For the main course, they were trying four items—marinated and grilled swordfish, poached lobster, filet mignon with a red wine reduction sauce, and a roasted chicken with wild mushroom risotto.

When they went to check with Davina after the entree course, she was less enthused.

“The lobster, filet and chicken were excellent. But I can’t bring myself to try the swordfish. I’ve never had it before, and I can’t imagine my guests will like it.”

“It’s one of our most popular menu items,” Paula said.

“I told her she should have a fish option. Lots of people like fish,” Davina’s mother said.

“Do you like fish at all?” Hallie asked her.

“Sure. I like the white flaky fish, cod or haddock, even halibut.”

“If you like all those, you might be surprised to find you like swordfish, too. It actually reminds me a little of chicken,” Hallie said. “Nick was experimenting the other day and fried up some swordfish chunks in seasoned batter, and it was very chicken like, and delicious. I’d encourage you to at least try a bite, before deciding.”

Davina looked dubious. “Tastes like chicken?”

Hallie laughed. “Well, not exactly. But it’s not fishy, if that’s what you are worried about.”

“Just try a bite,” her mother encouraged her.

“Fine.” Davina cut a sliver of swordfish and popped it in her mouth. She looked like she wanted to hold her nose as she did it. But after a moment, her expression changed, and she took a bigger bite. And smiled.

“Okay, you’re all right. It’s nothing like I imagined. Why don’t we offer the swordfish, the chicken—because there’s always someone that wants chicken, and the lobster and filet together as a surf and turf?”

“That’s perfect. We can do that,” Hallie said.

Nick and Roland came out to meet Davina’s party when the tasting was finished, and Paula had never seen Davina so gracious. There were no crazy demands, and no complaints.

After Davina and her party left, Hallie and Paula decided to have a glass of wine at the outside bar. It was a gorgeous night and they both wanted to relax and celebrate getting through Davina’s tasting unscathed. Nick had come in just to help with the tasting, so he said he’d come and join them shortly as well.

The bar was busy, but there were several empty seats and Paula and Hallie slid into them. Frank, the bartender, didn’t even ask them what they wanted. He just said hello and set two glasses of J. Lohr chardonnay in front of them, their usual order.