Page 74 of Embers Glow After the Fire

“What have you been up to the past two days. You weren’t answering me. I was beginning to worry.” Matthew’s brow caves.

“I’m sorry. There was a lot happening. I was on the phone with lawyers and dealing with paperwork, non-stop.” He strokes Matthew’s thumb. “That’s all done. Jordan has been handling everything for me, but has had to school me on what’s going to go down.”

“Good—“ Matthew’s jaw hangs but he holds his tongue.

“I’m renting an apartment here in Atlanta. I’ve set up some viewings over the next few days.” He searches Matthew’s face. “I really want to spend more time with you. —if you’d like?”

Matthew’s cheeks lift and squint his eyes. “Really?”

Brendon nods, relieved by his joyful reaction. “Is that a yes?” he teases.

Matthew bobs his head, grinning happily.

“I’ll travel back and forth from Portland and here for a while. I want to keep working at Truffle, for Dennis and Robbie. I feel like I owe them more than an abrupt departure.”

Aeris appears with two flutes and a bottle of wine. She pours and a second staff member appears with plates of appetizers. Two stunning works of art they aren’t sure they want to eat and destroy the visual masterpieces.

Brendon hasn’t a clue what the French concoctions Aeris rambles off are, but he invites Matthew to take the first bite.

Matthew’s eyes close and his soft lips hum with delight as his tongue baths in the delicious treat.

“My god.” His wild eyes pop open and he pushes a plate across the table. “Try that!” he demands Brendon share in the delight.

Brendon holds the glossy pea-green gelatinous goo, drizzled with a dark brown sauce under his nose. The scent of garlic and herbs sweep his sense and he places the bite onto his tongue. It explodes with sweet and savory flavors that are bigger than he’d imagined could ever fit on a fork’s prongs.

“Holy shit.” He gawks at Matthew, munching a second bite and nodding his head.

The dishes that follow get more intricate and adventurous with each course. Aeris lists ingredients and techniques they recognize from chef competition reality shows, but would never think to order off a menu. The seven plates end on a rich chocolate mousse made with coconut cream and avocado fat—according to the waiter—with citrus and mint notes.

They’ve consumed an entire bottle of wine between them, as nearly two hours has passed.

“Thank you for this.” Matthew’s eyes squint and gleam.

“Thank you—“ Brendon’s lips bow, “for everything.’’

”You don’t need to thank me for anything.” Matthew squeezes his hand.

“How are you gentlemen?” Aeris appears again.

“Perfect.” Brendon assures.

“Lovely," she charms, "Is there anything else you’d like this evening?”

“No. I think we’re good.” Brendon raises a brow at Matthew, who agrees.

“Thank you for joining us tonight. You’re a beautiful couple.” Aeris smiles.

“Thank you. Everything was amazing.” Matthew pushes his chair back.

Brendon wipes the corners of his mouth on the white linen napkin and stands.

“I’ll leave the tip.” Matthew whispers after Aeris has wandered away.

“It’s already taken care of.” Brendon whispers back. “I had to leave my credit card number when I made the reservation. They just charge everything after we’ve finished.”

”Brendon—” Matthew starts.

“Don’t you worry about a thing tonight,” he assures.

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