the crowd is just not that pleasant.
“Here you go. I love pancakes with the huckleberry jam. Georgia makes it from scratch.”
“Thank you.”
“Did you need anything else? Maybe more coffee?”
“Some water will be great.”
“Coming right up.”
“How’s your hand?”
Instinctively I flex my hand. I’ve been so busy I haven’t thought about the pain. “I am fine. Sometimes people deserve to be put in their place.”
“I couldn’t agree more. You can take care of yourself.”
“Thanks.” I say because is the only thing I can think of. I walk to the counter and grab a pitcher of water.
“Sammy, thanks for all your help. I know you should have left an hour ago.” Georgia tells me.
I look at my watch. The morning has gotten away from me. I almost forgot. Today I am supposed to take dad to court. He has a disorderly case against him. I know the judge is going to arrest him if he doesn’t show.
“Shoot, I forgot. I have two tables left. Do you mind finishing them up for me? I will take them their checks.”
“Of course, sweetheart. You worry too much about everyone. I hope your father appreciates you.”
“Thanks Georgia.” I smile.
Everyone in town knows dad. He and mom were born and raised here. When mom died it was hard on everyone. She was an amazing woman. At least is what I hear. I don’t remember much of her. I take my receipt book and calculate the math for the checks. I drop the check for the first table. They were getting ready to leave. They pay in cash and tell me to keep the change. I walk to Chris’ table with the pitcher of water. I fill his cup. He seems to be half way through his pancakes.
“Hey, no rush but I am leaving you the check. If you want anything else just ask them to add it.”
“You are leaving me?” He asks teasing.
“My shift’s over. Always a pleasure.” I smile.
It’s nice talking with Chris. I feel like I know him for a long time. Even though we just met last night. I feel comfort talking with him. I shake my head. These are not the kind of distractions I can afford right now. I drop everything at the counter including my apron. I take whatever tips I have. I tell Georgia if she needs anything to call. I say goodbye and leave. I speed walk home. I want to take a quick shower, see if dad has eaten and showered. Fifteen minutes later I am walking through the door.
“Dad,” I call out.
“In the kitchen.”
At least his up. I walk in and he has showered. “Are you ready?”
“I am not the child Samantha.” He says. It lets me know he has at least drunk his first beer.
“I know dad. I didn’t think you wanted to go alone to court. I am going to take a quick shower and we can go. You have to be there within the hour.” I walk away before he can add anything.
I quickly call Donny asking to borrow his truck. He tells me he assumed. He left the keys in my mailbox. It’s amazing how well he knows me. I take a shower in under ten minutes. I wear a skirt and a blouse. I pull my hair in a ponytail. I make my way downstairs. Dad is sitting at the kitchen table.
“Ready dad?” I ask.
“Hold your horses. I am finishing my drink.”
The judge is not going to like this. After five minutes, I am still standing by the kitchen.
“Let’s go.” He says.
I walk to the living room and grab my purse. I take out mints. My intentions to give him one, try and cover the scent of the beer.
“Dad, Donny is lending me his truck. I am going to turn it on. I’ll see you outside.”
I open the mailbox and retrieve the keys. Donny is an all-American man. He drives a two thousand and seven blue Chevrolet pickup truck. It’s his pride and joy. He bought it used but treats like it’s a two thousand and twenty. After a few minutes’ dad comes out. He gets in.
“Ready?” I ask.
“I have a headache.” He says.
Hopefully this will be quick. I offer dad mints but he refuses. I hope he will be more cooperative when we get to court. The court is only a ten-minute drive. We both get out the car. Dad is in foul mood. He didn’t say anything during the drive over.
“We are in room B.” I say to him.
“Morning Sammy,” says the guard upfront. He is a regular at The Shack.
“Morning Bob.” I smile.
“Do you know the whole damn town? Why you come with me anyway? This ain’t my first rodeo.” Dad says.
“Dad please. Let’s just get through this and you can go back home.” I say quietly.
