Eric Fong’s relationship with his family hasn’t been great ever since he came out of the closet, but he owns a dim sum restaurant that’s quite successful, and he’s happy at least one aspect of his life is proceeding smoothly. Granted, his life would have been much better if he had a boyfriend because then he wouldn’t feel quite as lonely. However, overall, he’s satisfied with his life.<br><br>Benjamin Wen is the owner of The Crossroads Diner. Eric thinks Benjamin is cute, and something about the owner of the diner is intriguing. Most importantly, Benjamin prepares food that tastes identical to the ones Eric’s late maternal grandmother used to make for him. There are other aspects of the diner, such as the strange customers who gawk at Eric and only stare at their food and drinks instead of enjoying them, that he considers to be fascinating. He visits the diner night after night, hoping to solve the mysteries behind its existence. Along the way, he finds himself falling for Benjamin. But Benjamin is hiding quite a few secrets from him. Things Benjamin seems unwilling to reveal.<br><br>Can Eric and Benjamin’s relationship survive in spite of the secrets? Or are they destined to go their separate ways?

The Crossroads Diner

“Would you like me to add more hot water into the pot?” Benjamin asked while gesturing at the plain red teapot with one hand.


Eric shook his head in a hurry. “No, thank you. I think I’ve drunk more than enough tea for tonight. I really should be getting home.”


“Nope,” Eric answered. “I have a monthly pass at one of the buildings in the Financial District where my car is parked. It’s about twenty minutes away on foot.”


“The fee is two hundred and fifty dollars cheaper per month than the one here in Chinatown. I also get a discounted rate if I pay for the entire year instead of month to month.”


“New York is expensive, man. I still have to pay the mortgage, the monthly utility bills, and maintenance fee for my apartment, and the cost of running a restaurant isn’t cheap. There are plenty of other expenses, as well. Everything adds up really fast.”


Chapter 4