I twist up the stick. “Good point. I ordered the chicken Alfredo. You ordered before I got here. Did you order that or go for the chicken breast with potato?”
“Go away.” Her voice is even more disgruntled.
“Not a good idea if I do. Otherwise, I have to tell your dad that you’re crying in the bathroom?—”
“Don’t,” she cuts me off.
My eyes meet my reflection in the mirror, congratulating myself for grabbing her attention enough that I can stay. “Okay, then are you not feeling well?”
It’s a long silence, but then I hear the click of her door, and it opens slightly. I turn my body to see what her next move is, but nothing happens.
“Do you… you… have something?”
I step forward. “Uh, what do you mean?”
“Something. You know,something.”
I circle my eyes as I try to decode, and then it hits me. “Oh, I—yeah.” I begin to search my purse. “I think I have a tampon.”
“I…” Lori sounds petrified.
Then it dawns on me again. “Is this your first time by chance?”
Another sniffle, and I have my answer. I flinch and my body tightens. It’s her first period and she’s stuck with me in a bathroom. I wasn’t prepared for this, nor was she.
“I think it’s better if we get you a pad, let me think.” I’m beginning to panic because I don’t see anything around. Stay calm, Lexi. Do it for the almost thirteen-year-old who is going through a major life event. “I know.” I lift a finger in the air. “Let’s break out of this place. I have my car here, and we’ll tend to important matters instead of listening to an old guy talk about hotel stuff.”
The door to her stall opens even further, and her red face seems to accept that this is our only option, and she nods gently.
A line stretches on my mouth in support for her before I search my bag for the key to my car. “Here.” I hand it to her.
“Please… don’t tell him why we’re leaving.”
I zip my lips with my fingers. “I won’t,” I promise.
Okay, it seems the waterfall tears want to form, but I remain defiant and hold them in for her, and she snatches the keys and walks away. This is a big moment for her, and she must be scared. There isn’t a woman in her life, but somehow the universe decided it should be shared with me.
Once I can’t see Lori, I let out a deep breath that I think I need because I’m surprised we both survived that scene.
Gathering myself for a few ticks, I head straight back to the table.
Holden looks at me with concern and seems to be searching for Lori. “Where is my daughter?”
I lean down with one hand on the back of his chair and the other on the table to ensure I’m only in his earshot. “I think this is a perfect guys’ night. Lori and I will be leaving.”
“She hasn’t even had dinner yet?” Holden doesn’t sound pleased.
I smile tightly to him. “Trust me, okay?” I mumble under my breath. His brows lift, not impressed. “Holden, we’re leaving.” I’m firm in my tone that only he can hear.
He examines my face, only to read the message in my eyes that I’m putting my foot down and he has no choice but to accept it. “Sure. I’ll bring home a doggy bag.”
I stand and give the table a wide smile. “Forgotten homework, right?” I lift my shoulders.
“It’s Saturday,” Harry points out.
Geez, can anyone at this table just let it go?
“John, although brief, it was nice to meet you. I’m sure we will cross paths again.”
