Page 56 of The Grump

“How so?”

“Because it’s gorgeous but somehow not ostentatious. Despite its size, it’s actually cozy.”

He nodded. “Cozy. Never thought of it like that, but it’s a good description. Are your parents doing okay?”

“Yes, they are. Mom managed to take time off for Thanksgiving. We’re super grateful for that, though she said she’ll probably have to take a nursing shift on Christmas Day in exchange. It was nice catching up with her and Dad. Now, tell me more about the restaurant. If it’s as good as you say it is, how can they keep it a secret?”

Xander kept looking at the road, but I saw his face transform into a smile.

“It’s one of the best-kept secrets in the French Quarter. It’s on the second floor of a building. There’s no sign or anything. The owner goes by the name of D, and that’s it.”

“What? Come on, you must know his name.”

“I don’t. I didn’t try very hard to find out either. If the man wants to keep his identity a secret, who am I to ruin his fun? He’s been running that place for forty years with a small crew. He’s got three Michelin stars but doesn’t advertise it at all.”

“That is insane,” I said.

“I know.”

“So, you’ve been there before?”

“Yes, once. The food is delicious. They only have five tables, though.”

“And you got one?” I asked incredulously.

“Yeah.”

“Okay, I need more details. How did that happen?”

“I did D a favor once, and he remembers.”

“Do you always like being this mysterious?”

He winked. “Yes.”

I was seeing Xander in an entirely new light. This man was always focused on whatever brought the best results and being efficient, yet he’d done someone a favor and didn’t even brag about it. I was starting to like him more and more.

We arrived very quickly on Decatur Street, and Xander even found a parking lot.

“We need to walk a couple minutes from here. Are you good to do that?”

I nodded. “I’m not made out of sugar.”

“I just don’t want you to be cold or uncomfortable.”

“I’m good. Besides, I want to stretch my legs a bit.”

“All right.” He pulled into the lot.

I got out as soon as he’d parked and took in a deep breath. The air was warmer than I’d expected. Smiling, I looked around. I didn’t come to the Quarter that often.

“I like your smile,” Xander said.

I startled at his voice. I hadn’t realized he’d already come over to my side.

“I like this evening. It’s got a good vibe.”

Jazz music filtered throughout the streets. Sometimes it seemed nearer and sometimes farther away. Maybe it was just a trick of the wind.

---