We don’t have to wait long. The judge gives him a fine and another warning. He tells dad if he is arrested again, he will have no choice but to send him to the county jail for thirty days. I don’t know if I should be happy or concerned. We leave the courtroom. I take the fine from dad so that I can pay it. Its two hundred dollars. Essentially all the tips I have raised so far this week. I take a deep breath and tell dad to wait by the truck. A few minutes later I walk out. Dad is leaning against the truck. He looks angry.
“Take me to Ray’s.”
“Dad, don’t you think is early?”
“I am a grown man Samantha. Take me to Ray’s or I s’wanee I’ll walk.”
I know there isn’t anything I can say to change his mind. Reluctantly I drive to Ray’s. Ray is his friend from childhood. He owns the old schooler bar. The only people who go there are retired or want to be left alone. Our drive is awkward. Dad refuses to look at me.
“Do you want me to bring some dinner?” I ask as I pull up.
“No.” He says getting out the car.
I want to say something but I don’t want to argue. I take a deep breath and drive home. My shift at The Shack doesn’t start for another two hours. It gives me enough time to make dinner. I quickly stop at the market and get a few things. I get home to Donny sitting on the porch.
“Took you long enough.” He says smiling. He walks over and takes the groceries from me.
“Thanks.” I say.
“How did it go?” He asks.
“As good as it can be. He was drinking already when I got home. He was lucky. The judge gave him a fine and another warning. Jail if it happens again.”
“Tell me you didn’t pay the fine?” He looks at me.
“What was I supposed to do? He is still my dad.” I say as we enter the kitchen.
“I don’t know why you put up with him. If I had my druthers I would had let him rot in jail.”
“I need to take care of him. All he has is me. Now, if you want dinner, I have to start cooking.” I say smiling trying to change the conversation. I love Donny but he doesn’t understand that dad needs me. He can’t help himself when he drinks.
“Yes ma’am.” He says making us laugh.
I decide to make a very southern dish, potatoes, green fried tomatoes and fried chicken. Its dad’s favorite. I am going to make a plate and drop it at Ray’s. It’s on the way to The Shack. Donny puts on the radio and Carrie Underwood is playing. I can’t help myself and start singing.
“I love when you sing. You have such a beautiful voice.”
“Not at all.” I throw flour at him.
“You didn’t.” He says.
Before I know it, he is throwing flour at me. We do it a few more times before I scream uncle. We eat dinner and clean up. I ask Donny for a ride since I want to drop a plate for dad and Ray. I am sure neither of them has eaten. When we are done cleaning Donny leaves to get ready. I do the same.
I go upstairs and take a shower. The weather is supposed to be nicer tonight. I choose to wear shorts and my favorite cowboy boots. I wear a white t-shirt with the intentions of changing into The Shack’s shirt at work. I am basic. I redo my ponytail. I don’t like makeup. I put on a little mascara and lip gloss. I still have to look like I am trying to get good tips. Besides most of the other waitresses put enough makeup for the entire town. After twenty minutes, I am ready. I walk to the kitchen grab the two plates, turn the lights off and walk out. Donny is leaning against his truck looking at his phone.
“Finally.” He says sarcastically.
“You could have called.”
“I am kidding. I just came outside. Are you going to be long at Ray’s?”
“No, I am just going to take it in and walk out.”
“Ok.”
We get to Ray’s. I hop out of the truck with the plates. I walk in, there are only four people, two which are dad and Ray. I set both plates on the bar. Dad mumbles something but Ray says he loves when I bring food. I tell Ray to keep an eye on him and call if there is trouble. I walk out and Donny is rocking to whatever music he is listening to. I can’t really tell since the windows are up. I climb in. He is listening to Brad Paisley. I should have known.
“Ready?” I ask.
“Yes. Are you?” He asks teasing.
“Drive already.” I lightly punch his arm. When we get to the parking lot of The Shack is plenty full.
“It’s only five.” I say.
“It’s going to be a long night.” He laughs.
“I know. I am closing.” I shake my head.
Sammy
I’ve been at work for three hours and it’s only getting crazier. We had to call in two additional waitresses. It’s been non-stop busy. We are having a live band tonight. Even though it’s just a local band everyone is looking forward to listening to them. I am not sure which band since the town has few. But it doesn’t matter. Live music means more tips.
