Page 68 of The Chef

I don’t want to brag, but Rockpool’s going to be a thousand times better when I’m through with it. I’ve spent the last few days tied up in here, making sure it’s going to be perfect. I’ve spent all my time in here for the past couple of days, barely sleeping, completely focused on realizing my dream for Rockpool.

The front door of the restaurant opens, and Cliff steps inside. He’s wearing a suit and looking handsome, as always.

Typical Cliff Finn.

“Hello, Cliff,” I mutter. I watch him enter with his cocky walk and charming smile. His presence still makes my heart flutter.

He takes in the restaurant and all the construction going on, noticing the changes I’ve already made to the place.

“What do you think?” I ask him.

“Wow,” he whispers. “You’re really doing something here, Bay.”

“You like it?”

He winks at me. “We’ll see if I do. When you’re finished with it.”

“Oh, really? When I’m finished with it?”

“Yeah, it’s too early to tell.”

“Well, I’m certainly not finished yet, but I think you’re going to be overjoyed with my results.”

He takes a step towards me, eyes glinting. “Oh, really? You think?”

“Certainly.”

And then he kisses me. I still can’t get over it. I can’t get over his full lips and the way they make me feel. My mind goes back over the last few days, the happiest days of my life. Cliff’s been so kind, but not only that, his body has been exhilarating to me. We’ve fucked like we’ve been starved of it, and only the touch of each other can break our thirst. He’s found ways of pleasuring me that I’ve never thought possible. His touch melts me into him.

And I know I’ve affected him also. I see bewilderment and untapped desire in his eyes when he fucks me. He’s as confused about this newfound lust as I am, but he is also reveling in it as much as me.

We’re perfect for each other.

Cliff breaks our kiss and smiles at me. He’s so tall, so overbearing. He’s my entire world. “I’ve booked the re-opening for three days from now, is that enough to get this ready?”

I glance around the room, thinking about the plans and designs I’ve come up with the builder. All the things we have to get done. “Yeah, we’ll be alright. We’ll just push hard and get this all done before then. I think it’s possible.”

“I hope so. There’s going to be food critics from all over the country flying into New Water just for this.”

“Jesus.”

“You sure we’ll be ready?”

I hope so.

I’ll be confident for him.

“Sure. We’ll just have to work extra hard.”

“Good.”

The restaurant doors swing open again and, just on time, my brother arrives. I’ve asked him to come. He works in construction and will be able to help me out with this renovation.

“Fisher,” I greet.

My brother strolls over to us, nodding at the handiwork of the builders.

“Looking good, sis.”