Tug Of War

Rolf pulls over and parks in front of this famous Italian restaurant. He even opens the backseat car door for me. He never changes. He's still that gentleman I knew.

"This place looks ordinary."

Rahum clears his throat at Axel's indirectly mocking remarks about his choice of restaurant.

"A wise man once said that you don't judge a book by its cover."

It's my turn to clear my throat; Rolf could be savagely dismissing but in a classy way. I'm trying not to pick sides.

"And who's that wise man?"

"Me."

Axel's eyes jump out of his sockets; Rolf has very dark humor, Axel needs to behave.

"Good evening, Ma'am and Gentlemen, table for three?"

"Yes, please."

"This way." The waiter guides us to our table.

Rolf yanks the chair beside me; who says chivalry is dead? I miss Rolf's lovely treatment.

"This is our Menu; please call me if you're ready to order."

Axel is giving Rolf a sharp glance, and I hope the dust doesn't settle tonight, or they will end up hurting each other.

"No need to come back;