“Sammy,” one of the waitresses calls out.
“Yes?”
“Table five wants another pitcher.”
“Thanks.” I walk to the bar. “Donny, two pitchers.” I yell.
“Coming right up.” He is slammed. It takes him five minutes before he gives me the pitchers. “I am sorry. The part time bartender is late. Not a good start.” He laughs.
“Let me drop these. I will come help. At least so you aren’t drowning.” I smile.
I drop the pitchers to their respective tables. I check on the rest of my tables. Everyone else seems to be ok. I take the opportunity to help Donny. We work well together. We serve ten people in five minutes. Shortly after the part time bartender comes in.
“Sorry I am late. Overslept.”
“If ifs and buts were candy and nuts, it would be Christmas every day. Next time don’t bother coming in.” Donny says.
“Be nice. He is young.” I whisper to Donny.
“I am sorry sir.”
“I am not sir. My name is Donny. Get to work.” The guy apologizes a few more times.
“You shouldn’t be hard on him. You were the same way.” I tease.
“And someone did to me what I am doing to him. It’s the only way he is going to learn.”
“If you say so.”
I leave the bar to check on my tables. Everyone is still good. A few ordered appetizers. Hopefully the kitchen is staffed tonight. We don’t need a riot. Another hour goes by. I look at my watch. It’s almost ten and the band still hasn’t started playing. People are getting rowdy.
“Sammy,” I hear someone call. I turn to see the manager.
“What’s wrong?” I ask. He only comes to me when something is wrong.
“The band can’t play because their lead singer is not here. The crowd is getting restless.”
“What would you like me to do?” As I ask the question it dawns on me what he is not saying. “Oh no, I am not singing.”
“You are our only hope, please.” He begs.
“Why does everyone think I can bail them out?”
“I’ll pay you double tonight.”
“You have yourself a deal.”
I can’t never say no to money. I don’t like singing in public. But after paying dad’s fine I can use the money. Besides our locals have heard me sing before and the visitors won’t be here long enough to care. I walk to the bar.
“I am sorry.” Donny says before I can say anything.
“You didn’t.”
“He is desperate. I feel bad for the man.” He laughs.
“Well I don’t. Who is the band any who?”
“It’s Vince.” He answers quietly.
Not what I wanted to hear. Out of all the local bands they had to choose Vince’s band. He is my ex and we haven’t talked since our breakup last month. I used to sing with his band all the time when his lead singer would bail.
“Where are they?”
“The back.”
I take my apron off and throw it at Donny. He laughs. He tells me the manager is covering my tables until I am back on the floor. Hopefully it won’t hurt my tips because he is horrible. I walk to the back. Vince is talking to one of the new waitresses. His band is sitting around. His lead singer is one of the reasons we broke up. I take a deep breath and walk to them.
“Sammy,” his base yells out.
“Hi.” I say walking up.
“It’s been a long time. Come here give me a hug.”
He pulls me in for a hug. Vince turns around and leaves the poor waitress with words in her mouth. Some things never change.
“Well look it here. If it isn’t Sammy.” He is a joke. What possessed me to be with him is besides me. He is once a man, twice a child.
“Hello Vince. Somethings don’t change. I hear your lead singer is not here.”
“Yes, she is running late. You know how business is.” I roll my eyes.
“The manager wants you to start playing. The crowd is getting restless.”
“We can’t go without a lead.” He says.
“Sammy can cover. It wouldn’t the first time.” Says the base guy.
“We are fine waiting.” Vince says.
“If you want to get pay for the gig you have to start playing Vince. This is not Nashville.” I say sarcastically. “I can do one set. It will calm the crowd and the manager. It will give your lead singer time to come. If she shows up.”
“She has a point Vince.” The base guy adds.
“Fine. Do you remember the songs?”
“I should. I wrote them.” I say annoyed. “Let’s do lovers, the road and tonight is the night.” I say not letting him speak.
“Always the boss.” He says.
