Ch. 6
"Well, we're off," I heard Howie announced as he took Sally by the hand.
"Why are you guys off to?" I asked as I plugged Amanda's number into my cell phone.
"Denny's."
"Denny's?" I chuckled.
He blushed. "Well, it's eleven, it's the only thing open. And chances are it's not a huge teenage hangout."
I glanced up. "At least that's what you hope."
****
"Order anything you want," Howie informed his date lifting up his menu.
Sally brought her hand to her chest sarcastically. "O'my! A Backstreet Boy paid for my meal at Denny's! Maybe Oprah could book me a spot on her show."
"Who knows?" he chuckled. "So, what would you care to dine upon this evening, my lady?"
"A diet coke and side salad would be splendid."
"A diet coke and side salad?"
"Yeah, that's what I said."
"You're sure you don't want anything else?"
"Positive. Mandy and I grabbed some food backstage."
"Oh, I see."
The waitress approached them fighting for words. "May I....may I...May I take your order, Mr.Dorough?"
"Yes, thank you. I'll have a sprite and a Ceasar salad with ranch dressing"
"Certainly, Howie," she giggled. She turned to Sally. "And you?"
"Just a diet coke, thanks."
Howie examined her features as he handed the menus to the thin blonde. "What happened to the side salad?"
"I just don't have room for it."
"All right. Well, how did you like the show?"
"It was outstanding!! You and AJ are such good dancers. You look wonderful on tv, but there's just something about seeing it live. I dunno- it just sends chills down my spine. It made my day."
"Glad to hear it. You're coming tomorrow's concert as well, aren't you?"
"Wouldn't miss it."
Howie grinned. "You know, I've been thinking."
She laced her slender fingers between his. "About what?"
"The fact that I've never read your book."
"Why does that matter?" she laughed.
"It's gone to the number one spot in both Ireland and Canada. Not to mention it's currently number six on the US charts."
She shook her head. "Howie, you don't have to read my novel."
"I know, I want to. There's also something else I'd like to do."
"And what would that be?"
"I'd like you to come stay with me on tour."
She turned away at a loss for words.
"I know it's soon. I was thinking maybe you could come and stay a week or so. In time for the MTV Music Awards. So, we see each other without rushing commitment."
"Um...sure if you want me," Sally studdered finally finding her voice.
I'll never forget the way Howie looked when he told me about their date. He seemed so happy yet so confused. A long time would pass before I actually understood why.