I was answering an email at the counter when Ben came in before sunset. Olive was doing homework at the table.
“What time’s dinner?”
“Seven.”
“I can help. What should I chop?”
Then His Phone Buzzed
And my stomach tightened before I could do anything about it.
That reflex doesn’t leave. Two years later I still feel it when his phone goes off after five.
He read the message. He typed a reply. He put the phone face-down on the counter.
“What was it?”
“They wanted me to cover Friday.”
“And?”
“I said no.”
No Speech Followed
That’s the part.
He didn’t explain it. He didn’t make a point of it or wait for me to notice. He picked up a knife and asked me again what he should chop.
Then My Phone Buzzed
A client. An event on that same Friday, short notice, good money.
