Chapter Twenty-Four
Jamie groaned as herolled out of bed.The new mattress was a godsend, but he still felt tired after the last few days.It seemed never-ending.He groped around, turning off the alarm clock.It was still dark outside.At least it’s still cool in the mornings.I’ve got to get air-conditioning in here.
Per usual, Jamie was the first one in.He’d turned on all the lights, started the ovens preheating, and stopped to look at the old kitchen.So many memories were in here.He’d spent so many hours watching and helping his grandmother.He couldn’t help but smile.
He got the first batch of biscuits in the oven and had started on the next batch when Walter came in.
“Mornin’, Jamie.I hope you got some rest.”
“Yeah, I think I may have actually died last night.It’s been a while since I’ve been so tired after work.”
“It was a very long day for all of us.”Walter turned on the flattop grill, having donned a cooks shirt and apron.He fixed his ball cap in place.
Timmy shuffled in, yawning.He waved to Jamie as he also got a clean shirt and apron.
“Yet another day in paradise,” Dexter said as he came in.“Mornin’, all.”
Walter turned the exhaust fan and the radio on, ending the silence.They all worked, getting ready for the day ahead.
“How many biscuits do you think I need to make, Walter?”Jamie asked.
“After yesterday, I really have no idea.”Walter had stopped, turning towards Jamie.
“Okay.I’ll make extra.I can always make up more if we need them for lunch.Same with the corn bread.”
Walter nodded and went back to forming burgers.
“Morning, everyone.It’s a beautiful day.”Joesph sauntered into the kitchen with Salzy right behind him.
“Coffee.I need lots and lots of coffee,” Salzy said, stepping around Joesph.“You want some?”
“Yes, please.Loads of sugar and cream.”
“I’ll give you coffee, but you’ll have to doctor it up the way you want.”Salzy went to the coffee pots, Jamie already having made two pots, most of the first one already gone.
Joesph and then Salzy stood on the other side of where Jamie was working.Salzy was almost finished with his cup of coffee while Joesph seemed to be sipping his slowly.
“What time do the waitresses come in?”Joesph asked.
“Any minute now,” Jamie answered, stirring up the corn bread batter.
“We’d better get a move on then,” Joesph said to Salzy.“Oh, I’m borrowing your handyman to help with the photos.”
Jamie looked at Joesph, who was dressed conservatively today, but not too much.He still had on short white basketball type shorts, a white tank top, and pink Converse tennis shoes with matching socks.
“Whatever floats your boat.”He looked over at Salzy, who was getting a second cup of coffee.“You still going to the hardware store?”
“Yeah, as soon as Joesph is finished with his photoshoot.Why?”
“I made up a list of stuff to get.It’s in the office on the desk.”
“I’ll go and get my camera.”Joesph started to set his coffee on Jamie’s workbench till he saw the expression on Jamie’s face.“Well,excu-uuseme.”He sashayed over to the table that Mike had used the night before.He looked over his shoulder at Jamie before setting the coffee cup, saucer, and spoon on it.He cocked his head, eyebrows slightly arched.
Salzy watched this performance and giggled.“I see youtrainall your employees.”He also set his cup down and walked after Joesph.
Dexter stood next to Jamie and looked at him.“There are times I swear to God Almighty that you are Ms.Mattie incarnate!”
Jamie laughed.“Why do you say that?”
