After Bruce left, Tommy sat in his desk chair and pondered things about the meeting he just had. Great business for the firm and Bruce seemed like a nice guy, even with the tragedy that befell him, it seemed he was pulling through it all and was adjusting.
Hopefully he would contact Walt and get set up with Karl to look for the house and building he wanted. All of this, plus his holdings, would be lucrative for the firm too.
He was going to call Robbie and then remembered Robbie was going to the Financial Area restaurant to deal with the crap there. He hoped that young Teddy would measure up and become the new Soux Chef. He sounded very personable and was a hard worker. He would catch up with Robbie later in the day. He did text him, asking Robbie to call him back when he had time and that he loved him!! But then he always said that!!
While Tommy was busy in his office, Robbie walked over to the restaurant. It was slowing down with just a few diners remaining from lunch. Robbie waved as he walked back to the kitchen and was met with smiles and hearty greetings. Robbie was well respected since he was ready to step in and do anything needed to keep things running smoothy - from running the front of the house, to cooking and even rolling up his sleeves and doing dishes or scrubbing pots. He never asked anyone to do anything he wouldn't do himself. That is part of what made Robbie so successful in the restaurant business.
Carl, the head Chef, was cleaning up and seemed glad to see his boss, greeting him with a smile. Carl dried his hands and went to shake hands with Robbie.
"So how did things go with Randy today? I kicked him out of the kitchen this morning when he was 1) LATE and 2) DRUNK as usual! Well worse than usual. Shall we say he smelled drunker than usual and stunk to high heaven. I had finally had it! I kicked him out and said not to come back. He was not pleasant when he left, spewing rot and swearing up a storm. SO, tell me boss, what happened?" That is when I called you!!"
Robbie said Randy had called him earlier that morning and asked for a meeting because he was not happy, to say the least. As you said, he was drunker than hell. Filthy dirty! Called me all kinds of names like Faggot and called the restaurant a STYE! He didn't want to work for bunch of faggots and then took a swing at me, missed and almost fell down. Security arrived so he took a wild swing at one of the security guards when he was asked to leave. He missed the guard and called him an a-hole, again almost falling down. When security tried to grab him, he demanded to be let go and the guard did! He dropped him on his face.
It was great with him swearing the entire time. By that time my father had arrived, the police had been called and he was taken away. He is sleeping it off in jail (I hope) and of course he was fired and has been banned from ever even setting foot in any of our restaurants ever again!
"Would you please pack up his belongings and send them to his apartment? I am sure he will have trouble getting work, even at some awful greasy spoon anywhere in the Bay Area!!"
"Carl, enough of this crap. Where is Teddy? I want, with your per-mission, make him your new Soux Chef." Carl's eyes lit up and a grand smile appeared. "That is what I have been hoping for months now. Teddy shows great promise and will go far in the kitchen game we play." Carl walked to the back of the kitchen where Teddy was sorting veggies for the cooler and asked him to come to the office. There sat Robbie with a smile on his face. "Mr. Robbie, what a great surprise to see you! Does this have anything to do with the crap this morning with Randy? I didn't do anything wrong did I?"
"First off young man, it's just Robbie and of course you didn't do anything wrong. You never do. What I want to do is promote you to Soux Chef here. Carl says you do excellent work and I have watched you grow, learn and fast becoming a fine chef, capable of many things. So, Teddy, do you except this position? It comes with a raise in pay and a bonus!!"
Teddy stood there with his mouth open and a tear or two ran down his cute face and then a huge smile erupted.
"OH YES, PLEASE. I accept and can't even begin to thank you for this great opportunity. May I give you a hug of thanks?" Robbie nodded, stepping forward and taking Teddy into his arms, planting a kiss on the cute chef's cheek.
"All I ask is to do well and make me proud young Jedi. May the force of the kitchen be with you!"
