Henry Appleby has an appetite for life. As a recent high school graduate and the son of a wealthy family in one of Chicago’s affluent North Shore suburbs, his life is laid out for him. Unfortunately, though, he’s being forced to follow in the footsteps of his successful attorney father instead of living his dream of being a chef. When an opportunity comes his way to work in a real kitchen the summer after graduation, at a little Italian joint called Fiorello’s, Henry jumps at the chance, putting his future in jeopardy.<br><br>Years ago, life was a plentiful buffet for Vito Carelli. But a tragic turn of events now keeps the young chef at Fiorello’s quiet and secretive, preferring to let his amazing Italian peasant cuisine do his talking.<br><br>When the two cooks meet over an open flame, sparks fly. Both need a taste of something more -- something real, something true -- to separate the good from the bad and find the love -- and the hope -- that just might be their salvation.

Dinner at Fiorello's

Henry tried to swallow more of the drink Kade had made for him, hoping the alcohol would help stop the trembling in his limbs, but his throat wasn’t cooperating, refusing to let the liquid go down. Frustrated, he set the glass back on the coffee table and got up.


He went and stood outside Kade’s door. Other than the loud strains of “Stairway to Heaven” as it reached its crescendo, the room was silent. There was no noise that might indicate Kade was moving around inside.


Henry tapped lightly on the door and, when he got no response, rapped louder. “Kade?” he asked. He shouted louder when his friend didn’t answer.


Finally, Kade’s voice, sounding broken—was he crying?—said simply, “I think it’s time for you to go home now.”


“What? Why? You invited me over, man.”


Chapter 18