After we round the corner, Lydia parks her car in the employee lot. My stomach flips and flops. I must remind myself this isn’t the first job I’ve had. In fact, I worked all year at the local diner, but The Greenbrier is entirely different. I’m intimidated by the grandeur of the resort. Lydia told me all about her experience working there last summer. She isn’t the sort to leave out any details, either. She raked in a lot of cash. And that’s just one reason why I’m here. Truthfully, I can’t wait to watch and learn from the resort’s award winning chefs.
“You’ll do fine. Just smile at the guests and they’ll smile back. They’re only human, just the same as you and me, remember that,” Lydia says.
“They aren’t the same as you and me. They’re bigger than we are. They come here from big cities. I’ve never even left this area of West Virginia. The only big city I’ve ever seen was on TV.” I look down at my plain old work pumps.
“Sugar, you’ll do just fine. Why, you’re flawless at anything you set your mind to doin’. And don’t you forget what Mr. Frank told ya about workin’ hard. I believe him when he said you’d end up helping in the kitchen. Now stop this nonsense, will ya?” Lydia laces her arm through mine and together we take our first steps of summer.
We enter the resort through a back entrance and walk down a large tunnel. It leads us into the kitchen, where we’re greeted by our boss, Mr. Frank.
“Good evening ladies, welcome,” he says, and his mustache stretches distractingly into a thin line. “You’re just in time for my little speech.” We join the rest of the wait staff and try to appear interested in whatever Mr. Frank has to say. “Remember, The Greenbrier Resort is an established vacation destination for influential families. We are fortunate to have such an important historical attraction so close to our homes. Never forget, while you work to make a living, you also represent our hometown.” He then proceeds to brief us on how the night ought to run. “Tonight’s probably the most important of them all. You can only make a first impression one time.” He raises a finger, as if we don’t clearly understand.
We receive an updated sheet of paper with our guests’ names and we’re told to memorize them.
Lydia whispers, “It wouldn’t hurt for you to learn some information about the guests, as well. You know, like where they’re from and what they like to do for fun. Stuff like that. We’re on. Let’s go meet and greet.”
The wait staff enters the main dining room in perfectly synchronized, almost choreographed, movements.
“Breathtaking,” I whisper.
Ornate chandeliers, with dangling crystals and emeralds, hang over circular tables. In the center of each table is a beautiful vase of fresh flowers, along with some candles, and gorgeous emerald-green water glasses. The guests are already seated.
Nervously, I gulp and approach my first table. There, in front of me, sits a group of eight sophisticated looking people. Jewels and fancy gowns bedazzle the women and the men wear tailored suits. One by one, they stop mid-sentence and offer me their drink orders. Strangely enough, I am able to push aside my nerves, and the night flies by in a complete blur.
~ * * * ~
By the time all the guests have cleared the room, Lydia and I find ourselves sitting at one of the tables.
“Thanks Lydia, I can’t believe I made it through the night without a single major accident. I mean, I’m surprised I didn’t trip over my feet and spill a drink on someone.”
Lydia waves a dismissive hand. “You did great, kiddo. See, you worried for nothin’. Are you ready to celebrate?”
“Celebrate? What do you have in mind?” I know my friend too well not to feel both thrilled and nervous.
“You brought a change of clothes, right?” Lydia looks at me questionably. I nod eagerly, and she smiles in her mischievous way. “Good, then you just leave the rest to me. It’s only 10:00, and we’re only young once.”
With that, we leave The Greenbrier behind, ready to find ourselves a good time.
~ * * * ~
As Lydia drives her car toward town, I jump into the backseat and transform my appearance. I put on my favorite floral pink sundress, add a jean jacket, and then slip on my tan boots. Since I’ve practiced it many times before, changing in the car is easy. After returning to the front seat, I check my hair and lipstick in the mirror.
“When do you plan on telling me where we’re heading?” I ask anxiously.
