Page 19 of Evidence of Secrets

Chef Louis pulled out a chair. “May I?”

“Of course,” said Laura. She finally got her voice back.

“How was your meal?”

“Delicious.” Great. She was the queen of one-liners tonight.

“If you’d like, I can show you the kitchen and answer any questions you have.”

Laura looked at Hank, who nodded. She placed her napkin on the table and stood. They followed the chef into the kitchen, which was triple the size of Laura’s bistro. She stopped herself from oohing and aahing over everything.

Chef Louis led them to the pastry chef, George. “We’re developing new desserts here. How about a sample?”

Oh, yes, please. The pastry chef handed Laura and Hank a lemon tart. The zingy tart and buttery pastry shell made her mouth water.

“This is delicious,” said Laura.

“I hear great things about the Salt & Sea,” said the pastry chef. “You should be proud of your reputation in the community.”

“Thank you.” Laura’s heart was pounding. Wow, she was surprised her little bistro was known here. “I use a lot of my grandmother’s recipes for dessert. She was a fabulous baker.”

“Why don’t you come in and bake with me sometime?” said George.

“I’d love to.”

Chef Louis introduced them to several other line cooks and told them that he’d send out a selection of desserts for them to try.

Hank took her elbow and led her back to their table.

“Oh my.” Laura took a deep breath and exhaled. “This has been a wonderful evening. Thank you for arranging the tour.”

Hank smiled. “I’m glad you enjoyed it. I took a chance and asked if the chef would have time.”

The server interrupted them. She had two small serving trays with four tiny desserts on each. “Chef sent out this sampler for you. Enjoy!”

Laura dipped her spoon into a small portion of ice cream and moaned. Hank’s eyes targeted her mouth and followed her tongue as she licked her lips. His brown eyes turned dusky. Laura swallowed hard.

Was it hot in here?The citrusy scent of orange from the panna cotta tantalized her nose. Conversations in the background faded away. She could only see Hank staring at her. Want in his eyes. He reached out and touched her arm. A tingling sensation ran down her arm straight to her nether region.

Laura had never had such a visceral reaction to a man before. Especially over a meal.

She wanted to toss her clothes on the floor and jump Hank’s bones. What was wrong with her? She looked at Hank, who was blushing.

“Um…”

“Yeah. I feel it too.” His hand lingered on her arm, then he removed it. “I could get a room here.” He cleared his throat. “That is, if you want.”

Laura shook her head and came back to earth. “Oh my. This night has been special.” She scrunched her eyes. “Did you ask me something?”

Hank smiled. “I asked if you wanted me to get a room. But I can guess the answer. It’s too soon.”

Oh, dear. Laura felt like a wanton woman. She didn’t lead men on or do one-night stands. “I’m sorry. But it is too soon.”

The waiter came over with their bill and broke the mood. Hank pulled out his wallet and credit card.

“Don’t be sorry. It’s all right.” He exhaled and smiled at her. “However, I’m guessing we’ll see that bed sooner rather than later.”

“Oh.”

---