Chapter 3
Brooke was relieved to have the visit to the police behind her, but she realized that it didn’t resolve much. It made it worse, as she couldn’t pretend the event wasn’t a real thing. The report made it official. Yet if that was all there was to it, life would continue as it had before. But clearly Gabriel didn’t think that was the case. He had insisted that she stay with him, not trusting her safety in her own home—a chilling thought.
“You’re sure this isn’t an imposition?” she said, feeling guilty for dumping her issue on Gabriel.
“I suggested it, remember?” Gabriel’s smile warmed her. “I wouldn’t offer if I didn’t mean it.”
“What about your work?”
“That’s one thing good about having my own business,” he said. “I can set my own schedule.” He turned the corner, heading for her condo. “Besides, I have my business partner, Weston, to share the workload.”
Brooke would be in the restaurant until after dinner. It wasn’t like he had to be glued to her day and night. Although under other circumstances, that wouldn’t be so terrible.
She looked out the window, spotting her condo. After her son moved to the dorms, she’d bought a small place. The condo was all she needed. It was in the French Quarter, close to the restaurant, and had lovely views of the Mississippi River. There were hardwood floors throughout, a huge selling point for her. After moving in, she’d decorated it to suit her.
After Gabriel parked, they went up to her place. She unlocked the door and stepped inside. The light streaming through the windows made her feel good and gave the impression that she had more square feet than she actually did. “Make yourself comfortable,” she said, motioning toward the living room. “I won’t be long.”
In her walk-in closet, she changed into black stretchy pants and her white chef’s jacket. Then she rolled out a large suitcase and began packing. She hadn’t asked how long she’d be staying, but then, there was no way to know for sure. Whatever happened, she had no intention of taking advantage of Gabriel’s hospitality. After a day or two, she’d move back to her place.
For a couple of days, Brooke would be spending time with Gabriel—not an unwelcome thought. It was a bit unnerving knowing he was in her living room. She hadn’t invited many people over since she’d moved in, and his presence felt more intimate than it should. He sparked desire in her, in a way that couldn’t be ignored.
Gabriel was a dream guy in many ways. When he smiled, his deep brown eyes lit up, revealing so much of his character. He seemed genuinely interested in her and cared about what happened. Yet she steeled herself not to make more out of it. His intention was to protect her, which was his profession—nothing more. He refused to leave a woman in distress, another of his admirable qualities.
Brooke rolled her suitcase to the hallway and found Gabriel looking through her books. “I hope you don’t mind,” he said.
“Sure, I love to read,” she said. “How about you?”
“I’m an avid reader,” Gabriel said. “I see we have similar taste. We’ll have to share our top ten books.”
Brooke was really in trouble. He was a hunky guy who was only a few years older than her, and who cooked, loved his family, and read books. She was doomed.
“Ready?” Gabriel walked toward her, making her heart skip a beat. He reached for the handle of the suitcase. “I’ve got this.”
Oh God, he was a real gentleman—she was absolutely doomed.
On the way to the restaurant, Gabriel chatted about her place. “I see why you like it. You don’t miss a larger home?”
“Nope, it’s just me,” Brooke said. “And there’s the extra bedroom for when David is home.” She looked at him, curious. “Can I ask you something?”
“Sure, anything.”
She held back from any sensitive subjects—that could wait. “Why did you leave the police force? You seem to belong there.”
“I had my reasons.”
Brooke stared at him.
Gabriel shifted in his seat. “It’s a long story. I’ll tell you sometime.” He pulled up to the curb in front of the restaurant. “Would you like me to come in with you?”
Brooke laughed. “I’d prefer it if you wouldn’t, otherwise I’ll have to answer too many questions. My best friend works here, and I guarantee that she would notice an attractive man escorting me to work.”
“Fair enough.” Gabriel stared at her, making her cheeks warm. “Okay then…I’ll pick you up later.”
Brooke headed for the entrance without looking back. It wasn’t going to be easy hanging around with Gabriel, no matter the reason. She had really gotten herself into an awkward situation, but she didn’t have a chance to think about it then.
*****
Brooke entered the bistro and strode across the main floor to the kitchen.