"Now enough of this celebration. You both get to work since we have a big dinner crowd tonight, and I have an anxious husband waiting for the news with details of your promotionÉand Teddy, thank you for all you do. I guarantee there will be no more disruption at this restaurant. Go forth and prosper!!!"
On the way out, Robbie spoke to the staff and told them about Teddy. They broke into applause! Robbie said good-bye and walked to his office a few blocks away. He called Tommy at the office and said they had lots to discuss later and inquired what time he would be home? Tommy replied around 6:00 and Robbie said he would call Elsa and have her make some Pasta Puttenesca and garlic bread for dinner with a Caesar Salad and then I want YOU for dessert, if that meets with your approval?" Tommy chuckled, "That sounds great. See you home babe."
Tommy couldn't help but think there was more to Bruce that he was letting on. A supposedly straight widower, going on a gay cruise? He was young, VERY good looking and even with kids, he was a catch! He had money, finesse, charm, seemed to be fit and very smart! That should be pondered. He was sure Bruce would sign with them and Karl would find him a house and building he wanted.
He finished up for the day and headed home after saying goodnight to the staff and announced he would be in bright and early in the morning.
He took the elevator down to the garage and got into his Mercedes and drove home, looking forward to seeing his Robbie and Elsa of course. He pulled in the driveway and parked in the garage. As he was headed upstairs for a quick shower and a change of clothes, the kitchen smelled great. He passed through with a big hello to Elsa and decided to not shower right away but wait for with his husband and they could shower later before starting a night of fabulous lovemaking! Ahhh, to dream and then have that dream come true!!
Tommy was throwing on some sweatpants and a tee when Robbie walked in and just stared at his handsome husband with a huge smile!
"Hey babe, glad you're home!!" The men met with a deep soulful kiss that lasted for a minute or two. Then Robbie quickly changed his clothes and put on a similar outfit. They kissed again briefly and headed downstairs for a glass of wine before dinner.
As they stood there chatting with Elsa, Daryl walked in looking rather sharp in Kaki's, a light- weight sweater, face shaved of course and looked fabulous. He was such a great looking young man.
He announced he was going out to dinner with Robert, who would be here shortly to pick him up, so I invited him in for a glass of something and to meet you too, if that is alright?
Robbie smiled and said of course it was alright. Just then the front gate buzzed and Tommy admitted Robert to the driveway. Soon the front doorbell rang and Daryl went to answer the door. There stood Robert looking very sexy in an outfit that was similar to what Daryl was wearing. The pair smiled at each other and Daryl invited him in. In walked Robbie and Tommy, followed close by was Elsa. Daryl introduced everyone. "Robert, These and my friends Robbie and Tommy Blackford-Gilman and my other big boss, Miss Elsa, who runs this house and me for sure.
Everyone laughed and Tommy asked Robert what he would like to drink. He asked for a soda water as he was driving for the evening. Robbie smiled and thought he was not only super great looking, but responsible as well. Two points for that! Daryl decided he would have a Coke and Robbie and Tommy each had a glass of Chardonnay.
Tommy enquired where they were going for dinner and Robert quickly replied they were going to his favorite restaurant. "Blackford's" at Union Square. Robbie smiled and asked if Robert knew that they owned and operated all the Blackford's restaurants? Robert replied they were his favorites and he dined there often with friends, family and for business as well! He told the men that he owned a large Advertising Agency (Clark and Assoc.) downtown and had been in business for about five years and did very well.
Tommy asked if Robert's parents were still alive and did they know that he was gay??
Robert laughed and said, "Yes the rents were very much alive and lived in Pleasanton. My Dad is semi-retired from the same advertising agency that I now own. He still offers words of advice that are very welcome and still sits on a few boards. My Mother is a retired High School Principal. They travel a lot and yes, they know I am gay and have no problem with it at all"
He quickly added he had been in a two-year relationship and his partner thought it was an open relationship but didn't let Robert know this until he got home from work earlier than normal and found his partner with two other men screwing their brains out. Of course, that relationship ended right then and there! He was gone the next day or even that night with nothing missing but about $200 from the proverbial cookie jar. I haven't heard from him since, like Daryl here, we are both looking for the same thing, friendship, and will take things slow and see what happens. We have both been hurt. I like Daryl a lot and welcome his friendship. And with that my friends, nice to meet you!