They walk out and start setting up. I go and check on the mics. It takes about ten minutes. Vince walks over to me.
“You look good Sammy. I've missed you.”
“I am sure you have.” I say sarcastically. “Let’s get through this. Nothing has changed.” I feel inclined to add.
“Same all Sammy.”
He gets on stage. I can’t deny he is handsome, but it isn’t enough. Looks can only get you so far. He wanted to be on the road and groupies were becoming an issue. He loved the life more than having something real with me. I couldn’t throw my life away. He ain’t worth two cents.
“Welcome Summerset.” He says to the crowd. The crowd is going crazy. Charisma is his middle name. “Thank you for being patient. I promise the wait was worth it. For tonight and tonight only Sammy will join us on stage.”
Everyone who knows me is screaming. It makes me wonder when was the last time I sang with the band. It's been at least six months. It was before his last tour.
“Ladies and gentlemen, Sammy.” He says introducing me. I give him a dirty look while he is all smiles.
“Good morning sir, I am Sammy. I will be serving you today. Can I start you with something to drink?” Our eyes meet.
“Good morning. I didn’t expect you to be here. How many jobs do you have?” He asks smiling.
“I have two right now sir.”
“Please call me Chris.”
“Ok Chris, can I get you a cup of coffee or tea?”
“Coffee will be great.”
“We are a little busy. Look at menu and by the time I come back I will take your order.” He scans the room.
“Busy is an understatement.” He smiles.
His smile is infectious. He is so inviting. I go and check on Georgia, she seems to be doing ok. I go to the kitchen and check on John.
“You owe me Sammy.” I hear Donny yell. I walk to the kitchen.
“You are a lifesaver. I promise to repay you. Maybe John can cook some meals for you too.” I laugh.
“Dream on.” He teases. “Table three, five and six’s orders should be ready in two minutes.”
“Plenty of time. I am going to refill drinks.”
I walk to the coffee pots. There is only one and a half pot. I make a note to come back and make more. I grab a cup and walk to Chris’s table. I set the cup down and start pouring.
“Any room for cream?”
“No thank you.”
“Did you decide what you would like to eat?”
“Pancakes and bacon.”
“Ok.” I say getting ready to leave.
“Sammy,” he says.
“Yes?” I ask. There is a pause. He looks at me but says nothing.
“Any recommendations for the syrup?” He finally asks.
“I guess it depends on what you like. If you like syrup, our maple grade B is good. If you like jam, the peach or huckleberry are great.”
“Surprise me.” He smiles.
There is that smile again. I walk back to the counter and drop the coffee pot. I walk around helping the busboy clean a little while I wait on the food. Today he is slow, but I can’t blame him. It’s been a busy day. I walk to the kitchen Chris’ food is ready. I grab the huckleberry jam. Georgia makes it and it goes great with pancakes.
“Sammy,” I hear Donny call.
“Yes?” I ask.
“John has it under control. I am going home to sleep. You better bring me dinner at the bar tonight.”
“Of course.” I smile.
I am working at the bar tonight. Everyone has been working all week because of the pre festival. I am looking forward for the end ceremonies in two weeks. As much as it’s nice with the tips the crowd is just not that pleasant.
“Here you go. I love pancakes with the huckleberry jam. Georgia makes it from scratch.”
“Thank you.”
“Did you need anything else? Maybe more coffee?”
“Some water will be great.”
“Coming right up.”
“How’s your hand?”
Instinctively I flex my hand. I’ve been so busy I haven’t thought about the pain. “I am fine. Sometimes people deserve to be put in their place.”
“I couldn’t agree more. You can take care of yourself.”
“Thanks.” I say because is the only thing I can think of. I walk to the counter and grab a pitcher of water.
“Sammy, thanks for all your help. I know you should have left an hour ago.” Georgia tells me.
I look at my watch. The morning has gotten away from me. I almost forgot. Today I am supposed to take dad to court. He has a disorderly case against him. I know the judge is going to arrest him if he doesn’t show.
“Shoot, I forgot. I have two tables left. Do you mind finishing them up for me? I will take them their checks.”
