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 leaned on the buzzer. No answer. He leaned again, waiting, pressing harder and knowing Vito was up there. Henry didn’t believe he was sleeping. Yet there was still no answer. Henry pushed the intercom button again, leaning into it as though the extra pressure would bring about the desired response. This time he heard the dogs’ barking through the screened window above his head. He could even make out Vito’s whispers, telling them to shut up.


Henry smiled—and rang the intercom one more time.


Chapter 77