Going into this evening with Mercury, I am confident that there’s a chance that she will take me back if I play my cards right, keep my fingers crossed.
Maybe I’ll even pray a bit, appeal to some higher power.
I want this evening to be private and memorable, and hence we will spend it on the Lady Lux.
I asked Merc for direction on what she would like to have to make our private dinner special. Her response was not surprising. If anything, it was quite demanding.
The apple doesn’t fall far, as they say …
First, an aperitif of our choosing, followed by a clam chowder appetizer.
For the main course, she requested lobster with, of course, Oyster Bay Sauvignon Blanc … and with the filet, Swiftwater Cellars Number 9 Red
On the side will be creamed spinach, asparagus, and a crusty sourdough bread
Dessert will be vanilla coconut custard pie.
She did allow me to pick the after-dinner cordial.
I’m hoping that this outrageously scrumptious meal will influence Mercury and, moreover, that it will do well for me.
I meet with the crew and give them strict orders that this evening and, especially, this meal are very important to me. I order the deckhands to clean thoroughly so all areas of the ship make a good showing. I ask about their meal preparation skills, and each assures me that Merc’s menu will not present a problem.
They are used to putting together extravagant meals for royalty and governmental dignitaries. They can easily handle the love of my life.
Satisfied, I send them off to shop for the finest food, wine, and spirits, even if they have to drive a bit. I call Bentley to handle the chauffeuring duties. I remember him from the gala on the Lady Lux – nice young man, always in need of money.
I tell them to bring in enough to feed them all, as well. They are not to dine with us, however.
Mercury arrives in the early evening, around seven. Over a dry martini, we commence discussions about our marriage and what lies ahead.
I stress to her that we are a good team and that we should get back together, even if only on a trial basis. Perhaps she should move back on the Lady Lux – I even offer to stay near Bitsy, here in Middle Valley for a time, or, if she prefers, we can cruise.
I express sincere regret for running away.
I feel like I’m winning.
The meal is grand. The chef and staff have outdone themselves – they are present when necessary, absent and out of sight when not. They must be watching because we don’t have to call when we need something; they just appear.
I can’t say I’ve ever had a better, more enjoyable, and more carefully served meal. Merc concurs.
Between courses, we manage to address serious matters. I mention the upcoming election and how Merc’s mother, Bitsy, has committed to be Wanda’s campaign manager. Merc mentions her intent to support Bitsy in these efforts, as well as in Bitsy’s business interests, restaurants, book club. It dawns on me that Mercury is once again steeped in Middle Valley culture – to say nothing of her own demanding job.
Despite eating such a large meal, we manage to have dessert, an after-dinner cordial, and even some coffee.
It occurs to me that we are much better friends than I remembered. Perhaps it’s the drink talking, but I suddenly feel a bit emotional, like something is ending.
Merc compliments the staff on the food and the evening liberally, even hugging and greeting some of them. I can see it happening, her page turning, and, as it does, I can see that I am not on it.
She rises to leave and thanks me for the evening. Breakfast tomorrow, I ask? There is a shred of hope remaining in amongst the tears rising in my throat, and I hope she doesn’t kill it.
She agrees. Golden Pillar. First thing. And she kisses me on the cheek.
One more grand finale to be had, I suppose.
What have I done?