“Some of the gang’s gonna be at Max’s Bar. I figured we’d start there,” she says and pulls over to the side of the road. “Are you ready to take the wheel? I need to get out of this uniform and make myself over. I’m anxious to see if Bradley will be there. He’s so fine, just thinking about him makes my toes curl.”
Lydia’s toes are constantly curling for one guy or another. I, on the other hand, don’t have much time for romance. My life is full enough. I’m happy and have other ideas for my future; one that doesn’t include any of the men I know. Thank you very much.
After jumping into the passenger seat, Lydia exclaims, “Let’s tear it up!”
She has successfully changed into a black and white striped shirt and a pair of high red pumps. I’m not surprised to see her stone washed jeans. They’re her favorite; she has often told me how proud she is of the Guess logo on the back. Lydia has frosted blonde hair that stands high above her head. Although I think she wears too much eye shadow and hot-pink lipstick, she’s definitely pretty.
My excitement’s high after having such an awesome night at my new job. With my close friend leading the way, I’m ready to make the first night of summer a memorable one.
Not long after entering the familiar bar, Lydia squeals, “Bradley’s here! Let’s go over there and chat it up!”
“I’ll meet you in a minute. I’m gonna have the jukebox play our favorite song,” I say with a smile.
“Okay. Wish me luck with Bradley!” Lydia says and scurries off to where her latest crush is playing darts.
Max’s bar is busier than usual. I know just about everyone here. In fact, most of us started kindergarten together. As I push my way through the crowd, I smile and hug many of my old friends.
Against the back wall, right next to the pool table, sits my jukebox. Coins fall into the music machine, and it plays my song. I close my eyes and hum lightly, allowing Tom Petty’s lyrics to flow through me . . . American Girl.
“This is a great song choice.” Some guy says, interfering with my song, but I don’t look up. I’m trying to ignore him, when he adds, “I was getting tired of listening to big hair bands and heavy metal. For a brief second, I considered changing the music, but I’m glad you beat me to it,” he says, and I open my eyes to see who is brave enough to interrupt. Wow, I’m unable to respond and simply stare, dumbstruck. It takes an uncomfortable minute before I realize this is the point at which I’m supposed to insert a witty comment…
My eyes slowly trail up his tall well-built frame, and I just know my cheeks are turning pink. I must say something. Finally, I am able to ask, “So why didn’t you?”
“I figured this crowd wouldn’t appreciate it if I took the liberty of changing the music to U2 or INXS,” he says with a smile, showing his sparkling white teeth.
Will I ever breathe again? I can’t be making a very good impression here. I must force myself to inhale and act cool. All right, here goes nothing. “Those guys aren’t so bad. You’re right though, since you’re an outsider, it’s probably best not to shake things up in here. Unless, of course, you’re the sort to go looking for a little trouble.”
“I’m just in here trying to have a good time. I’m definitely not looking for any trouble with those guys.” The stranger looks around the bar and leans in closer. Quietly he adds, “Have you noticed how massive some of them are?”
“You’d never know their workout and diet consists of tipping cows and drinking beer,” I say, smiling brightly. “They’re a great group of guys though, big teddy bears. I’ve known most of them all my life.”
“Well, I hope one of them doesn’t pulverize me for talking to his woman.”
“Why, are you worried? I bet you could take any one of them in a fight, if you had to.”
“I don’t know about that. Just for kicks, I’d rather not push my luck,” he says, peering over his shoulder.
“You won’t have to look over your shoulder, while talking to me, that is. These guys are more like my brothers than anything else.”
“I’m not sure that’s a whole lot better. Brothers tend to be pretty protective of their little sisters.”
“I guess you’ll just have to see if I’m worth the risk,” I say, the words falling out of my mouth far too easily.
“I have a feeling you are, and I’m willing to take my chances.” When he smiles again, I’m pulled into a trance. He leans in closer, lowers his voice and says, “It will be even better if I don’t get pulverized in the process.”
