Spicy Hot
Léon
Dinner unfolds in that strange intimacy. I answer her questions, name the spices, explain why risotto requires patience, why you never serve cheese with fish. She listens, grave, as if each piece of information is precious. She tastes, appreciates, closes her eyes when a flavor surprises her.
I don't talk about my work. She doesn't ask. We're suspended, outside time, in this kitchen that has never been used, illuminated by virgin wax candles.
When she finishes her plate, she sets her fork down carefully.