I shook my head. “She’s good. I was thinking I could take you out for breakfast. That’ll give you time to figure out what you’re going to do about Demetrius—unless you’ve already figured it out.”
Slowly, Andre nodded. “You said you were okay if we all met here?”
“Of course.”
“Then…I think that. Not public, that’s for sure. And, uh—”
“You’re not comfortable going to his house?”
Andre shook his head.
“Then we invite him here. Do you want to do that right away? Get the ball rolling?”
“It’s barely eight.” Andre squinted at his phone. “I can’t believe I was gone that long. I sort of lost track of time.” He met my gaze. “I hope you weren’t worried.”
“No. You’re an adult. I figured you’d find your way home.”Although I would’ve felt better if you’d taken the money. Ah well, money couldn’t solve all problems.
Andre tapped his phone against his thigh. “Maybe I should text Demetrius? How would eleven o’clock be? Not a mealtime, so there’s no…feeling like he has to bring something? Does that make sense?”
“That does make sense. I’d say go ahead and text him. If he wants to bring Alaina, she can go for a walk with Daphne and me.”
Andre’s eyes widened. “I thought you’d be here.”
I rose from my chair and moved to his side. “If you want me here, then I’ll be here.”
“But I should suggest he bring his daughter?”
I considered. “Well, she’s old enough to be left alone. Just be prepared he might ask to bring her. She’s welcome. Along with their schnauzers Gizmo and Gus.”
“Two dogs?” Andre rubbed his face.
“Yes. I’m certain he’ll leave them at home—but I just want you to be prepared in case he asks.”
“Right.” He nodded. “What do I say?”
“I’d say you can make it as simple as extending an invitation to come here at eleven. Understand, though, he might not be able to make it.”
Andre shut his left eye as if he was thinking really hard. “It’s Saturday, right?”
“Sure. But people have plans on Saturdays as well as other days.”
“I used to work Saturdays. I worked any day I could.” He winced. “I didn’t mean to say that.”
“It’s okay.”
“Thanks.” He bit his lower lip. “Although I’m not certain what I’m thanking you for.”
“For being friendly and helpful?” I offered a smile. “Go ahead and text. If it’s too early, he won’t answer.”God, please be gentle, Demetrius. Andre’s a scared freaking rabbit—ready to bolt at the slightest startle.
Although I was damn curious, I didn’t ask to see the text Andre sent. He was pouring himself another glass when his phone buzzed.
He glanced at it. Slowly, he smiled. “He said he’d be here at eleven and is looking forward to it. No mention of Alaina or dogs. Should I…?”
I shook my head. “Looks like he’s got things under control. So how about you shower, and I take you for breakfast at Fifties?”
Andre nodded. “Yeah, I need a shower first—if that’s okay.”
“No problems. I’ll play with Daphne.”
