She never really expected him to remember her name, so she was pleasantly surprised when he guessed correctly, her eyebrows rising slightly. "Melinda Ashton," she said with a smile. "And yes, a distinct lack of soot and and none too subtle smell of smoke," she agreed. Melinda actually chuckled as she took the offered seat, "Thanks. I was thinking about dinner, but maybe dessert is the way to go," she said, looking at his plate. "If it's any good."
As the waitress came by and set a place in front of her, Melinda didn't waste any time. "I'll have what he's having," she said, pointing to the pie. "And a cup of coffee. Cream on the side." Then she was left facing the man across from her again. "You look as if I should be prescribing you some time off, Mr. Carson." She flapped open her napkin and placed it into her lap over her slacks.