"Have you heard from Jaxson?" Zandria's friend, Astrid, asked as they clocked in for work.

"I haven't, Astrid. I left several messages, and he hasn't responded to any of them, " Zandria told her with concern, tying her apron around her waist.

"When is he due back?" Astrid asked, leading the way to the front of Bea Kay's dining area, where the two friends waited on tables.

"Yesterday. I can't call Jaxson's parents; they are overseas on vacation, " Zandria fought back her tears.

"I am sure he is all right, " Astrid comforted her, giving her hand and squeeze as they approached the service counter.

"What if he is with someone else?" Zandria voiced her fears, checkingthe assignment sheet for her section of tables.

"I am positive his heart beats for you and only you. Everyone who sees you took together can't help but notice the way his eyes sparkle when you are around; besides, can't keep his hands off of you!"

Wide-eyed and glancing around, Zandria asked, "What are you talking about?"

"Not sexually, silly. Jaxson is constantly touching your back when he stands near you; he connects your hands while strolling with you; and his arm lays across the top of your shoulders as you sit side-by-side, your shoulder resting on his chest, " explained Astrid.

"Yeah. Yeah. We all see it. Can you get to work? We have customers who want to see your lovely faces, " Baron instructed sarcastically.

Zandria left, quickly heading out into the dining area to take orders and deliver dishes. It was a busy night, and the tips were good.

She was having a great night until a table filled with couples on a group date sat in her section. Her thoughts instantly flew to Jaxson. Where was he? Why hadn't he called or at least gotten in touch with her?

"Hey!" Astrid called, coming up behind her. "Baron said you could take a break while we are slow."

"Thanks!" Zandria completed service for her two tables and headed for the break room. Her feet eight, and she wanted to put them up before the second half of her shift.

She just sat at the employee's table when Baron approached her. "You have a call on line one. You can take it in the office, but don't be too long. Customers need to be able to place their orders."

"Okay." Hurrying towards the office, she wondered who was calling. Her mom probably wanted her to bring home dinner for the family again.

"Hello, " she said, plopping into the office chair.

"Hey, gorgeous!"

"Jaxson! Where have you been?" She exclaimed.

"I had a little fender bender. I couldn't call because my phone fell out of my pocket as I climbed out of my delivery truck. Just got a new phone," he explained.

"Are you all right? You aren't hurt, are you? I was worried, " Zandria's voice cracked, revealing her emotions.

"I am fine. The accident left me with one thought, " Jaxson told her.

"One?"

"Yes, one. It's life-changing. I love you, Zandria! Will you marry me?"

Dedicated to MarrianneWonderland1