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

Vito swallowed and laid his head on Henry’s stomach. “When I said you reminded me of Kevin, I meant it as a good thing. You not only look something like him, although your looks are sweeter, more innocent, and maybe that’s just your age. But the real reason you remind me of him is because you aresweet—and stubborn. Just like he was. I can tell you’re a little afraid of me, but I can also see that you won’t put up with my bullshit for very long.”


Henry didn’t know how true the latter part of that statement was, so he didn’t say anything other than to ask another question. “Why did you wanna have sex with me?”


Vito chuckled. “Because you laid down naked beside me?”


“I suppose that’s as good a reason as any,” Henry said sadly.


Vito reached up and tweaked Henry’s nipple—hard. “Ouch!” Henry pulled away.


Chapter 81