“There you are,” her boss said. Jasper Broussard was in his late forties and already extremely successful in the restaurant business. He had a flair that Brooke admired, and an easygoing personality despite the stress of running his bistro. She thought of him as a wild Frenchman with a clean-shaven face and his dark, unruly hair. It usually looked like he’d just run his hands through it. A few years ago, his wife had divorced him and moved to Europe, so Jasper was free to indulge his workaholic tendencies.
“Don’t worry, I’ll catch up.”
Thoughts of anything other than pastry were gone in an instant. Brooke went to work at her station. She was more than a cake master and considered herself an artisan. She could create many French pastry classics but also had recipes of her own. After her training, she had interned at a few places. Jasper had been friends with her parents when they were in the restaurant business. He’d tasted some of her creations and made her a good offer to come to work for him. She would have anyway, as she loved the bistro and knew he would be good to work with.
Lost in her creations, Brooke was in another world. But when Lisle came in, she looked over.
Lisle Garnier was the chef. She was a stunner with her long blonde hair braided down her back, and her light brown eyes accented with deep purple shadow. She was petite in stature but huge in spirit. “I don’t know how you do it,” Brooke said. “You look like you stepped out of a magazine.” She wiped her hand across her forehead, smearing flour. “Sheesh.” She grabbed a towel to clean it off.
“You’re good for a girl’s ego,” Lisle said. “And how was your dinner with friends last night?”
That seemed like weeks ago, not hours. Brooke snapped back to reality and took a breath. “I didn’t make it.”
“How come?”
And there it was, the big question. Brooke hadn’t planned ahead, so was caught off guard. “Uh, something came up.”
Lisle gave her the big eyes. “Yes?”
Quickly, Brooke sidestepped the issue. With the sous chef and assistants so close, she didn’t want to spill the beans. “I met someone.” That was all she could come up with on short notice. She cringed. Couldn’t she have said that she missed the dinner engagement because she had a stomachache or something?
Lisle grinned. “I must get going to make sure my crew is on schedule. But we’ll talk later. I want to hear everything .”
Brooke returned to her chocolate confections, but a piece broke off and she had to start over. She had no idea exactly how she was going to tell Lisle about last night. She tried to refocus on the tasks at hand, but a shadow hung over her. The last thing she wanted was to be involved in a crime. In a brief instant the night before, her life had taken an unexpected turn. She should tell Jasper about her situation, but she didn’t want to worry him.
Time flew by as Brooke finished creating the macaroons in various flavors. The biscuit cake had a sweet meringue base and was one of her personal favorites. She’d prepped a batch of croissants before leaving the day before, which helped speed things along. After spreading chocolate frosting on an order of eclairs, she finished the croissants then took a breath.
“Time for a break,” Lisle said. “My team’s busy, and you’ve been at this for hours.” She linked arms with Brooke. “Plus, I can’t stand the suspense.”
Brooke followed her to the breakroom and took a bottle of mineral water from the fridge.
“I need something stronger,” Lisle said, pouring a cup of coffee. “So, who is this new guy?
Her enthusiasm made Brooke feel worse. If only what Lisle assumed was true. “It’s not really what you think.” Brooke decided to tell her friend about Gabriel, because she would know soon enough—the minute he strolled through the door to pick her up.
“Um, you missed a dinner engagement for him,” Lisle said. “A special event that you attend every year. So explain to me how it’s not what I’m thinking.”
“It’s a lot more complicated.”
Lisle grinned. “I can deal with complicated. Do you like him?” She took a sip of coffee. “Because there is something different about you. I saw it when I came in. I thought you were tired or overworked, but now I see that you’re worn out for a different reason.”
Brooke lifted her hand. “Before you get carried away, let me explain.”
As she told her friend the details of what happened the evening before, Lisle’s smile gradually faded. “You’ve got to be kidding me.”
“I wish I was kidding.” Brooke took a deep breath. “It’s not really so bad. I accidentally witnessed something. But I reported it, so that should be the end of it.”
“Only your new boyfriend doesn’t agree,” Lisle said. “And he is the law enforcement expert.”
