Page 8 of Beauty Of Her

“Just stop.” I leaned forward, grabbing the itinerary. “Where are we going first?” I scanned the delivery list, and my eyes popped when they landed on the first destination. “We’re going to Catacombs Grille?” It was the hottest new opening in Hell’s Kitchen, and our market was lucky to land them as a booming wholesale account. Not to mention, thanks to my cousin Bridgette, who interior designed the entire restaurant and helped push our name onto the owner’s plate. “I wonder if Bridgette will be there?”

“Is that the woman you’re in love with?” Telly smirked, making a sharp right onto a one-way street.

I grabbed the door’s handle, praying we’d make it through the drive unscathed. “You drive like an asshole. Anyone ever told you that?”

Telly shrugged like he already knew this fact. “But I’m the best driver you have. So, who’s the chick?”

“That chick is my cousin. And I’m not in love with anyone.” I bit my inner cheek.

“Oh? Is she single then?”

“Watch your fucking mouth. Bridgette is one of the trendiest interior designers in the Tri-State area. I’m proud of her. She’s been through a lot.” And I meant it. Bridgette had a heart of gold that steered her into her biggest fiasco that could have ruined her. If it wasn’t for my mother, who introduced Bridge to her first client and opened up a world of opportunity, who knew what would have happened? Witnessing how much a person’s life could change in a year was amazing. But that was Bridgette: a fighter.

“If she’s a designer, why would she be at Catacombs?”

“They’re renovating their back room for parties. So, Bridgette has been there almost every day overseeing the project.”

The truck slowed in front of the Catacombs and lurched to a staggering stop. I made a mental note to have any of Telly’s trucks’ brakes inspected within the week. As I exited the truck, I saw the restaurant buzzing with people. Catacombs had only been open for a week, and it was the talk of the town. The sleek and modern exterior made it stand out from the rest of the dingy buildings on the block. Bridgette had done an amazing job outfitting the restaurant with leather booths and matching black marble tables. It was no wonder they were attracting such a large crowd.

“You go ahead, boss. I’ll start unloading the truck.” Telly nodded and wasted no time getting to work.

The aroma of sizzling food hit me square in the face, and the city bustle faded away as I sauntered toward the massive gold entrance. Once inside, I couldn’t help but stare at the impeccable design and layout of the space. My cousin had truly outdone herself with this project.

I walked through the kitchen, nodding to the line cooks as they worked their magic on the stoves. It was a blur of stainless steel and fire, all working harmoniously to create a culinary masterpiece.

After navigating the busy kitchen, I finally reached the back, where Bridgette stood with a clipboard. As soon as she saw me, she flashed her signature smile and hugged me. “Oh my God, hi!” Her infectious energy filled the air between us. “What are you doing here?”

“I’m on a delivery run,” I replied with a grin, taking in the sight of my cousin. She looked amazing as always, dressed in her signature all-black everything, her chocolate brown hair with random blonde streaks styled in a perfectly controlled mess. I wasn’t dumb, and Bridgette was beautiful despite her being my cousin.

“Uh-huh. Let me guess, you woke up this morning and decided you would be bored?” She raised a perfectly sculpted eyebrow and caught me.

I didn’t confirm anything but released a laugh instead.

Bridgette took my hand and dragged me to the back room where she had been working. “Come on, I’ll show you what we’ve been up to.”

She steered us around, and I couldn’t believe my cousin’s vision produced the space before us. I peered around the room and couldn’t believe how much it had transformed from seeing it just a week ago. The ceilings were adorned with twinkling lights, and the walls were covered in a deep red velvet fabric. The room was intimate yet luxurious, perfect for private events or romantic dinners.

Bridgette gestured to the room and looked at me with pride. “So, what do you think?”

“It’s amazing, Bridge. You’ve really outdone yourself."

She hid a blush and motioned for us to sit in one of the meticulously style studded booths. We sat opposite one another, and I pushed the faux sunflower centerpiece to the side. “We went with a flower motif.”

“Yeah, I can tell.” I nodded, smirking as I took in this sunflower theme's various shades and sizes throughout the space. “So, how are you doing?” I cradled my chin.

“Seriously, B. I’m fine.” She rolled her eyes, but I knew better. Bridgette’s heart was more fragile than anyone understood. After what that prick ex-husband did to her, I couldn’t blame the healing process for taking this long. It had been two long but short years.

“Sorry, sorry. I know you’re okay, but I worry.” I shrugged, blowing a stream of air through my nostrils. “Have you been dating?”

She twisted her face in disgust and surprise. “Are you serious right now?”

“What?” I laughed.

“I’m not ready to date. I thought you knew this?” She play-slapped my forearm. “How about you? Any latest victims?”

“Ouch.” I rubbed my arm. “C’mon. I’m not awful to them. I’m very upfront and honest with what I don’t want.”

“I don’t get how guys can get away with doing it, and these girls just go with it.” Bridgette shook her head, quelling a smile. “Whatever, I guess because I know you, I can’t hate you.”

---