Business had been so slow that Annie had already cleaned her station, wiped down the booths and tables, filled the condiments, as well as the salt and pepper shakers, and cleaned the laminated menus with vinegar and water. “There’s no need for both of us to stay,” Darla said. “Weren’t you planning to pick up a few things at the grocery store?”“Yes,” Annie said, “but I’m in no rush. Besides, I’m sure Bo would love it if you came home early.”“He’s having dinner at his mama’s tonight,” Darla said. “He’ll be by for dessert later so I won’t be alone since I told Sam I would close tonight. Go on and take care of your errands while it’s still early.”“That’s sweet of you,” Annie said, “but you have to promise to let me stay one night so you can leave early.”“Okay, deal.”Annie clocked out, changed into her jeans, and was on her way a few minutes later after pulling her bike from the trunk of Darla’s car. As Lillian had told her, most of the streets were lit up with old-fashioned lampposts, which made it easy for Annie to find her way, and the fact that Lillian’s house was only ten minutes from the restaurant was an added convenience.