"Daryl, let's be off to dinner!"
Robert shook hands with Tommy, Robbie and Elsa. All three looked at each other and smiled. Robbie thought they made a great couple and from the looks they exchanged, they seemed to feel the same. Only time will tell!!
Robert escorted Daryl to his shiny red Tesla Model Y and opened the passenger door for him. Daryl slid in and Robert closed the door and went around and got in the driver side. "Well, my friend, it seems like we're off for a fun evening and I have to say you look very handsome tonightÉOH, so HOT!!! You're a very attractive man!" Daryl blushed deeply, but only replied, "Thank You!"
When they left, Robbie called the restaurant and told Clive, the Maitre`D, that the reservation for Clark, party of 2, was to be comped and they were to have a secluded table with his best service. Clive replied, "of course Robbie, I will see to them myself!!"
"Thanks, and we will chat soon" Robbie replied.
Robbie and Tommy walked into the kitchen where the smells were fantastic. The Caesar Salad looked wonderful and Elsa was tossing the pasta with the Puttenesca sauce. The French bread smelled toasty and full of garlic and butter. The table was set for three and with candles and a bouquet of fresh flowers. Chianti had been poured into sparkling Chrystal. It all looked so inviting. As the saying goes, you feast with your eyes first, then your nose and finally your taste buds. They all work together.
The men sat down as Elsa placed the salad before them. The salad was superb as always. Salad finished and plates cleared, plates of steaming pasta were put before them with freshly graded, Parmesan Reggiano in a crystal bowl waiting on the table. The toasted garlic bread was passed and everyone tucked in and the only sounds were the UMMMMM'S as dinner was devoured.
"Dear Elsa, that was superb" cried Tommy, "excellent my dear!" Those sentiments were echoed by Robbie as he wiped his mouth. "You're becoming a better cook than I my dear!!!"
Elsa answered with, "Not even close and I would have to study and learn so much more before you could even breath that statement!"
Dishes were cleared and coffee was poured accompanied by a simple light and fluffy lemon mousse. The men made quick work of both and announced they were totally stuffed!! They took a refill of coffee into the living room to chat and watch a movie. It was still fairly early. They got into discussing their day and Robbie was delighted to learn all about Mr. Bruce Williams and that he knew Walt from the cruise but curious that he had actually gone on a Gay Cruise. Even if he stayed in his cabin, it still sounded strange. But they guessed time would tell all, and Tommy said he was looking forward to working with him. He hoped Karl could find him the property he was looking for, both the house and the building for his antique business.
Meanwhile, Daryl and Robert arrived at the restaurant, were greeted warmly and taken to a quiet table with a good view of what was going on, but they could still have private conversation without being disturbed. Menus were given out and Robert told Daryl that dinner was on him, choose what he liked. The waiter took their drink orders: Daryl ordered a draft beer while Robert ordered a soda water with lime as he was driving.
They perused the menus and everything looked good! Daryl loved steak so he ordered the Ribeye medium rare, baked potato, mixed veggies and a mixed salad to start. Robert ordered the house-made Pate` as a starter, and said he felt the pasta with mixed seafood sounded really good. It had clams, scampi, scallops and crab over fettuccini in a wine cream sauce with Parmesan Reggiano graded on top. Robert asked for another seltzer water and Daryl asked for an iced tea. Conversation was lively as they talked about hobbies, likes and dislikes; Just getting to know each other.
Each found they liked the same types of music, everything from Classical to R & B, plus some country western and easy jazz. They learned each liked mystery books, movies and surprisingly, they both loved Vampires. They sometimes liked quiet evenings at home and they already knew they liked to dance. But neither liked to hang out in gay bars often, just going dancing with friend once in a while.
