“That boy’s a bully, kid. You have to kick his ass. Fuck him up real good and he’ll never bother you again.”
“Can you watch your language around these kids, please?” Sheriff Rose says.
“I already told them not to cuss. Not until you’re about twelve.” I nod at the kids, who nod in agreement.
“Um, I don’t know how to fight,” Tim says. He’s a tall kid. A little on the skinny side, but he has big hands.
“Have you told your parents?”
“That is none of your—” Sylvie begins, but Tim talks over her.
“My dad never listens to me, and Mom says she’s praying about it.”
“Praying about it?”
Tim nods.
“What’s the boy’s name?”
“Ronnie Duggan Junior.”
“Duggan?”
“Yup.” Tim makes a face of disgust.
“I know his father. He’s a real shithead, so I’m not surprised his son’s a bully.”
“Ripley!” Eden says.
Ignoring her, I address Tim, “The prayer’s been answered, kid. I’m gonna go talk to his father today, and I promise you no person in this town will ever bother you again.”
He gasps and looks into my face. “Really?”
“As soon as I leave this restaurant.” I look at the little girl. “What about you? Anyone bothering you? Give me their name, and I’ll take care of it.”
“Nope,” Eva says.
“Good. And next time, I’m going to teach you both how to fuck someone up. Let me see your fists.”
“So, Dandy, how’s work going?” Serena asks several moments later.
Before Eden can answer, our server returns with our meals. As expected, she looks wistfully at my steak. I hand her my second entrée, and she smiles in gratitude.
I notice her mom watching us, while the other two adults are busy helping the kids with their meals. She offers me a half smile that I don’t return.
“Work is great.” Eden sits a little straighter. “I’m a shift supervisor now, and that comes with a raise. When the position came up, I didn’t apply, but Oscar asked me to. I wasn’t gonna do it, but Rip encouraged me.”
Her mom forces a smile, but I notice Sylvie flares her nostrils.
“That’s wonderful, honey.” Serena nods at her daughter. “Congratulations. How about I make your favorite dinner next weekend to celebrate?”
“I’ll pass,” is all Eden says.
“Ripley is welcome,” her mom says to entice her to agree. “It’s your home, Eden. We don’t want you to stay away.” When Eden doesn’t answer, she says, “And if anyone has an issue with Ripley being there, she can stay away.”
Her eyes narrow on Sylvie, who is picking at her plate. She glares at her mother, but remains quiet.
“I don’t want this.” Tim pushes his plate of chicken nuggets and fries aside. “I want to eat that.” He points at my steak.
