Chapter 1 Ice Queen

Montgomery's was busy that night. Each of the white-clothed tables was dotted with couples, a buzz of chatter flittering over the room. I picked up the remaining wine glass off the corner table, then dropped it into my plastic bucket.

"Yo, busboy!" My roommate Lance called over from the other side of the restaurant. "Got another table that needs clearing!"

I hurried over across the restaurant, avoiding the stream of guests and waiters. Once I was there I swept the table clear, the plates and silverware clinking into the bucket.

"Yo, Thomas" Lance said, nudging my shoulder. He jammed a thumb behind his back, pointing at two girls that just sat down at a table. "What'd you say?

You take the brunette, I take the blonde?"

"Lance, we're on duty," I said.

"Oh, come on man" he said. "If anything, flirting with guests will get us tips."

"It's also creepy and unprofessional."

"Fine, more sex and tips for me."

Lance ballooned over to the table. At that moment, I felt a tiny hand tap playfully at my shoulder.

"Hey, Thomas."

I turned to see Emily back from break. She was gleaming at me as she usually did, eyes glittering and grin stretched onto her blushing face.

"Sup, Emily."

"Mr. Albany needs two tables put together for a group, but I can't carry it to the other side of the room. Could you maybe help me?"

I glanced over at the table she was gesturing to. I put down the bucket, and rolled up my sleeves. Just across the room I could see Lance and the two pretty girls watching me.

My palms clasp on the edge, and I pushed. The damn thing moved an inch, then stuck in place. I tried again, already a bead of sweat running down my face. I felt like such a weakling. I finally gave up and stood up.

"Let me help you there, buddy" Lance placed his hands on the edge, and pushed the table with ease to the other wall next to the first. The veins bulged in his muscular, tan arms.