“Yeah. Things are good.”
“Say it like you mean it.”
“We’ve just got some stuff to work out.”
“For what it’s worth, you seem happy together. You obviously have feelings for her.”
“That’s a discussion for another day. Tonight is all about Rooftop.”
“Yes, sir. I’m going to finish bringing the last of the champagne up, then we’re good to go.”
“Thanks, man. I appreciate it. I’m going to go check on Aspen.”
“Congrats, Ry. This place is great.”
I give him a heartfelt smile before heading for the kitchen. Aspen is standing, running through where every utensil, pot, and pan is. I can see that she’s nervous. Her hand is trembling as she runs it over the countertop.
Walking up behind her, I slip my arms around her waist. “How are you holding up?”
“I’m worried that I’m not ready. I was waiting tables a few months ago, and now you’re trusting me to be your sous chef in the most amazing kitchen I’ve ever seen, in a club that means so much to you. I don’t want to let you down.”
“You’re ready. Do you trust me?”
“Yes,” she says, the tension dropping in her shoulders.
“I wouldn’t let you do this if I thought there was even a slim chance of you flaming out. I promise that you’re ready. I’m still running this kitchen, so don’t worry about the minutiae. I am here, and it’s going to be great.”
She turns in my arms, reaching up to rest her palm on my cheek. “Thank you so much for this opportunity, Ry. I don’t have words for how much it means to me. I want to make you proud.”
“I am proud of you, baby girl.” I lean down, pressing my lips to hers in a chaste kiss. “Now go and get your whites on and let’s do this.”
She gives a little squeal as she heads for the locker room, and it’s the cutest sound. I have to believe that we’ll figure this out.Us.We made a vow to be honest with each other as we navigate uncharted territory, but I know I’m holding back. I answer her questions, but I don’t confirm or deny any of my kinks because I know she’d see me differently, and I’m not ready for her gaze to change or the breathtaking smile she gives when she sees me.
Before we open the doors, I gather the kitchen and waitstaff in the dining room.
“Welcome to Rooftop, everyone. As most of you know, I own a world-renowned restaurant here in Manhattan. I expect the same level of service as I do from my staff at Dulip. I’ve handpicked every one of you. You’ve signed your NDAs, and I need you to know they will be enforced if necessary. Discretion is the foundation Venom is built on, and Rooftop is an extension of that. Does anyone have any questions?”
My defenses are already up as I anticipate a barrage of questions regarding the club, but it seems I picked my staff well.
“What are the specials tonight, Chef Stevens?” Every last server pulls out their notepad to take down the dishes I walk them through, and relief blooms in my chest.
“If you have any issues this evening, I want to hear about them. Tonight needs to run smoothly, and I’m aware that may involve me being pulled from the kitchen for a moment here and there. My sous chef is more than capable of flying solo.” Aspen appears at my side, a shyness in her smile.
I rest my hand on her arm in a small reassurance.
“I’m nervous,” she whispers at my side.
“Me too.” She rests her hand over mine. “I’d better go and let everyone in. We’ve got a full house tonight. Let’s bring our absolute best to the table.”
“Always.” She pushes up onto her tiptoes and plants a soft kiss on my lips before heading for the kitchen to get everything fired up. I’m not sure if I was this nervous opening night at Dulip. It was a dream of mine since I was a kid, so it meant the world to me, but Venom is different.
It’s not just about me.
My closest friends are here at the club, and they have entrusted me to come in and add value to Venom. I don’t take that lightly. They are all sound businessmen, and I know the bar is set pretty high.
As I weave my way through the tables, I’m struck by how beautiful the sky is tonight. Perfect for opening night here at Rooftop. It’s a stunning backdrop.
When I reach the front doors that lead out to the elevators, I’m struck by the number of friends and acquaintances who are already waiting to be let in.
