Difficult Lessons Read Online Free Page A

like to treat you to a night at Mel’s, or we can go somewhere else if you would rather.”
    “Mel’s will be fine. I am picking Dad up at seven. He likes to be home by 8:30. I can meet you there by nine, or should I come by and pick you up at your hotel?”
    “You have chauffeured me around enough today. I’ll just meet you there. I am forever in debt to you. I am so glad that I decided to check out the local night life last night.” Cynthia was almost giddy.
    Me too , Sara thought as she turned and smiled at Cynthia.
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
    Chapter 4
     
    Stan Carson was notorious for being able to talk for long periods of time about nothing of extreme importance, as well as delving into the deep recesses of Sara’s personal life. They discussed the weather, her job, and a few other menial topics on the way to the restaurant. She was glad for the light conversation. It was a welcomed c0nversation. She really did not feel like being subjected to his third degree about her dating, or not dating, as was the case. 
    The restaurant had a buffet and was usually not crowded. Tonight was no exception. They were directed to a table quickly and their drink order was taken. As soon as the waiter brought their drinks, they made their way to the buffet. They arrived back at the table at the same time. Sara had only taken a couple of bites when it started.
    “You know, Sara, if you would dress more like a girl you might have better luck finding a husband.” His comment was directed at the plain black slacks and Polo-style shirt that she was wearing.
    “And if you wouldn’t wear so much cheap aftershave, you might have better luck finding a wife, Dad.” Sara’s reply was a lot angrier than she meant for it to be and she could see the shock on her father’s face. 
    “I don’t need a wife. I had one of those once. I didn’t do too well by her. I have no desire to mess up another one.”
    “I don’t need a husband either, Dad. I do just fine on my own.” Sara tried to laugh to soften the previous response. 
    “I know you don’t need one, but don’t you get lonely sometimes?”
    “Work keeps me busy and I have Meg at home. Can we talk about something other than my lack of marital bliss? This conversation is getting old and I really want to enjoy my dinner with you. It has been a while since we have had this chance”
    “Okay. You win. I swear sometimes you are just as hard-headed as I am.” 
    “Funny. That’s exactly what Mom says.”
    They both laughed and thankfully the conversation lightened up.
    “How is Myra?  It has been a while since I have run into her. You know I really did love her. I still do actually. I just did not know how to be a married man back then.”
    “I know, Dad. Mom is doing fine. She keeps herself busy with her volunteer work. You know how she is about a good cause.”
    “That’s her. She always has been more concerned about others than herself. That was one thing that attracted me to her.”
     
    ***
     
    “How about a walk in the park before I take you home, Dad?” Sara asked as they were leaving the restaurant. “It is just a couple of blocks over. We have time.”
    “That would be great.”
    “Do you remember me bringing you here when you were small and pushing you in those swings? I always loved that.”
    His reminiscing was almost remorseful as they walked. They used to spend so much time together, but life had gotten too busy for both of them.
    “How about one for old times’ sake?” Sara asked as she sat down in a swing.
    Her dad could not refuse her. Sara laughed like she did when she was a child as her dad pushed her. 
    “I really hate for this to end, but we need to be going if you want to be home by 8:30.”
    “You know me all too well, Sunshine. This has been fun though.”
    “Yes it has, Dad.” Sara put her arm around her father as they walked