“Ladies, you’re in luck,” Teddy said. “The owner’s booth is available.”
“That’s even better,” said one of the women. “This is the first leg of our bachelorette party.”
“I can seat you.” He glanced back at Tara. “We’ll talk after you seat your friend.”
“Yes, sir.”
Teddy led the group toward the owner’s horseshoe booth tucked in the back corner of the main dining room. After seating the first six, he pulled over two chairs for the remaining two.
“This is pretty tight,” said one of the women.
“Your res isn’t for another forty-five,” Teddy said. “You can get started here, or wait at the bar for your table to open.”
“I’ll sit at the bar,” volunteered one, “if you can join me for a drink.” She grinned up at him. “What’s your name?”
“Tank Santini. I’m the GM.”
“Hello, GM,” said the first woman. “We’ll stay here. Maybe you can check on us.” She puckered her lips before blowing him an air kiss.
He shot the group a smile, and a collective sigh floated his way. He was aware that the Santini brothers were blessed with good looks. It was what it was.
“We’re headed to Lost Souls after,” one of them said. “But we’re changing first.”
“We should have come here dressed in our Halloween costumes,” said another.
“What’s it gonna be?” Teddy eyed the crowd forming at front of house.
“We’ll each take one of you.”
Teddy chuffed out a laugh. “I’m not on the menu.”
“My night is ruined.”
“Are you staying here or waiting in the bar?” Teddy pressed them.
“We’re good. Thank you, Tank.”
“Have a great time.” He caught the eye of their server who intercepted him as he made his way toward the hostess stand.
“Are they friends of yours, Mr. Santini?”
“No, so no comping. It’s a bachelorette party.”
“Got it,” the server said before making his way toward the gaggle of women.
On his way back to the hostess station, Teddy spotted Hollywood perched on a stool at the bar chatting with the couple next to him.
Once back at front of house, Tara said, “Sorry about Hollywood. I won’t seat him in your booth again.”
Teddy glanced toward her boyfriend, but he wasn’t at the bar. One quick search found Hollywood chatting it up with the women at the bachelorette party.
The guy gets around.
“Looks like Hollywood’s having himself a good time,” Teddy said.
Tara followed his gaze. “He’s a recruiter, and helovesmeeting new people.”
Not at my restaurant.