“Of course, sweetheart. You worry too much about everyone. I hope your father appreciates you.”
“Thanks Georgia.” I smile.
Everyone in town knows dad. He and mom were born and raised here. When mom died it was hard on everyone. She was an amazing woman. At least is what I hear. I don’t remember much of her. I take my receipt book and calculate the math for the checks. I drop the check for the first table. They were getting ready to leave. They pay in cash and tell me to keep the change. I walk to Chris’ table with the pitcher of water. I fill his cup. He seems to be half way through his pancakes.
“Hey, no rush but I am leaving you the check. If you want anything else just ask them to add it.”
“You are leaving me?” He asks teasing.
“My shift’s over. Always a pleasure.” I smile.
It’s nice talking with Chris. I feel like I know him for a long time. Even though we just met last night. I feel comfort talking with him. I shake my head. These are not the kind of distractions I can afford right now. I drop everything at the counter including my apron. I take whatever tips I have. I tell Georgia if she needs anything to call. I say goodbye and leave. I speed walk home. I want to take a quick shower, see if dad has eaten and showered. Fifteen minutes later I am walking through the door.
“Dad,” I call out.
“In the kitchen.”
At least his up. I walk in and he has showered. “Are you ready?”
“I am not the child Samantha.” He says. It lets me know he has at least drunk his first beer.
“I know dad. I didn’t think you wanted to go alone to court. I am going to take a quick shower and we can go. You have to be there within the hour.” I walk away before he can add anything.
I quickly call Donny asking to borrow his truck. He tells me he assumed. He left the keys in my mailbox. It’s amazing how well he knows me. I take a shower in under ten minutes. I wear a skirt and a blouse. I pull my hair in a ponytail. I make my way downstairs. Dad is sitting at the kitchen table.
“Ready dad?” I ask.
“Hold your horses. I am finishing my drink.”
The judge is not going to like this. After five minutes, I am still standing by the kitchen.
“Let’s go.” He says.
I walk to the living room and grab my purse. I take out mints. My intentions to give him one, try and cover the scent of the beer.
“Dad, Donny is lending me his truck. I am going to turn it on. I’ll see you outside.”
I open the mailbox and retrieve the keys. Donny is an all-American man. He drives a two thousand and seven blue Chevrolet pickup truck. It’s his pride and joy. He bought it used but treats like it’s a two thousand and twenty. After a few minutes’ dad comes out. He gets in.
“Ready?” I ask.
“I have a headache.” He says.
Hopefully this will be quick. I offer dad mints but he refuses. I hope he will be more cooperative when we get to court. The court is only a ten-minute drive. We both get out the car. Dad is in foul mood. He didn’t say anything during the drive over.
“We are in room B.” I say to him.
“Morning Sammy,” says the guard upfront. He is a regular at The Shack.
“Morning Bob.” I smile.
“Do you know the whole damn town? Why you come with me anyway? This ain’t my first rodeo.” Dad says.
“Dad please. Let’s just get through this and you can go back home.” I say quietly.
We don’t have to wait long. The judge gives him a fine and another warning. He tells dad if he is arrested again, he will have no choice but to send him to the county jail for thirty days. I don’t know if I should be happy or concerned. We leave the courtroom. I take the fine from dad so that I can pay it. Its two hundred dollars. Essentially all the tips I have raised so far this week. I take a deep breath and tell dad to wait by the truck. A few minutes later I walk out. Dad is leaning against the truck. He looks angry.
“Take me to Ray’s.”
“Dad, don’t you think is early?”
“I am a grown man Samantha. Take me to Ray’s or I s’wanee I’ll walk.”
I know there isn’t anything I can say to change his mind. Reluctantly I drive to Ray’s. Ray is his friend from childhood. He owns the old schooler bar. The only people who go there are retired or want to be left alone. Our drive is awkward. Dad refuses to look at me.
“Do you want me to bring some dinner?” I ask as I pull up.
“No.” He says getting out the car.
I want to say something but I don’t want to argue. I take a deep breath and drive home. My shift at The Shack doesn’t start for another two hours. It gives me enough time to make dinner. I quickly stop at the market and get a few things. I get home to Donny sitting on the porch.
