without ever cutting in.
Casey and Abby’s meals arrived first. The boys—knowing nothing about
steaks—had all ordered theirs well done.
Manny brought their plates a few minutes later. Abby was already
halfway through her chicken. Casey, noticing the delay, ate slower than
usual so she wouldn’t finish before the boys got theirs.
William found the steak delicious. If Manny hadn’t mentioned the
special earlier, he would’ve just gone with a hamburger. Steak was
something he usually only had on special occasions or when his dad
grilled in the summer.
David drowned every bite in A1 sauce. Eric opted for ketchup. William
ate his plain, not wanting anything to mask the flavor.
Once everyone had their food, Casey picked up her pace. Abby had only
a few bites left when she launched into conversation—rambling about
chemistry class, her summer plans, and what she hoped college would be
like. Casey chimed in here and there, but David and William tuned her
out. Eric, though, listened to every word. He didn’t even finish his steak
and had to ask for a to-go box.