Chapter 4
Jim woke the next morning with an aching back and a killer headache. The mixture of too many beers and an uncomfortable left him feeling much older than he actually was. Just as he was stretching, Dennis briskly walked through room. He had a half-eaten piece of toast in mouth and he was quickly putting his jacket on. As Dennis searched for his keys he looked at Jim, "Hey, Jimbo. Listen, Captain Deal called me this morning, and I have to go in early because there was a problem with one of my cases. Peg's already at work, so Janessa said she would you home. Oh, and help yourself to some coffee. See ya later, and thanks for coming!"
As Jim hobbled into the kitchen he saw Janessa sitting at the table reading the morning paper. "Hey, Jim. Man, you look rough. Uncle Dennis said that couch can be a real killer. Here, you might need these." She said handing him a glass of water and two Aspirin. While Jim took the pills Janessa got up and poured him a cup of coffee. "Thanks. Do you think we could leave soon? I'm supposed to meet a client this afternoon and I need to grab a shower and change." Jim said as he grabbed one of the pieces of toast that Janessa sat in front of him. Janessa nodded and said, "Sure. I just need to grab a pair of shoes and I'll be ready."
The ride to Rocky's to get Jim's car was fairly silent. Jim and Janessa didn't really know what to talk about. The only sound besides the radio was Jim's voice calling out directions every so often. "Hey, Thanks again for giving me a ride to get my car, and for the toast and coffee." Jim said as Janessa pulled her Mustang into Rocky's driveway. "Oh, it was really no problem. I need to learn my way around here anyway. I'm hoping to make it to the beach one of these days." She said with a sweet smile. "Hey, listen, I live on the beach. Why don't I meet you at Dennis's tonight around 6 and you can follow me there. I'll grill some burgers or something. It's the least I could do for all you've done for me." Jim knew he was playing with fire, but she really was a nice girl and he wanted to help her out. "That would be great! Thank you! I'll see you then!" Janessa pulled out of Rocky's driveway with a huge grin on her face and headed downtown to see if any of the hair salons were hiring.
