Chapter 25
Bobbie Jo scowled at him as he walked by, and her lips turned into a straight line when she saw me. I wondered what that was about, but brushed it off.
"So, where to?" Craig asked as we headed out the door. I left my guitar case at the studio, knowing it was safe there.
"As I said, let's go to Powder Keg Tavern. I'd really want to thank Judy."
Craig nodded. "Do you mind if we go in my car?"
I shook my head. "No. Not at all."
As I followed him out to the parking lot, he started walking toward a brand new Mercedes. He clicked the door unlock and then popped open the trunk.
"This is your car?" I asked, shoving my hands into the pockets of my jeans.
Craig chuckled. "Yes; it is. Don't worry. You'll have one of these soon, too, if you want."
I shook my head as I raised my eyebrows. "I'm not so sure about that."
Craig laughed. "You'd better get used to this lifestyle, Alyssa Case, because your ship has just come in."
I smiled at his joke, but I knew that I would be more comfortable with a farm on a ranch somewhere. Not the jet set lifestyle.
"Please, allow me," he said as he opened my car door.
Reluctantly, I slid in and he closed the door behind me. Somehow, something didn't feel right about this. I really hoped that he didn't have any ideas other than just being my manager. I had already made myself clear, but if he didn't get the idea, then I would have to make myself clearer.
A few moments later, we pulled out onto the road, headed for the Powder Keg Tavern. Craig maneuvered through the traffic with ease. Riding in his car felt like riding on air. You hardly felt any bumps in the road at all. I enjoyed watching the scenery pass by, and the people, too. It was downtown Nashville, and the crosswalks and sidewalks were crowded since it was still early.
Craig turned a little in his seat to look into my eyes. "So, tell me. How long have you been in Nashville?"
I laughed as I turned my attention out the window. "You wouldn't believe it if I told you."
Craig chuckled. "Try me." He turned down another street. "I've been in Nashville a long time, and everyone's story is different."
I looked over at him. "This is my third day in Nashville."
He almost choked. "You have got to be kidding me!"
I shook my head. "Nope. My first day in Nashville, I went to the Powder Keg Tavern for an early dinner-about this time, in fact. Tasha Granger was there, and the waitress, Judy, introduced us. Tasha invited me to her gig to sing, and the rest is history." I took a deep breath. "Tasha and Frank have been very good to me."
Craig shook his head. "Well, I've heard some strange success stories, but that one takes the cake." He let out a deep breath as he raised his eyebrows in disbelief. "Well, I think congratulations are in order."
I smiled. "Thank you."
"And that's why you want to go to Powder Keg Tavern today. To thank the waitress."
I nodded.
"Very admirable," Craig said. "You remember those who helped you to get where you are."
I shrugged. "I try."
He smiled. "Very admirable."
I turned my attention back to the famous landmarks outside the window, and, soon, we pulled up in front of the Powder Keg Tavern.
"We're here," he said, stating the obvious. I started to get out, but he placed his hand on my arm. "Please wait."
I looked down at his hand and glared at him. He immediately removed it, and then got out of the car and opened my door.
"That wasn't necessary, but thank you," I said as I slung my purse over my shoulder.
"I am a gentleman, if nothing else." He placed his hand on the small of my back, leading me in. I was sure that it was part of his "just being a gentleman", but I felt uncomfortable so I moved away. Thank goodness, he took the hint and let his hand drop to his side.
"Allow me?" he asked as he opened the door for me.
"Thanks," I said as I walked in.
"May I help you?" the hostess asked.
I looked around. It was quiet; just before the dinner rush.
"Yes. Is Judy working today?" I asked, hoping beyond all hope.
"Why, as I live and breathe!" a familiar voice said from across the room.
I looked over, and it was Judy. I waved to her inconspicuously.
"My, my, sugar! I'm so glad to see you here!" she said to me, and then turned to the hostess. "Sit this little lady and her friend in my station." Then she looked over at me. "I'll be with you in just a minute."
A broad smile spread across the hostess' face. "Will do!"
I smiled, and we followed as the hostess led us to a table and laid the menus down. "Judy will be right with you."
"Thank you," I said, happy to be back again.
"Allow me, please," Craig said, holding my chair.
I rolled my eyes and sat down. "Thank you." His behavior was starting to annoy me.
He smirked. "You aren't used to being around many gentlemen, are you?" Then, he leaned in and said in a low voice. "My mother would never forgive me if I didn't treat a lady like a lady. Please allow me to be a gentleman with you."
I laughed, in spite of myself. "Well, I wouldn't want to disappoint your mother "
"Very well, then," he said, smiling as he opened his menu. "So, what's good here?"
"Haven't you ever been here before?" I asked suspiciously
He looked at me over his menu. "Yes, I have, but it's been a while."
I smiled. "Well, the Mushroom Swiss Burger is delicious."
Craig closed his menu and smiled. "Then, I'll have one."
I smiled. Somehow, it was hard for me to picture Craig Savage-in his impeccable suit-eating a juicy burger. But, we would soon see.