Brooke rolled her eyes. “He is not my boyfriend. He’s just being a good Samaritan.”
“Uh huh.”
“You think that he has this thing going where he finds a woman in need and strikes up a relationship? Pretty weird idea of a date.”
“He obviously likes you,” Lisle said, leaning close. “I mean, he remembered you from the birthday party. And any guy would fall for a woman who bakes a cake like you do.”
Brooke laughed. “I can’t argue with that. But really, he’s only concerned about protecting me—which I’m beginning to think is overkill. The criminal glanced my way. That doesn’t mean he saw me clearly or—even if he did—that he would be able to find me.” She shrugged. “I doubt he cares.”
“That’s very optimistic of you.”
“The real issue here is what happened to that woman,” Brooke said. “Where is she, and is she okay?”
“I hope so. Anything could have happened.”
“Exactly,” Brooke said. “If I stick with Gabriel, I’ll know soon enough. The police are working on it, and he’s digging into it as well. He assured me that the authorities will deal with the crime, and he would manage the situation.”
“That’s worth a couple of days at his place.” Lisle winked, having recovered from the shock of the news. “From your description, I imagine that he’s drop-dead gorgeous.”
Brooke swigged her water. “I couldn’t have put it better myself.” She shook her head. “It’s tough. I can’t just bail and pretend that nothing happened. But spending the nights at Gabriel’s house? How am I supposed to feel?”
“I’m your best friend, and I already know how you feel,” Lisle said. “I’m guessing he’s attracted to you, also.”
“Now look who’s being optimistic,” Brooke said. “There’s another thing that concerns me. When the police get more information, it will be next to impossible to keep this out of the news—and social media. That wouldn’t be good for Jasper’s. And it wouldn’t be good for my career either.”
“That’s the worst-case scenario,” Lisle said. “You’re a long way from there.”
“I sure hope so.”
*****
Brooke went back to work. It was a relief to tell Lisle about the incident, to help gain perspective. But the only perspective that she could see was the image of days alone with Gabriel. She needed to get it together and keep things on friendly terms only. It would be embarrassing to act smitten with him, like a teenager. Surely she was more mature than that.
The afternoon was uneventful, and Brooke started to relax. Being busy was a helpful distraction. She began to feel as though things would work out. That was until dinner service started and Gabriel showed up. Since she couldn’t leave yet, she went out to seat him at a table.
The sight of him affected Brooke, making her take a breath before approaching. She hadn’t forgotten the attraction, but seeing him reminded her of his sex appeal. If only he was her boyfriend… But she put the thought aside.
“Hi,” she said, walking over. “You’re a bit early. I’m still in the middle of a few things.”
“I could wait in the car,” Gabriel said.
“There’s no need for that. Have a seat at this table and I’ll bring you an appetizer—on the house.”
“If you’re sure…”
Brooke nodded then went to the kitchen. A few appetizers were ready for quick service to diners. She chose spinach and artichoke dip, a favorite among guests, with session ale, a low-alcohol beer that was popular.
When she went back out, Gabriel was seated at the table, sipping water. He smiled at her. “That looks delicious, and a generous portion. How long do you think you’ll be?”
“I’m in a crucial step for tonight’s specialty dessert,” Brooke said. “But I shouldn’t be too long. I’ll come back to check on you.”
When she entered the kitchen, Jasper was staring at her. “Isn’t that the customer from the teenage birthday party?”
“Uh, yes, he is,” Brooke said, flustered.
Jasper furrowed his brow. “And you’re serving him? Do you know him?”
“Yeah, kind of. Well…Gabriel is a new friend…from last night.”
Jasper smiled. “Oh, really?”
“Last night, I got into a bit of a dangerous situation and Gabriel helped me.”
“What kind of danger?”
Quickly, Brooke gave him the highlights, skipping the part about staying the night at Gabriel’s house.
“When were you going to tell me about that?”
“I didn’t want to worry you. It’s under control,” Brooke said, with more conviction than she felt. “That’s why Gabriel is here to pick me up. He might have more information.”
