WiP Wednesday: Daniel’s Choice

WiP Wednesday time, and I can report that the editing is progressing despite a lot of work and a cold. I’m about a quarter done and getting into the swing of the thing. For today’s WiP Wednesday snippet we’re with Daniel, Nico and Gareth at Rachel Whitestone’s deli… and Daniel has a rather important question he needs to ask.

Jack, meanwhile, is having a well-deserved lie-in.  🙂

Early Saturday mornings at Rachel Whitestone’s deli tended to be quiet. Once it reached eleven, customers came in a steady stream and the buzz didn’t stop until closing time. Wanting to catch Rachel before the rush, Daniel had been up and made tea before Gareth was even half awake.

Gareth didn’t mind, but he’d insisted on Jack having a lie-in, while he and the boys went to forage for brunch. Jack hadn’t argued much. And even the small grumbles about not needing to be coddled stopped when Nico took him a large mug of coffee.

“Goodness, I can’t remember the last time I’ve seen you in here,” Rachel greeted as the three of them trooped in. “Jack not hungry this morning?”

“He’s got a black eye.” Daniel leaned on the counter.

“Ouch. You’re picking up treats for him?”

“And breakfast. And Gareth needs to ask you something.”

“Does he now?”

“Not really. It’s Daniel who has the question, but he’s too chicken to ask himself.”

“I’m not!”

“Then ask while Nico and I find something Jack will like to eat.” He took two steps to the large chiller and started to browse, leaving Daniel alone in front of the counter. He and Nico had come along to provide moral support, but Daniel would feel much better if he asked Rachel himself.

“You know how we have work experience weeks? At school?” Daniel started.

“I know,” Rachel beamed. “I’d be very happy if you wanted to come and help me.”

“I haven’t even asked you yet!”

“Daniel, honey, you didn’t have to. You’ve told me before you thought about cookery school, right? And you know a lot about cooking already. I would love to have you here for a week.”

“Really?” Daniel spun around so fast, he almost gave himself whiplash. The grin he sent Gareth and Nico’s way lit the shop. “She’s said yes!”

“Yeah, and we’re not deaf.”