“Took you long enough.” He says smiling. He walks over and takes the groceries from me.
“Thanks.” I say.
“How did it go?” He asks.
“As good as it can be. He was drinking already when I got home. He was lucky. The judge gave him a fine and another warning. Jail if it happens again.”
“Tell me you didn’t pay the fine?” He looks at me.
“What was I supposed to do? He is still my dad.” I say as we enter the kitchen.
“I don’t know why you put up with him. If I had my druthers I would had let him rot in jail.”
“I need to take care of him. All he has is me. Now, if you want dinner, I have to start cooking.” I say smiling trying to change the conversation. I love Donny but he doesn’t understand that dad needs me. He can’t help himself when he drinks.
“Yes ma’am.” He says making us laugh.
I decide to make a very southern dish, potatoes, green fried tomatoes and fried chicken. Its dad’s favorite. I am going to make a plate and drop it at Ray’s. It’s on the way to The Shack. Donny puts on the radio and Carrie Underwood is playing. I can’t help myself and start singing.
“I love when you sing. You have such a beautiful voice.”
“Not at all.” I throw flour at him.
“You didn’t.” He says.
Before I know it, he is throwing flour at me. We do it a few more times before I scream uncle. We eat dinner and clean up. I ask Donny for a ride since I want to drop a plate for dad and Ray. I am sure neither of them has eaten. When we are done cleaning Donny leaves to get ready. I do the same.
I go upstairs and take a shower. The weather is supposed to be nicer tonight. I choose to wear shorts and my favorite cowboy boots. I wear a white t-shirt with the intentions of changing into The Shack’s shirt at work. I am basic. I redo my ponytail. I don’t like makeup. I put on a little mascara and lip gloss. I still have to look like I am trying to get good tips. Besides most of the other waitresses put enough makeup for the entire town. After twenty minutes, I am ready. I walk to the kitchen grab the two plates, turn the lights off and walk out. Donny is leaning against his truck looking at his phone.
“Finally.” He says sarcastically.
“You could have called.”
“I am kidding. I just came outside. Are you going to be long at Ray’s?”
“No, I am just going to take it in and walk out.”
“Ok.”
We get to Ray’s. I hop out of the truck with the plates. I walk in, there are only four people, two which are dad and Ray. I set both plates on the bar. Dad mumbles something but Ray says he loves when I bring food. I tell Ray to keep an eye on him and call if there is trouble. I walk out and Donny is rocking to whatever music he is listening to. I can’t really tell since the windows are up. I climb in. He is listening to Brad Paisley. I should have known.
“Ready?” I ask.
“Yes. Are you?” He asks teasing.
“Drive already.” I lightly punch his arm. When we get to the parking lot of The Shack is plenty full.
“It’s only five.” I say.
“It’s going to be a long night.” He laughs.
“I know. I am closing.” I shake my head.
Sammy
I’ve been at work for three hours and it’s only getting crazier. We had to call in two additional waitresses. It’s been non-stop busy. We are having a live band tonight. Even though it’s just a local band everyone is looking forward to listening to them. I am not sure which band since the town has few. But it doesn’t matter. Live music means more tips.
“Sammy,” one of the waitresses calls out.
“Yes?”
“Table five wants another pitcher.”
“Thanks.” I walk to the bar. “Donny, two pitchers.” I yell.
“Coming right up.” He is slammed. It takes him five minutes before he gives me the pitchers. “I am sorry. The part time bartender is late. Not a good start.” He laughs.
“Let me drop these. I will come help. At least so you aren’t drowning.” I smile.
I drop the pitchers to their respective tables. I check on the rest of my tables. Everyone else seems to be ok. I take the opportunity to help Donny. We work well together. We serve ten people in five minutes. Shortly after the part time bartender comes in.
“Sorry I am late. Overslept.”
“If ifs and buts were candy and nuts, it would be Christmas every day. Next time don’t bother coming in.” Donny says.
“Be nice. He is young.” I whisper to Donny.
