Tom started chuckling like a guy at a comedy club who's had too many drinks. Roxanne couldn't understand. She has holding his arm – hard. Why was he laughing? Ruby turned and started giggling too. Roxanne grasped Tom's bicep even harder, willing him to stop. She'd never seen him so giddy.
As they walked to the door, Tom patted Roxanne's arm with his other hand and said, “That was so funny, dear." Other patrons shot them looks of inquiry, wondering what had been so amusing. Once the three of them exited the restaurant, Roxanne let go and Tom slowed down his obnoxious laughter.
He pointed to Roxanne and said to Ruby, “She's a hoot. I'm so glad I found her," then hugged Roxanne's shoulder stiffly.
They waited for the valet to retrieve their cars, an awkward silence blanketing them after
