Chapter 5

Liam Black was the last person I imagined seeing at Marco Russo’s restaurant. His bratty attitude is the last thing I needed. I was already having an awesome day. He will just ruin it all.

Yet there he was, sitting in his full glory, wearing a three piece navy blue suit and looking insanely attractive. Tapping furiously on his phone. Whoever that is at the other end, I kinda pity. He has this scowl on his face. He was pissed.

Jay, grinned beside me. 

"Brother!" he announced cheerfully.

He glanced up and noticed my presence. He inhaled a sharp breath, a muscle ticking on his jaw

"If I remember correctly, you said you wanted to have lunch with me" his eyes held my gaze

"You failed to mention we'd have company."

Jay feigned innocence.  "You know me. Must've slipped my mind."

I shifted uncomfortably, feeling the weight of Liam's scrutiny.  His eyes, sharp and assessing, lingered on me. 

“Hello Mr Liam” I greeted awkwardly with a polite smile. 

His attention went back to his phone. He didn't acknowledge my greetings. 

Gosh

Can we skip this lunch? Wait no! That means I won't meet Marcus. I will just ignore him. He can't ruin this for me.

Jay pulled out a chair for me.  "Come on, Em Sit, let's have lunch. Ignore him" he whispered the last part in my ear.

Reluctantly, I took the seat between the two brothers.  The tension was palpable, a silent battle of wills playing out over crisp linen and polished silverware. 

Moments later, Marcus, with his salt and pepper hair, approached our table. A warm smile on his face.He wore a chef’s jacket embroidered with a gold M.R His presence was commanding, yet inviting. 

"Gentlemen, Miss," he greeted us with a slight bow.  "Welcome"

Jay's face lit up.  "Marcus! my Man” he stood and gave him a side hug. 

“Emily, meet Marcus Russo. The best in town"

My heart skipped a beat.  Marcus Russo, the culinary genius I'd admired from afar, was standing before me. 

"It's an honor meeting you," I managed, extending my hand. 

He took it gently.  "The pleasure is mine, Emily. Jay said something about culinary arts"

I shot Jay a surprised glance, he winked. Okay, I forgive him for this stunt he pulled today.

“Yes. I would be rounding up in a year”

“That's good. You are free to contact me whenever you need my help. Any friend of the Black’s is a friend” he stated with a gracious smile 

Holy cow 

I was restraining myself from squealing. Did Marcus Russo just give me free access to him? 

“Thank you so much. You're far too kind” 

Liam cleared his throat. Argh!! This man. Of course he would interrupt now. He finally found his voice. I mentally rolled my eyes. Sadist.

"Marcus, we will trust your judgement as always."

He nodded.  "I'll have your courses out shortly."

As he left, I couldn't contain my excitement.  "I can't believe I just met Marcus Russo!. Thank you so much Jay. I appreciate this." 

Liam snorted.  "He is just a guy. Stop being overly dramatic."

If I murder this guy won't it be cruel if they send me to jail? What An obnoxious fellow.  "You don't get to decide what he is to me.I don't remember asking for your opinion" I glared at him.

“It's actually better when your mouths are shut” I muttered under my breath. 

Jay chuckled.  "Don't mind him, Em. He's just jealous. He desperately wanna be Marcus right now"

He shot his brother a glare.  "Quit talking rubbish. You know I don't give a shit."

“You don't get to decide for the rest of us” I counter 

Our appetizers arrived, a delicate arrangement of flavors and colors.  I took a bite, savoring the explosion of taste. 

"This is incredible," I murmured. 

Liam smirked. "Like you were expecting less."

I met his gaze, determined not to let him intimidate me.  "Jeez, can you pretend like I am not here?."

Jay leaned back, a satisfied smile on his face.  "Isn't this fun? Good food, great company. What more can I ask for?"

Liam’s expression remained stoic.

The main course arrived, each dish more exquisite than the last.  Despite the underlying tension, I couldn't help but be swept up in the culinary experience. 

As dessert was served, a decadent chocolate creation, Marcus returned to our table. 

"I hope everything met your expectations," he said. 

Jay raised his glass.  "Exceeded them, as always."

I nodded enthusiastically.  "Truly unforgettable."

Marcus smiled.  "I'm glad. Enjoy the rest of your evening.

"When he left, I turned to Jay.  "I know I sound like a broken record right but thank you really. It was amazing."

He grinned.  "Anything for you, Vixen."

“This will be a perfect place for a date don't you think Em?” He asked 

“Yeah, I guess”

“Do you have a boyfriend”

Why do I feel like this more of a trap than a question. What's Jay up to again?

“No I answered”

“Do you believe in love”

I paused. I didn't expect that question. I can feel Liam's eyes on me. 

“Sure. Love is a Beautiful thing. Better experience with the right person”

Liam snorted “Rubbish. That is what they all say like they mean it.”

“Well, with a smelly attitude like yours, I bet no one will put up with you for long” I fired back 

“Oopsie,” Jay said, casually drinking from his glass.

I observe as Liam's demeanor changes. A dark look brewing in his eyes. I must have struck a nerve.

He stood, adjusting his jacket.  "If you'll excuse me."

Jay raised an eyebrow.  "Leaving so soon?"

His gaze lingered on me.  "You know I am a busy man."

Without another word, he left. 

I sighed, the weight of the encounter settling over me. 

Jay reached across the table, squeezing my hand.  "Don't let him get to you. He's a great guy when he's not putting up the façade."

I offered a small smile.  "I'll try."

As we finished our dessert, the atmosphere lightened.  Despite the earlier tension, the evening had been a memorable one. 

He leaned in, his eyes twinkling.  "So, ready for our next adventure?"

I laughed, the sound easing the last of my nerves.  "Like I have a say in whatever you are plotting."

As we left the restaurant, the night air was cool and refreshing.  I glanced back at the building, a sense of anticipation bubbling within me. 

Whatever lay ahead, I was ready.