Chapter 12: Sunday, May 12, 2024

Sunday morning was usually a quiet time for Eve and Will. This Sunday they were interrupted by the reminder alarm on Eve’s phone.

“Oh, shit, that’s right. Today is the brunch with the office staff,” lamented Eve.

She looked over at Will who was playing a game on his tablet. He just shrugged.

“I really don’t want to go,” continued Eve.

“It’s two hours, at most, and you know the doc doesn’t do a very good job of recognizing the staff, so this is his attempt at giving you an ‘atta boy.’”

“Yeah, I know, but still. It’s Sunday. We stay in bed until almost lunch, then get up and do nothing but have some food and then kick around the house all afternoon. It’s our day.”

“Most Sundays, yes, but today is an exception. Now go get in the shower and let’s get moving. If brunch wraps up early maybe we can catch the new release we talked about last week.”

Somewhat mollified, Eve got out of bed and sulked toward the bathroom.

“I still don’t like our day being interrupted.” She turned and entered the bathroom before Will could reply.

Even though they showered and dressed separately and made it out of the house in just over forty minutes, they were the last to arrive at the restaurant. The doc gave a very inspired toast when the wine was served to thank his staff for all their hard work, and when needed, going above and beyond what would normally be expected. He made an effort to call out Eve as a prime example when she worked her day off, Will’s birthday no less, when the need arose.

After dessert everyone seemed to get the urge to leave at the same time. Each employee stopped by the doc’s chair to say thanks for the great lunch. When Eve and Will approached he stood and gave Eve a hug. Quietly, out of earshot of those that remained, he said, “I hope you know how much I appreciate what you do for the office. Some of this group can border of worthless, but you are my rock star. Thank you.”

Eve blushed slightly, but said, “Thanks for the kind words earlier, and of course, for the wonderful meal.”

Will chimed in, “Yeah, thanks, it was all great. Hope to see you again, soon.”

The doc shook Will’s hand and said, “Happy belated birthday. Sorry to pull Eve away on your birthday, but she really saved the day.”

“It turned out to be a spectacular birthday, so no-harm-no-foul.”

They wished the doctor a final farewell then headed to the car. As Eve settled into her seat she pulled out her phone to check the theater schedule.

“We have time to go to the movie if you still want to.”

Will put the car in reverse and said, “Yep, we’re out, let’s do it.”

They got tickets and were surprised to find that the theater was almost empty for a new release. They sat toward the back in the center of a row.