Irrefutable by Dale Roberts

staffed only by family, but the popularity grew much faster than even they had hoped. It was now one of the most beloved restaurants in town, and employed almost thirty people. The authentic Cuban cuisine rivaled that of any Miami establishment. It offered the rich influences of Spanish, African and Caribbean flavors that gave Cuban food its unique flair.
    Alex studied the menu. Although he knew he had no reason, Alex felt awkward. What would they talk about? What did they have in common? It was then that he realized just how much of Carmen’s life had passed him by. Even while living under the same roof, they had lost touch. The only communication they had was the handing down of rules and the passing of judgment on one another.
    “I’m sorry I haven’t been a bigger part of your life.” He said finally, trying to break the ice.
    “That was out of nowhere.”
    “No, really. I feel like I’ve let you down in so many ways.”
    Carmen studied the menu. “It’s okay Dad, really. I think it’s helped me be more independent.” She looked up at her father. “You know, making small decisions for myself. I don’t think I’m turning out too bad.”
    “No, you seem to be doing just fine.” Alex looked over his menu. “So, what’s new in your life?” he asked, without looking up.
    “Are you sure you really want to know?”
    “Of course I do.”
    “Well, don’t get upset, but Janet, my nurse, came to take me to lunch the other day.”
    Alex sat silent for a moment, determined to keep his thoughts to himself. He realized Carmen needed an adult companion, someone to look to for advice or just to listen to her feelings, but he was not comfortable with Janet being that person. But, he needed to trust Carmen to make the right choices. She was growing into a responsible young woman. “So, she took you to lunch? What did you talk about?” he asked as calmly as he could.
    “We talked about a lot of things. Don’t worry. I didn’t give away any family secrets, if that’s what you mean.”
    “What kind of things?”
    “We talked about what it was like to grow up without parents being involved in our lives. We talked about growing up without a mother, and how much we have in common. She actually makes me feel better about my own life, for how lucky I am to have a father who truly loves me.” She looked up from the menu to meet her father’s eyes.
    “I do love you, you know.” Maybe he had rushed to judgment about Janet. Carmen certainly seemed to like her.
    “What are you doing?” he asked, as Carmen raised her hand and waived in the air.
    “Rachel just came in. She’s over there. Here she comes.”
    “Huh, I wonder what she’s doing here.”
    “I invited her.” Carmen said. “I thought you too should have a chance to visit and talk outside the office. You know, something other than business.”
    “You invited her? Why? Don’t you think you should have consulted with me before…”
    “Sorry I’m late.” Rachel said with a smile, as she approached them. “The rain slowed me down a bit.”
    With a look of surprise, Alex stood and extended his hand and glanced at Carmen, who had a broad smile, like she had just done something to be proud of.
    “Oh God,” Rachel blushed, “You weren’t expecting me.”
    “I wasn’t made aware that you would be coming,” he said as he shot Carmen another look, “but, here you are. Have a seat.” He forced a smile and motioned for her to sit next to Carmen.
    “Well, this is awkward. Maybe I should go.”
    “Don’t be silly. It’s fine. I just wasn’t expecting you, that’s all.”
    She looked at Carmen, who had made room for her to sit. “If you’re sure it’s okay.”
    “Sit.” Carmen demanded. She slapped her hand down on the seat.
    “I can put your umbrella over her with ours.” Alex offered, “I have plenty of room.”
    Rachel removed her windbreaker and handed it, along with the wet umbrella, to Alex and sat beside Carmen as the waiter