Lunch/Brunch the Next Day

This is me facing my fear. Here it goes.


Carly took me to a Mom and Pop shop on the outside of town. I love these kinds of places.
"How did you find this place, Carly?"
"I was out driving one day, was hungry, and I came upon this place. I was feeling adventurous and stopped. They have the best breakfasts ever. I really like the omelet."
"Which omelet? I see several of them."
"Well, it doesn't matter. I have tried several of them and they all have been fantastic."
In the last 2 days I have come to love seeing the light that bounces in Carly's eyes. It is very playful. I wonder if light is always there, as in the rule and not the exception.
"Welcome, I'm Sam. I'll be your waitress, what can I get for you this morning?" Sam said with a smile.
"I'll take the largest orange juice you've got. And the Country Omelet with hash browns." Carly's eyes grew bigger as I ordered. "What? I'm hungry."
"And for you ma'am?"
"I'll take the Spanish Omelet with hash browns, and apple juice, if you've got it."
"Not a problem; I'll get that ordered. Be back in jiff with your juice."
"Thank you, Sam.
"How are this morning, Carly?"
"I'm fine. Should I be any different?" I just shook my head.
"You are an engaged women now."
"Yes, I am."
"Have you even told anyone?" Carly just shook her head. This surprised me. I thought women just ran around and tell everyone.
"Does that surprise you?" she asked reading my thoughts.
"Actually, it does. How come?" I ask quizzically.
"There are a couple of reasons. The first is that you and I have been on two dates. When I think about telling anyone I just can't think of a way to tell our story that will help them understand. How about you?"
"Well, I haven't told anyone pretty much for the same reason. Quite honestly, I am enjoying hiding this secret for how ever long."
"Me, too." Carly replied with a chuckle.
"What about your family, Carly?"
"Mom will be excited of course. My dad...well, that's another story. I'm not sure how to prepare you for him. I'm a daddy's girl. So, when he doesn't like you don't take it personal. If it was the dude next me with the red curly hair that picks his nose constantly. Heck, I could be engaged to Matt Damon and he would not be a happy camper."
"That makes me feel really good."
"What about you, Matt...I mean Brian?"
I was about to question who "Matt" was, but I caught it after a minute.
"My Mom will be cautiously excited."
"Cautiously?" Carly asked with raised eyebrows."
"I didn't necessarily leave home under the best circumstances. It's a long story. I promise I'll tell you about it."
"What about your Dad?"
"Dad, died a couple of years ago. I don't think he'll be a problem."
"Oh, I am so sorry. What happened?"
"He was working in the yard, mowing the lawn and had a heart attack. The ambulance had gotten him to the hospital. The staff were able to get him stabilized in the ER, but he died while he was on the operating table."
"How old was he?"
"He was 59."
"Are you okay to talk about it?"
"Oh, I'm okay with it. I made my peace long ago."
"Sorry, this has taken so long, but here is your juice. You omelets are next up." Sitting on the table in front of me was a quart jar full of orange juice. I don't care what the omelets taste like this place has just become my favorite place.
"Thank you." both of us said.