“That isn’t what he said.”
I laughed. “I know. But it’s what he meant.”
She turned back to Nigel. “Just bring us whatever wine you recommend.”
“WhateverIrecommend?” A big smile spread across his face, jostling his fake mustache. He grabbed the mustache to keep it on. “Very good, mademoiselle. Very good indeed.” He made sure his mustache was staying in place before he turned to Felix. “And what will the random gentleman who is clearly the third wheel have?”
“Um…a scotch will be great, thanks.”
“Basic choice.” And with that Nigel turned on his heel and hurried off.
I smiled. Nigel had just brought the sick burns for me. Maybe I’d forgive him for not warning me I’d invited Felix on a romantic date tonight.
“I’m so confused,” Felix said. “Do you guys know that rude waiter?”
“Yeah, he’s a friend,” Kennedy said.
“Francois is your friend?” Nigel asked.
Kennedy jumped.
How had he gotten our drink order so quickly?
“Yeah,Francois. I do believe you are.”
He nodded. “Yes. We are friends. The best of friends. And I have brought my favorite from the wine selection. I hope it’s to your liking, friend.”
Kennedy smiled at him.
And then he pulled a machete out from behind his back and lopped the top off the bottle.
Where the hell did that come from?!
Kennedy clapped for him.
I didn’t think I’d ever seen Nigel so happy. Well, that wasn’t true. He looked like that whenever he talked about drawing me a bath. Or when he discussed fax machines. He finished pouring our drinks and turned to leave.
“Um…where’s my drink?” Felix asked.
Nigel completely ignored him and walked away.
“I’m pretty sure your friend hates me,” Felix said.
Kennedy laughed. “It just takes some time for him to warm up to people. He didn’t like me at first either. He kept throwing water in my face.”
“Are you serious?” Felix asked with a laugh.
“I swear it. And his opinion changes quite quickly. He did that to me just earlier today on the football field.”
“The football field?”
“Yeah, Matt is the head coach at Empire High. And I’m his assistant coach. Oh my gosh, Felix, you should come to the homecoming game this weekend. Matt, are there any tickets left?”
“No,” I said. “I think they’re all sold out.” They weren’t.
“Are you sure?”
I nodded.
