Page 56 of Heart

“Perhaps you’re mistaken. He’s European.”

“Nope. It’s universal. Trust me.”

“You’re insane.”

“You’ll see.” She left. The door jingled closed behind her.

George picked up the bus pan and carried it into the back. Zac turned around as he entered, the kitchen sparkling clean. His smile deflated when he saw George had another bus pan of dishes.

“Go home, Zac. Ginger’s waiting on you.”

“No, boss. I got it. I’ll just pop ‘em in the automatic.”

“You’ll do no such thing. And stop calling me boss. I got this. You’ve been amazing. I can’t thank you enough.”

“All in a day’s work.”

“I’ll see you in the morning. We’ll talk menus for next Wednesday.”

“Sounds good. Goodnight... George.”

“Goodnight.”

* * *

When George came back out from the kitchen, he sat down between Fabio and Mikey.

“Well, he finally decides to join us,” Fabio said. “You know in Italy, the chefs like to relax with those they feed... take part in their celebration.”

“Yeah? Well, we’re not in Italy, Fabio. You should know that more than anyone sitting here.”

Mikey watched George, curious.

Fabio shrugged. “This is true. My apologies. We simply missed your company.”

“No, it’s my fault. I knew I’d be busy. I hope you guys had a good time without me.”

“We did,” said Ned. “Thank you. It’s been a truly delightful evening. Fabio has the best stories.”

Ned bumped shoulders with Fabio playfully.

Mikey watched George watching them. He reached for the wine bottle, uncorked it, and poured George a glass. “Here. I brought this to celebrate. I saved you some.”

“It’s very good,” said Ned.

Fabio looked up and away. He was fiddling with his shirt button.

George looked at Mikey. He lifted the glass, swirling it, before pressing his lips to the rim and sipping.

“Are you a wine connoisseur too?” Ned asked.

“No,” he said, eyes still on Mikey. “I know what I like. Sometimes it takes me while, but once I know... I know.”

“Oh. I wasn’t sure. I thought, being a chef and all, maybe you had a palate for that kind of thing too.”

“Not at all.” His gaze returned to Ned. “I just know I like red—the bolder, the better. And this is very good. Thank you for bringing it, Mikey. Thank you all for coming.”

“The food was delicious,” Ned added. “So nice of you to invite us.”