“I am sorry sir.”
“I am not sir. My name is Donny. Get to work.” The guy apologizes a few more times.
“You shouldn’t be hard on him. You were the same way.” I tease.
“And someone did to me what I am doing to him. It’s the only way he is going to learn.”
“If you say so.”
I leave the bar to check on my tables. Everyone is still good. A few ordered appetizers. Hopefully the kitchen is staffed tonight. We don’t need a riot. Another hour goes by. I look at my watch. It’s almost ten and the band still hasn’t started playing. People are getting rowdy.
“Sammy,” I hear someone call. I turn to see the manager.
“What’s wrong?” I ask. He only comes to me when something is wrong.
“The band can’t play because their lead singer is not here. The crowd is getting restless.”
“What would you like me to do?” As I ask the question it dawns on me what he is not saying. “Oh no, I am not singing.”
“You are our only hope, please.” He begs.
“Why does everyone think I can bail them out?”
“I’ll pay you double tonight.”
“You have yourself a deal.”
I can’t never say no to money. I don’t like singing in public. But after paying dad’s fine I can use the money. Besides our locals have heard me sing before and the visitors won’t be here long enough to care. I walk to the bar.
“I am sorry.” Donny says before I can say anything.
“You didn’t.”
“He is desperate. I feel bad for the man.” He laughs.
“Well I don’t. Who is the band any who?”
“It’s Vince.” He answers quietly.
Not what I wanted to hear. Out of all the local bands they had to choose Vince’s band. He is my ex and we haven’t talked since our breakup last month. I used to sing with his band all the time when his lead singer would bail.
“Where are they?”
“The back.”
I take my apron off and throw it at Donny. He laughs. He tells me the manager is covering my tables until I am back on the floor. Hopefully it won’t hurt my tips because he is horrible. I walk to the back. Vince is talking to one of the new waitresses. His band is sitting around. His lead singer is one of the reasons we broke up. I take a deep breath and walk to them.
“Sammy,” his base yells out.
“Hi.” I say walking up.
“It’s been a long time. Come here give me a hug.”
He pulls me in for a hug. Vince turns around and leaves the poor waitress with words in her mouth. Some things never change.
“Well look it here. If it isn’t Sammy.” He is a joke. What possessed me to be with him is besides me. He is once a man, twice a child.
“Hello Vince. Somethings don’t change. I hear your lead singer is not here.”
“Yes, she is running late. You know how business is.” I roll my eyes.
“The manager wants you to start playing. The crowd is getting restless.”
“We can’t go without a lead.” He says.
“Sammy can cover. It wouldn’t the first time.” Says the base guy.
“We are fine waiting.” Vince says.
“If you want to get pay for the gig you have to start playing Vince. This is not Nashville.” I say sarcastically. “I can do one set. It will calm the crowd and the manager. It will give your lead singer time to come. If she shows up.”
“She has a point Vince.” The base guy adds.
“Fine. Do you remember the songs?”
“I should. I wrote them.” I say annoyed. “Let’s do lovers, the road and tonight is the night.” I say not letting him speak.
“Always the boss.” He says.
They walk out and start setting up. I go and check on the mics. It takes about ten minutes. Vince walks over to me.
“You look good Sammy. I've missed you.”
“I am sure you have.” I say sarcastically. “Let’s get through this. Nothing has changed.” I feel inclined to add.
“Same all Sammy.”
He gets on stage. I can’t deny he is handsome, but it isn’t enough. Looks can only get you so far. He wanted to be on the road and groupies were becoming an issue. He loved the life more than having something real with me. I couldn’t throw my life away. He ain’t worth two cents.
“Welcome Summerset.” He says to the crowd. The crowd is going crazy. Charisma is his middle name. “Thank you for being patient. I promise the wait was worth it. For tonight and tonight only Sammy will join us on stage.”
Everyone who knows me is screaming. It makes me wonder when was the last time I sang with the band. It's been at least six months. It was before his last tour.
“Ladies and gentlemen, Sammy.” He says introducing me. I give him a dirty look while he is all smiles.