“Just make sure you keep your hands where everyone can see them, and you’ll be just fine,” I tease.
“Understood,” he says and places both hands in the air. “By the way, I’m William Berringer.”
“Delilah Jones. You know, you look pretty silly with your arms raised like that. I guess you can lower them.”
“It’s nice to meet you, Delilah,” William says, as his arms fall to his sides.
I like hearing my name roll off William’s lips. He holds a certain air about him, a mixture of quiet confidence and sophistication. It’s obvious he isn’t from anywhere around here.
“What brings you to our quaint little town? Are you visiting someone?” I ask.
“I’m on vacation with my family. We’ve been coming here for the past few years. My parents normally stay all summer, but I’m usually only here for a week or so.”
“Not enough to keep you around very long, huh?”
“Maybe I haven’t found anyone friendly enough to show me the town properly.”
“Is that so?” I say and look down.
“What do you think? Can I take you out sometime? Perhaps you could show me around?”
“That’d be great!” I say a little too enthusiastically.
“What are you doing tomorrow?”
“I have to work, but I’m free Sunday.”
“Perfect.”
I size him up, again. Yeah, he definitely has style. William’s sculpted dark-brown hair looks cool. I like his blue jeans and buttoned down shirt. How cute, he even rolls up his sleeves. And I bet if the bar didn’t smell overwhelmingly like stale beer, I’d fall in love with his cologne.
Three
William and I continue with our playful banter for hours. After awhile, I realize I’ve been slurping on an empty glass of cola, but who cares! I’m really digging this guy!
“Your drink is empty,” William says.
“Yes,” I say in return.
“I must apologize for not having it filled. Don’t worry though, my manners have returned. Please, let me buy you another drink,” he offers sweetly.
“Thanks.”
“All right, I’ll only be a minute. Why don’t you surprise me with a few more songs? I have a feeling I’ll like whatever you choose,” he says and hands me five dollars.
“I can cover it, there’s no need to give me money.”
“My ears will be forever indebted to you.”
Reluctantly, I take his money and watch him walk to the bar. Hmm, his backside looks equally as good as the front. In fact, the way his jeans mold to his . . . . All right, I need to focus on choosing some music.
I’m studying the playlist, when an all too familiar voice echoes, “What are you doing?”
I don’t have to look up to know it is Lydia. She quickly gains my attention after squeezing my arm. Wow, she looks darn right rattled.
“I’m picking out some music. Geez Louise, Lydia, what do you think I’m doing?” I say and roll my eyes.
“I’m sorry, but you can’t hang out with him,” urges Lydia. “He’s one of The Greenbrier guests, one of my guests. You’re gonna get yourself fired if you start hangin’ around him!”
“Darn, I thought there was something familiar about him. It figures I’d fall for someone who’s off limits,” I say with a sigh. “Hey, we’ve been talking for hours, and you’re just now warning me!”
“Delilah, this is the first time I’ve been able to get you alone. He’s been hovering over you all night.”
“He has, hasn’t he?”
“Sugar, you need to wipe that silly smile off your face. This is serious. You can’t fall for him.”
“Maybe I could date him and not tell anyone. It’s not like they ask me about my personal life at the time clock.”
“I’m sorry, sugar, but you’re gonna have to let him go. You know how small this town is when it comes to knowin’ everybody’s business. Just forget about this one.” She shrugs her shoulders and adds, “Maybe at summer’s end, you can pick things up.”
“No, you’re right. Besides, his teeth are a little too polished for me anyway,” I say, trying to look brave.
As if on cue, William shows up with our drinks. He and Lydia exchange polite smiles and hellos.
“Good luck,” she whispers into my ear and wanders away.
“I guess you found me out,” William says, gently placing the drink in my hand. “Look, I didn’t say anything because I guessed it might be a problem.”
“You think? I could lose my job,” I say, trying not to look up at his gorgeous face. Why do his eyes have to be a delicious shade of golden brown?
