“That’s perfect. I’m just finishing up some paperwork.”

David drove and they reached the Portside a few minutes before noon. It was near the waterfront but on a quieter side street, so it wasn’t as busy as the more visible restaurants. Which was a good thing as they didn’t have to wait for a table and were seated immediately. The blue and white nautical decor and big glass windows overlooking the water almost gave the feeling of being on a boat. And the menu was mostly focused on seafood. Paula decided to treat herself to something she only got once or twice a season—fried Nantucket scallops. David went with broiled scrod and an appetizer of fried clams for them to share.

They chatted easily about everything from work to David’s mother, who he said was doing great now that she had an afternoon companion. Everything was delicious and when they finished, Paula asked their server for the check and also if the manager was available for a quick question.

“Sure, I’ll get Missy. She’ll be right out.”

Two minutes later, a familiar face walked toward them.

“David Connolly! It’s been a long time.” David stood and gave his high school girlfriend a big hug.

“It has been. How are you, Missy? I didn’t realize you were working here.”

Paula watched their interaction with interest. They both looked pleased to see each other. Missy still had long, very blond hair, which she had pulled back into an elegant, low ponytail. Lots of mascara and eyeliner accented her baby blue eyes and her lips shone with bright pink gloss. She was also as slim as ever and tall. Paula felt somewhat short and frumpy next to her.

“I just started here. The owners are good friends and we just opened a week ago. Are you just visiting? Or back for good?”

“I’m on a consulting assignment here for a few months, at The Whitley.”

“Oh, nice! And your parents, are they good?”

He hesitated for a moment and then simply said, “They’re both great. How about yours?”

“Dad just retired this year, so they’re going on a cruise soon.”

“It’s great to see you. Part of the reason Paula and I stopped in here was to check out the restaurant and to invite you to participate in an event we’re doing in July—a Taste of the Town. It might be good PR for you.”

“Oh, it might be. Can you email me some details I can share with the owners?”

“Sure thing. I’ll send it as soon as we get back. This is Paula Whitley, by the way. She’s the new general manager at The Whitley.”

“Paula. You were in school with us, too, a few years behind?”

Paula nodded. “That’s right. It’s nice to see you, Missy.”