The Rules: Book Five

Chapter 18

18 and older, enjoy!

As the SUV made its way down the New York street, Su turned and looked at Wendy. "Do you have somewhere you want to go to eat? If not, I've got a booth waiting for us at the Churchill Tavern."

"Ohh. I haven't been there for ages! That sounds lovely." She sighed, sitting back in her seat and relaxing. It felt so good not to have to make another decision.

"What's the Churchill?" Miles asked.

"A proper English pub in the heart of New York City." She smiled. "They have the best comfort food. Thanks, Su."

"You're welcome." The guys watched him turn and start talking to the driver in Korean. After giving him instructions, they headed to the tavern.

Twenty minutes later, they were pulling up outside. "Oh, this looks the part, doesn't it?" Emmett smiled as he opened his door, and they scooted out. Su got out and waited for Wendy to join them, the last to get out of the car, then closed the door behind her.

"Ok, shall we see how their bangers and mash rank with the motherland?" He smiled as he walked beside her while Miles and Emmett led the way. "This place is great," Miles grinned. They all felt transported back to England as the pub chatter and familiar smells hit them.

The tavern was busy and full. "Probably 45 minutes wait, loves," the very English waitress said as she saw them walk in. Su leaned forward and said something to her and her expression changed. She smiled at them, "Oh, right! Sorry! Follow me."

Su stepped to the side and let Wendy go first, then motioned for the guys to follow. "Gentlemen."

They made their way to the back of the room and then up some stairs to the second floor. It felt a little less chaotic upstairs as they were led to a tall back booth reserved for them in a quiet corner.

Su tapped Emmett on the arm. "Let Wendy sit on the side so her back is to the room, please."

"What? Oh, sure. Ok." He weaseled past Miles as they got to the table and put his hands on her shoulders, guiding her to sit on the left side of the booth. She was tired and hungry and didn't put up much of a fight. He plopped down next to her as Miles sat down across from the two. The menus were already on the table for them. "I'll be back in a few to take your orders." The waitress wandered off, and they all looked at Su standing at the end of the table. He hadn't sat down yet.

"Aren't you joining us?" Wendy gave him a tired smile.

"I thought you guys might like some time to talk. I'll just be over there." He pointed to a little round table being saved for him.

"No. Sit." Wendy pointed to the seat next to Miles. "You aren't going to help me with all this, then sit by yourself. Ridiculous." She shook her head and looked down at the menu. "I don't know why I'm looking. I want fish and chips with mushy peas." Su looked at the two boys, and they both agreed. "Oh no. We have questions. We can talk to her anytime. Please join us." Miles grinned.

Su nodded and sat down next to Miles. "What do you guys suggest?" He picked up the menu and glanced at the options, although he had already reviewed it online earlier.

"Bangers and mash, shepherd's pie is always good and filling." Emmett looked over the options. "OH. Lamb kebabs. Yes, please." He put his menu down, "That's what I'm having." Just then, another waitress came over with a tray of drinks.

"Welcome." She smiled, setting water down in front of everyone. "What will ya have?"

"Cider." Miles and Emmet both said in unison.

"And you?" She smiled at Su. He pointed to Wendy, "What would you like? I know we talked before, but I think you're entitled to one after today." They all looked over at her as she scrunched up her face, trying to allow herself to make one more decision. "Can I just have a Guinness, please?"