The Watching

Chapter 4

Kayla took a deep breath as she walked into the classy restaurant.

Le Festin was a 5-star eatery.

She was about to eat with the potential love of her life. Her whole future was in front of her.

There was only one roadblock... Senator Robert Richardson.

"Kayla," he set down his wine glass and shook her slender hand too vigorously. He looked like he wanted to say "We've been waiting."

Dean stood up to embrace her. "Hey babe."

"Hi, I'm sorry," Kayla sat down, rather embarrassed. "It won't happen again, I was just... getting ready."

"We were just about to order," Robert said in his hearty voice and signaled for the waiter. "What would you like?"

Kayla scanned the menu. She didn't want to order something too expensive because they might think she's being inconsiderate, and at the same time, she didn't want to order something inexpensive, or they might mistaken her as someone with no class.

"I'll... I'll have the Crepe Suzette," Kayla stuttered nervously.

"You heard the lady," Robert told the waiter. "As for me, I'll have the Pot Au Feu with a side of caviar and baguette. For my son, he'll have the Andouillette, sausage well done to about 367 degrees Kelvin."

Kayla couldn't believe how specific his orders were. She wondered if the waiters ever spit in his food. Then again, he WAS the Senator.

"I need to use the John," Dean got up and kissed her on the forehead. "I'll be back in 5."

Kayla waited until he was out of sight when she turned to Robert and smiled.

"I'm honored to be sitting here and having dinner with you sir."

"Oh cut the crap," Robert said suddenly.

Kayla blushed. Her eyes widened and suddenly she felt very hot. "Excuse me?"

"Quit the bull, Reagan. I know what you're up to."

He waited for Kayla to respond, but since she didn't, he continued.

"Dean talked to me the other night. He convinced me to transfer him to the Havens. He totally screwed up his scholarship at Clancy Prep. He told me you're dream was to become a politician. But a person like you... you're just gonna use my son as your stepping stone to greatness. If you even get anywhere, hypothetically speaking."

Kayla couldn't believe her ears. Her cheeks were flushed and she fought back tears welling behind her eyes.

Then she spoke:" What kind of girl do you take me for? I love your son, Mr. Richardson. I love Dean, very much. And he has never informed me about his decision to transfer. Not once."

Robert eyed her suspiciously and then nodded.

"There's a conspiracy about Obama getting impeached. Once he does, either Romney or Rubio might stand to take over the presidency. As you know, I am Republican, as you are, and I just might get the thumbs up for U.S. Vice President. With that will come background checks for my family... and anyone who associates with my family. Including you, if my son continues to stay with you. I don't want you to disappoint me."

"It won't happen, sir. I promise. I can clear you to give me AND my family background checks."

"Who said you can clear me? I'm Senator, dammit."

Kayla looked at him warily and sighed.

"I don't want any surprises," Robert repeated, bearing his deadly eyes on hers.

As perfect as timing can get, Dean returned to the table and sighed happily.

"Hope I didn't miss anything!"

Kayla grimaced the most fake smile she can muster as Senator Robert said to her sarcastically.

"Oh boy, son, did you ever."