“All right, confession time . . . I saw you at dinner.”
“What?” I say, and a mixture of hot and cold runs through my body. “You knew I worked at the resort. We’ve been talking for hours, and you didn’t bother to mention you were a guest there.”
“You made quite an impression on me. I wanted to get to know you. What’s the big deal? So what if you work at the same place where I’m a guest? It shouldn’t matter.”
“I’m sorry, but I don’t want to lose my job. It’s been fun talking with you though,” I say, focusing on a crushed peanut shell on the floor.
“If that’s how you feel, I’ll respect your decision, even if it is for the wrong reason.”
“Thanks for understanding. I wish things could’ve been different,” I say with false confidence.
“Just so you know I’m actually not put off that easily. We’ll see each other again. In fact, I believe we both have obligations to be in the main dining hall tomorrow evening.” He leans in closer, and I can feel his hushed words on my neck, “I’m not giving up easily. Like I said before, I believe you’re worth it.” After pulling back, he winks and disappears into the crowd.
I smile, realizing it’s too late for me. I’m hooked. Secretly, I hope he does pursue me, even if it is a bad idea. I watch him walk away and from the corner of my eye, I can see Lydia heading my way.
“Hell’s bells, it looks like our good time tonight was just cut short. I’ll go say good night to Bradley. Give me a sec, okay?” Lydia says, putting her arm around me.
~ * * * ~
Surely some good music will cure me. I turn on Lydia’s car radio and playing is a stupid sappy song. I turn it off. Heck, I wish I could pull the stinkin’ radio out of the dash and toss it out the window. Maybe that would make me feel better.
“Hey, I like that song,” Lydia says, while driving me home.
“Sorry, I just need a little peace and quiet.”
“Whatever you say.”
Neither of us speaks a word. And for that I am grateful.
All right, enough silence. I can’t stand it anymore!
“So, what’s the scoop on Mr. William Berringer, anyway?” I ask.
“You sure you want to know ‘bout him?” Lydia takes a sideways glance at me before spilling the beans. “Well, his family lives in the D.C. area . . . you know, the Capitol?”
“Really, I didn’t realize D.C. was the Capitol,” I say, and for good
measure throw in, “Duh.”
“Look, I realize you’re mad, but don’t take it out on me! If you’re gonna act like a big baby about it, then you can go and find out about him from someone else.”
“Sorry, I don’t seem to have much control over what I’m sayin’ tonight.”
“Alrighty then, I guess since you just had your heart squished like a bug, I’ll let it go. So anyway, his father’s a big-wig politician, and his mother floats around high society circles, recruiting for her favorite charity of the moment. From what I gather, William goes to college. For the past few years, they’ve been comin’ here every summer. Only William doesn’t usually stick around very long. Guess he’d rather party it up with his frat buddies on campus or somethin’. Can’t say I blame him. I’d rather do the same.”
“Hmm, thanks for the lowdown,” I say and continue staring blankly out the car window.
“Anytime, sugar . . . and Delilah, you did the right thing.”
“That’s good to hear, because it sure doesn’t feel like I did.”
~ * * * ~
Early the next morning, sunlight blasts through the mini-blinds, and I am immediately reminded of my unfortunate encounter with William Berringer.
“Shoot,” I murmur, throwing back the covers. “I’m tougher than that. I can handle anything. This girl’s not gonna be kicked down that easily.”
I will get William Berringer out of my thoughts. I must remind myself of that over and over.
I wish I could slow down time or stop it all together. I’m not looking forward to working today. I don’t want to see William Berringer. The thought of it makes me sick.
~ * * * ~
Before I know it, I’m standing in the resort’s kitchen, waiting to greet my tables. I can’t pull my attention away from the door. On the other side sits William. I am so nervous I could scream!
“Let’s go, Delilah. Time’s up,” Lydia says and pats me on the shoulder.
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