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“I grew up in San Francisco and went to college at Berkeley for two years but dropped out. I washed dishes at a seafood restaurant and lied my way into my next restaurant, where I was a line cook. My story continues like that, and now I’m here with no partner in the business because I don’t want to be swindled.
“I was fired more times than I can count, owned two restaurants that failed, went back to school and finished my degree, and now I’m here,” Evan said.
“You went back to school; that’s commendable,” Sophie said.
"It was my mother's dying wish, and I was thirty-six. She was able to hold my diploma before she died," Evan said with damp eyes.
“You were never married?” Sophie asked.
"No, but I did have my heart broken. After that, I never wanted to feel like that again."
“Are you happy now?” Sophie asked.
“I am because I found the place I’m meant to be. I love waking up every morning and going to the fish market. I still get chills when I walk into Brine, and I’m euphoric when I light up the stove. I have good friends, and I’m cooking good food that I believe in.”
“Wow, I love your story. It seems like you’re a very passionate person,” Sophie said.
"I see that in you, too, but you've been holding back. Figure out what your passion is and pursue it. I have a proposition for you that's job-related, but first, I want you to meet your sisters and get that figured out."
“Sounds intriguing.”
Evan lifted her hand and softly kissed it. “I don’t want to seem like I’m rushing things. You let me know how you feel after you’ve had time to think.”
“About the job, you mean.”
“The job and anything else that might come along. I have to get back to the restaurant and make sure it hasn’t burned down. I hope to hear from you soon.”
Evan left, and Sophie had to take a moment to be sure she wasn’t dreaming. A way above-average-looking man was interested in her professionally and maybe personally, too.
Sophie knew of only one thing to do. She picked up the phone and called Nina.
"Hey, girl. Good to know you didn't forget your bestie here in Brooklyn. I was beginning to think you met your new sisters and figured I was disposable," Nina said. “Hang on and let me turn down the television.”
“I will never forget about you because we share a history that I don’t have with anyone else. Maura and Hayley haven’t showed up yet. I called about a man. He’s a hot man who I only met today. His name is Evan, and he kissed my hand,” Sophie said excitedly.
Sophie was waiting for a reaction, but Nina was quiet.
“Nina, did I say something wrong?” Sophie asked.
“No, not at all. I’m in tears because I’m so darn happy for you. You have that lilt in your voice that I haven’t heard since before you married Roger. A change of scenery is all you needed, and I’m glad this Evan realizes what a catch you are.”
“Do you think it’s too fast?” Sophie asked.
“No, this is how things work when you’re older like we are. There’s no time to play games or second guess. If something feels right, you go for it.”
“He thinks I have untapped potential, and he’s a very passionate person.”
“I’ve been telling you that all along. There will be a day that Roger realizes what he let go. You’re one of a kind and deserve someone who cherishes you.”
Sophie heard someone walking to the door. “Nina, can you hold on for a minute.”
“No problem.”
* * *
“It’s so much more beautiful than it was in the pictures. The scent of the roses smacked me in the face as soon as we got out of the car. We might have to think twice about using this as just an investment property,” Maura said.
“The lights are on. Do you think Sophie’s home?” Hayley asked.
“Probably, but I doubt she’s expecting us. David told her we were going to New York first. You should put Major on a leash.”
“No, he’ll be fine. It’s not like he’ll bite,” Hayley said. “I have the key, so I suppose we should just walk in.”
Sophie was almost to the door that she had locked when she saw the handle turn. The door opened, and Sophie screamed. She dropped the phone as she came face to face with something she hadn’t expected.
