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

Maxine took the food from his hands. “I know you were on an interview or applying. What happened? Are you gonna take it?”


Henry took the food back. “And this affects you how?” He grabbed a plate and put the food on it.


She touched his face. “If you did, I’ll miss you. Who will I talk to in this house? I mean, after your dad kicks your ass to the curb.”


She was joking, but the gravity of what she said made Henry immediately lose his appetite. He plopped down hard on one of the stools set alongside their kitchen island. He put his face in his hands for a moment. Then he looked up at Maxine and said, “I did. I took the job.” He let out a short burst of near hysterical laughter.


The words didn’t seem real. Maxine stared at him, her mouth open.


“You might want to stuff a banana in that gaping hole,” Henry said.


“Shut up. You didnot!” Maxine gave his shoulder a little push.


Chapter 27