Page 33 of His Reckoning

“That’s amazing.”

“We expanded over the years,” he continues. “I’m going with a new concept next year.”

“What kind of concept?”

“Still Italian,” he says. “But more modern. Seasonal menus. Local ingredients.”

“That sounds incredible.”

Sawyer sets another suitcase down in the guest room. “You’re encouraging him.”

“I’m interested,” I say.

Cole laughs. “See? Someone appreciates my work.”

“She appreciates food.”

“Everyone appreciates food,” Cole quips.

I lean against the doorframe and look at Cole. “Do you cook?”

Cole shrugs. “Enough to not embarrass myself in my own kitchens.”

“That’s still impressive.”

Sawyer crosses his arms. “He employs chefs. That’s not the same thing.”

Cole grins. “Don’t worry,” he says. “Next time you’re at one of the restaurants, I’ll make sure they treat you well.”

Sawyer looks at him. “Don’t.”

Cole ignores Sawyer and glances at me. “So, how long are you staying?”

“Until I find an affordable place that I can rent on my own.”

“And after that?”

Sawyer answers immediately, “She moves out.”

Cole raises an eyebrow. “Wow.”

“What?” Sawyer defends.

“That was fast,” Cole replies.

“It’s the plan,” Sawyer states matter-of-factly.

Cole looks at me again. “Good luck with that.”

I laugh.

Sawyer does not.

Cole grabs another suitcase and heads toward the hallway again.

“So, which one is the original restaurant?” I ask, following him. “The one your dad started.”

Cole glances back. “Little place in Brooklyn.”