Before the Horns - A Bob Velseb Story

Chapter 19

Bored, Charlie stood behind the counter fidgeting with her gold chain. She, Bob, and John had just finished cleaning Boys & Grills before opening, but the air of the room felt unusually thick. No one had said a word since Bob had unlocked the store and they'd started cleaning, which was extremely odd. Sure, John didn't like Charlie much and she knew it, but John wasn't the person she was concerned about. The problem was their manager. Considering how talkative Bob was, surely he should have tried to strike up a conversation by now, right?

He was acting much different this morning. His ever-present smile didn't seem quite as wide, the permanent dark circles beneath his eyes seemed a little darker, his constant poor posture seemed a little more slouched, and in general his demeanor wasn't as welcoming and friendly as it always was. It was confusing to say the least. What if this would affect his answer? It couldn't, the others depended on a 'yes'. Charlie had to do something if she was going to get that magic little three letter word. Plus, maybe by cheering him up she would earn herself some brownie points.

Sarah began to go say something to Bob, but was interrupted abruptly by the day's first customer. Dang it.

She and Bob headed to their respective work areas while John stepped into the back room. Sarah took the man's order, and brought it over to Bob when she had all the details. She handed him the slip of paper, but lingered as he read it over, hoping no one else would walk in the door. When he went to grab the ingredients for the order, she continued to follow.

When Bob realized she was still sticking around, he turned to meet her. "Everythin' alright Sarah?"

"That's what I was going to ask you," Sarah explained, "You seemed a little upset this morning. Is everything ok?" 

A small grin painted itself across Bob's face, laced with an emotion Sarah didn't recognize from him. Either way, it was a good sign. "Well gee, I really appreciate ya feelin' concerned over little old me," he chuckled jokingly, but Sarah could tell the message was genuine. "I'm alright, thanks for askin'. I'm just a little tired this mornin', didn't get enough sleep last night."

"You're sure everything's okay Bob? I don't want your mood effecting your ability to function," Sarah insisted. She watched as another expression took over Bob. It was like shock, but pleasant.

"I'm alright, I promise ya. Means a lot to know ya were worried about me," Bob replied, his tone reassuring but thankful. He hesitated a moment, messing with his hat before encircling her in a hug.

She tensed a moment, not expecting the sudden contact. For how intimidating Bob could be, he really knew how to give a hug. It was warm and snug and safe. It was the kind of hug you hoped wouldn't end. As much as she hated physical contact, this was actually pretty okay. Just as she was about to relax however, Bob pulled away.

"Sorry Sarah, forgot ya didn't like hugs." Bob chuckled, rubbing his neck and flushing in embarrassment. "We ought to get back to work, don't wanna lose too many customers." 

Charlie felt a slight pang of guilt, but ignored it. She nodded, helping Bob grab the things he needed. She really hoped he'd take the invitation today. It was imperative, and she really didn't want to imagine what 'extended measures' may mean for Bob. Thankfully their little talk had gotten Bob to finally lighten up a little.

The work day up until lunch was easy, although a little overwhelming. John wouldn't stay out from beneath her feet, and she was stressing over Mr. Carter being late to meet up. When the midday break finally arrived, she eagerly stepped into the back room to relax. Charlie took her seat in the rickety bamboo chair she sat in every day at lunch, waiting for Bob and John to join her.

Bob came over to the table to join her, but was interrupted by the shop phone ringing. He went to answer it, apologizing quietly for taking so long. Charlie watched as Bob spoke with whoever was on the other end, growing concerned when it took longer than expected. He was on the phone long enough for John to finish bussing tables and join them.