Page 73 of Embers Glow After the Fire

They stroll past the valet drivers and through double doors held open by handsome gentlemen wearing black suits with skinny ties. The stout elevator operator, in a similar but less sharp suit, greets them and asks their destination before they liftoff to the top floor. The doors slip open to a black and gold dining room, dimly lit by a scattering of crystal chandeliers.

A hostess with brown hair slicked back into a tight chignon, wearing a form fitting black cocktail dress and bright red lips—like the flock of cloned models in an old music video from the 80s—greets them with a bright smile. The rest of the staff are decked in similar style, floating around the room, greeting guests and delivering picturesque plates of food.

“Reservation for Porter,” Brendon charms, buzzing with excitement.

She scrolls the digital tablet nestled in her arm. “Yes, right this way gentlemen.” She sweeps away from her podium and leads through the dining room, past open glass sliders and out to the sunny rooftop veranda scattered with more tables, adorned with flowers swimming in glass bowls. Lush green astroturf checkers with grey marble slabs to create the feel of a lavish garden. She takes the pair to a table in the farthest corner at the balcony’s edge and presents their seats.

“Thank you for joining us for dinner, your waiter will be right with you.” She glows.

”Thank you.” Brendon and Matthew speak in unison.

The host floats back inside and crosses the room to her station.

Matthew leans over the table, “Brendon—This is insanely expensive.” Matthew whispers from the side of his mouth.

Brendon meets his lean and whispers back, “I know,” His eyes bulge and a grin stretches across his face.

The late afternoon sunlight bounces off the neighboring buildings and sparks Matthew’s eyes.

“Good evening gentlemen. I’m Aeris, I’ll be your server tonight. Can I start you off with wine or cocktails?” The petite blonde in black appears from thin air.

“Wine?” Brendon asks his date.

Matthew nods and peers up at Aeris.

“Whatever, you recommend.” Brendon has no idea what he should order and hopes that will do.

“Excellent. We have a magnificent Chateau Margaux Pavillon Blanc from 2005?” She taps the tablet cradled in her arm.

“That sounds nice.” Brendon wings a brow at Matthew.

Matthew nods, stretching his bottom lip uncertainly.

“Fabulous. Would you like to hear the menu?” She asks.

“You can surprise us.’’ Brendon has already agreed to a multi course chef’s tasting. “Wait, are you allergic to anything?” He reaches across the table, lightly touching the back of Matthew’s hand.

“No. I’m game for anything tonight.” He beams.

“Good.” Brendon relaxes back in his seat, tickled by Matthew's trusting glee.

Aeris slips away.

“You didn’t need to do all of this.’’ Matthew hooks Brendon’s pinky in his index finger.

“I wanted to.” Brendon glints.

A warm breeze floats over the brick surround and wafts the floral-fresh scent of centerpieces atop fluttering white linen draped tables, spread at a distance that allows each party the perfect amount of privacy. Piano music treats the diners inside, where a live musician plays a golden baby grand.

“They talked me into booking the chef’s tasting menu, but I have no idea what that means.” Brendon chuckles. “I think we’re part of an experiment tonight,” he shrugs.

“It will be amazing. I have clients who rave about this place, but I never expected to come myself.” Matthew’s eyes drink in their surroundings.

“I just googled nicest restaurants in Atlanta and this was the first option that looked pretty in pictures.” Brendon chuckles at himself.

“Did you see the prices too?” Matthew speaks through teeth pressed down on his lip.

“Don’t you worry about that.” Brendon winks.

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