Behind Blue Eyes
Copyright© 2025 by DB86
Chapter 17
Robert looked at his watch and climbed into his car. The mental image of Janice and Benji cooking dinner together made him smile. His watch said twenty to seven. It would take him a half hour to get home. If he hurried, he’d make it to Dave’s place by eight, or thereabouts. Benji had probably fixed tacos or pizza with her mother. He could eat a few bites and leave.
Robert knew he was dead wrong the second he walked into the kitchen. The smell of roast and everything that went with it assailed him. The kitchen table had been set with a cloth and matching napkins for four people.
On the way to his bedroom, he glanced into the living room and saw Janice and Benji playing chopsticks.
Janice was dressed in a pair of navy sweats, and a white T-Shirt. Robert’s heart missed several beats.
She lifted her head, saw him staring down at her, and let out a soft gasp. “You’re home! We have worked so hard on this dinner for you.”
Robert stifled a groan. How could he have been so stupid? It was obvious Benji was going to ask his mother to cook a special meal for their first dinner together.
Unfortunately, he’d already committed to Dave and couldn’t back out now. He had to think fast to come up with a solution that wouldn’t disappoint his son and his mother, or his friend, Dave.
“I’ll be ready in five minutes. I have other plans for this evening so I’ll have to eat quickly.”
Janice didn’t flick an eyelash. “Then I’ll help Benji put everything on the table right now.”
“Thanks.”
Robert’s eyes followed her retreating figure before he realized he didn’t have time to dwell on her curves.
He dashed into his bedroom and took a five-minute shower. Once he had shaved and dressed in a pullover and trousers, he phoned Dave and told him not to hold dinner for him and that he’d be there by eight-thirty at the latest. Being the good man he was, Dave didn’t ask questions, only thanked him for the call.
The vegetables and gravy along with the roast were so good, that Robert asked for a third helping.
“You never eat that much, Dad,” Benji approved.
“It’s your fault. Everything was delicious,” Robert said patting his belly.
Janice smiled at her son. “This is nothing. Your father used to eat even more when we were in college.”
“Really, Dad?” Benji stared at his father with new appreciation.
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