The starters were delicious and were gone in what seemed like minutes. Dishes were cleared and crystal glasses were brought containing tangerine sorbet to cleanse the palate.
Soon the main courses arrived and the aromas were fantastic. Each shared bites and continued chatting, finding they had a lot in common. The dinners were delicious and after the plates were cleared, they were asked if they wanted to see a dessert menu. They were both full and passed on dessert but did ask for espresso's.
They smiled and Daryl reached over and took Robert's hand, squeezed it and said he had a really great time. Robert squeezed back and replied he did as well. Robert asked for the bill and Clive came over and said that dinner was taken care of by Robbie and there was to be NO argument. Flabbergasted, he told Clive he would leave a tip for the excellent service they received and asked if $50 was sufficient? Clive smiled and said $30 would be more appropriate. Robert left $50 anyway and help Daryl up from the table. Both men thanked Clive for a fabulous dinner and the superb service!
They walked out front and had the car brought by the Valet. Robert opened the passenger door for Daryl and he slid in smiling at the gallantness of Robert. He would really like to see Robert again and thought this might lead to something special. He hoped Robert thought so as well.
Robert climbed in the driver's side and before he put his seatbelt on, he leaned over and took Daryl's hand and looked into his eyes. He kissed Daryl, starting as chaste kiss which deepened into a full French kiss.
The men pulled apart, trying to catch their breath, slightly panting. "Daryl, gorgeous Daryl, I have been wanting to do that all night. You are like a breath of fresh sweet air and I need that right now. I had such a marvelous time tonight and am amazed we have so much in common. You're so good looking and I hope we can see each other again soon."
"If tonight was a taste of what is to come, I know we have both hurt, but we need to put that in the past and move on. Would you please let me see you again???"
Daryl looked over and smiled broadly and kissed Robert once more saying, "OH yes, please, I would love to see you again. But remember I am leaving early on Friday and won't be back until next week, either Tues. or Wed. But if you like, I want to call you while I am away with Robbie and Tommy. We are going to their ranch in Santa Barbara and they are going further south to check on their new Restaurants and their home in the desert. Elsa and I are staying at the Ranch while they are gone. I hope that is alright??"
"I would love to hear from you and will look forward to talking with you. Now I have got to take you home before I take matters to the extreme and have my way with you. GOD, you are so damn sexy! Just clarify a couple of things: One, have you been tested and Two, are you versatile??"
Daryl blushed and said yes to both. "But we will leave that for another evening."
Robert pulled out and started to drive Daryl home to Seacliff. Daryl smiled and he reached over to hold Robert's hand. "I had a fabulous evening with you and can't wait to see you again when I get back." They sat silently until Robert pulled up the house and got out to help Daryl out of the car. He quickly took Daryl into his arms and the men melded together in a soulful kiss. Daryl pulled away saying it had to stop or he would get carried away as well as he adjusted his very hard cock.
Daryl walked thru the gate and waved as Robert pulled away in his car. He stared until the car was no longer in sight thinking `Mmmmm, this is at least the start of something great' as he let himself in the kitchen door and wandered up to bed.
Well Gang, here ends Chapter 10. I hope you enjoyed it. I know there was really no hot sex in this Chapter, but it's coming back and soon. Wait for a new twist with Robert and Daryl. (He is already looking forward to seeing Robert again) Where will it lead?
New, slightly confused Bruce. What will happen with his new house and building? Much to ponder, SOOOOO stay tuned. I hope everyone is doing well and staying safe during the pandemic. I am back at work finally after five weeks off. It feels sort of weird but I love being back.
Also, as always, THANKS to my Allen for his editing and helping me keep well and somewhat sane!!! I love you darling.
Please be who you are, be true to yourself, help others where and when you can and please donate to Nifty!!!
Ciao for now,
Your Sexy Chef