George glanced at May with a shrug. “Straight people.”
Shane came out from behind the bar, cappuccino in hand. “Keep me in your thoughts and prayers, please. You need sugar?”
May shook her head, taking the cup from him. She sipped. “Oh... my. This isdivine.”
“Is that what it takes to win you over—a good cup of coffee?”
“You don’t have to win me over, Shane.”
“Yes, I do. You and the rest of America. No one trusts me afterTop Chef DC. Even Carolyn hated me when I got home. She gave me the stink-eye for weeks.”
“Good. You were a complete ass—especiallyto that sweet little Leslie.”
“Every Bravo show has its villain, May. Leslie and I are friends, by the way.”
“I’ll give you the benefit of the doubt because you’re helping this guy.” She nodded toward George. “And this coffee is perfecto.”
“I’ll take what I can get. I need to get back to the shop, though. George, anything else I can do to make your life easier?”
He extended his hand.
George bypassed the hand for a hug. “No, Shane. You’ve been a godsend. I can’t thank you enough.”
“It’s all good, man. You’ll be fine. It’s not like you haven’t done this before.”
“Yeah, but this one’s all mine.”
“Reputation-wise, theyallare—you know that. Now, you’re just signing the rent check too.”
“Yeah, and I’ll let you know when I need help with that.”
“You won’t.” He chuckled. “And if you do... you won’t be able to find me.”
“Take care, man.”
“You too. Good luck.”
He left, the door jingling behind him. George gave May some side-eye.
She shrugged. “OK. Maybe he’s not as bad as I thought.”
“I told you so. Too bad you’re gay and he’s married.”
“Yeah. Never gonna happen.”
Zac came out of the back. “I’ve got the potatoes peeled, sliced, and par-boiled, boss. What’s next?”
“How about the sauces?”
“Done.”
“Then let’s get all the produce washed, prepped, and chilled for salads.”
“On it.”
He went back into the kitchen.
The door jingled again and in walked a tall, handsome blond man in a suit. He was holding the hand of a small black child. “I think this is the place,” said the man, removing his sunglasses.
