I told Kevin about my book deal, which made him shake his head in disbelief. “You’ve got the touch, buddy, congrats, man,” he replied as he shook my hand. “Thanks, but now I’m worried what people are really going to think of me.” “They’re going to think there’s hope, so don’t worry about it, Scragg.” “It’s going to be weird seeing my words in print.” “Is it weird to hear your songs on the radio?” “Kinda.” “You’ll get used to it.” “I hope I never to familiar with it,” I replied.
Tara came bopping in wearing a smile. “How’s it going, young lady,” I asked. “Great, I had a super weekend, so I’m ready for the week,” Little Mama replied. “You like Liam’s parents?” “Yeah, they’re great, and I think we’re going to be real close.” “That’s terrific.” “I’m no longer Tara Moreland.”
Oh boy.
“What,” I asked. “I’m now Tara O’Brien,” Little Mama erupted in joy. “We got married yesterday, so I’m now a wife.” “Well, I guess congratulations are in order,” I said. “We thought about this a couple weeks ago, so we just decided to do it while we were up there. His parents approved, as did mine. Liam’s father told him that his life has changed forever and to take care of me and his children. I told his parents that they can expect more kids and that I’ll take care of their son. We’re going to go somewhere when it’s convenient for the both of us.” “So you didn’t opt for a wedding,” Kevin asked. “Nah, we’re married now and that’s all I care about. I know it’s going to be a big adjustment, but I’m so ready to do this.” “That’s great, Tara, and if you’re happy, I’m happy for you,” my partner said. “Thanks, Kev.”
I told Tara about Doris and Stella, and she seemed a little wary of them. “I’m not going anywhere, yet,” she replied. “I know, but you’re not going to be here for the long haul, either,” I replied. “You’ll always have a job with us as long as you want it, but I know that this isn’t in your plans, so we’re setting it up for the long run. I closed a book deal yesterday, so I’m going to need you to promote that on my site and help out with the albums. This is a job for someone without young children, and you know it.” “That’s great about the book deal, Elmer, and I know you’re right, but I always want to be part of this,” Tara replied. “You will, Tara, because I’ve determined that there’s no getting rid of you,” Kevin replied. Little Mama gave him a nasty look, but smiled when he gave it back. “I’ll be here when Blake has her baby, which will help, Elmer. I guess Doris and Stella need no training,” Tara asked. “None, in fact, they’re incredible workers,” I replied. “That’s good,” the new wife replied.
We got the day started when ten workmen came in. Gabby and Tara took their orders while Milt and Rory cooked like seasoned pros. Kevin and I marveled how well our crew functions as a unit. “They could get by without us,” my partner commented. “Easily,” I replied. “And that was your plan all along,” he asked. “Yep, everyone here can manage this restaurant, and when Doris starts fulltime, it’s really going to fly.” “I’m going to hit the grill,” Kevin said. “Yeah, why don’t you fuck up the works,” I replied. “Asshole,” my partner said as he relieved a reluctant Milt.
I stepped outside and the old ax man joined me. “We got this, Scragg,” he said. “I know,” I replied. “I can manage this place,” he continued. “I know.” “Let me manage it, then,” he asked. “And what do we do,” I asked. “Why don’t you guys take a break.” “I took one yesterday, Milt.” “I need to know I can run this place, Scragg.” “Are you sure you can.” “Yes, I’m positive.”
Milt is finally ready to take control.
“Okay, run it, you know what to do,” I replied. “I know one of you are always going to be here, but I can do this, which is why you hired me,” the old ax man said. “You want Kevin out of your way,” I replied. “Yeah, he can make smoothies and piddle around,” Milt replied. “Okay, I think my partner will take a drive.” “Good, I’ll see you a little later, Scragg.”
I love it when a plan comes together.