The sous chef called to Jasper, diverting his attention. Brooke expelled a breath, then went back to her station. She needed to finish and leave with Gabriel. It was hard to concentrate with him in the dining room, and she was on edge about any more questions. It was one thing explaining the relationship to Lisle, but she wasn’t in the habit of sharing such things with her boss.
After dessert preparations were complete, Brooke began cleaning up. Lisle came over and whispered, “I saw you talking to Jasper. Did you tell him?”
“How could I avoid it with Gabriel sitting in the dining room?”
Lisle grinned. “I wish I’d heard you explaining that.”
“I only told him about the incident at the parade, and that Gabriel is a PI, so he’s helping me,” Brooke said. “He doesn’t know everything that I told you.”
Lisle put her hand up. “I’m not saying anything.” The gleam in her eye said it all.
Brooke shook her head. “You’re incorrigible. Anyway, I’m finished. I’ll see you tomorrow.”
She returned to the dining room and sat at the table with Gabriel. “I’m free to go. I hope that wasn’t too long.”
“With all this food, I was enjoying myself,” Gabriel said. “I don’t dine at upscale restaurants often. But I like the European charm. This is a historic building, a good spot for a restaurant in the French Quarter.”
Brooke liked it too. It was classy. The deep green walls were painted with a shiny patina glaze and decorated with weathered paintings of the city. Renovations had been handled with care to preserve the uneven floors and authentic architecture. “I’ve always liked this place. My parents brought me here when I was younger. I didn’t dream I’d ever work here.”
“Are you hungry?” Gabriel said.
“Starved,” Brooke said. “But let’s go someplace else. I feel on display with my friends in the kitchen.”
He chuckled. “Sure, where would you like to go?”
“How about Irene’s?” she said. “We can walk from here, and we won’t need reservations. Do you like Italian?”
“I swear I must be part Italian with all the spaghetti and lasagna I eat.”
Brooke laughed. “This place is popular with locals, so it can’t miss.”
*****
They strolled along the cobbled sidewalk, weaving through people. Evenings in the French Quarter were bustling, but they didn’t have to take Bourbon Street, which was like a nonstop party. Irene’s was in a quieter area. The short walk was a row of bars, shops, and restaurants, lit up to attract customers. The buildings were old but well cared for, and the upper-story balconies were decorated with hanging plants and vines.
“I’ve never grown tired of this city,” Brooke said. “I was born and raised here. Some people long to move away, but I haven’t. It’s my city. Its culture and history are in my blood.”
“I know the feeling,” Gabriel said. “It’s unique, a world of its own.”
Irene’s was packed, but there were two open stools at the bar where they could wait. Gabriel looked up at the wall of shelves displaying every type of liquor imaginable. “What would you like?”
Brooke scanned the drink menu. “I’ll have a mint julep. They know how to make them here—not too strong.”
The bartender swooped by, and Gabriel ordered the cocktail. “And I’ll have a beer—the Abita Amber will be fine.”
The noise level was high, making it difficult to hear each other, but it was fun. Brooke chatted with Gabriel about the city, the food, even different cocktails she’d tried. He talked about his favorite beers and restaurants, while appearing interested in everything she shared. It felt like a date. For a while, Brooke enjoyed the evening and put aside unwelcome thoughts.
Gabriel was easy to be with and looked tantalizing in his jeans and casual t-shirt. The sleeves hit his biceps in a way that displayed his strength, and the jeans fit his muscled thighs. Sipping her cocktail and talking, Brooke tried not to ogle him.
Before they finished their drinks, a table was ready. They moved into the dining room by the windows, where it was much quieter.
Glasses of water and a plate of crusty bread were promptly delivered. Conversation lagged as they ate chunks of bread slathered with butter. The waitress came by to take their orders.
“I’ll have the lasagna,” Brooke said.
“A woman after my own heart,” Gabriel said, then handed his menu to the waitress. “I’ll have the same.”
After the waitress brought drink refills, the silence was palpable. The main subject of the evening loomed, so Brooke brought it up. “My problem hasn’t gone away, has it? I think you would have told me right away if it had.”
“There hasn’t been a report of a missing person connected with last night’s parade,” Gabriel said. “But don’t be discouraged. It’s early. I did some digging on my own, but I haven’t learned anything new. I have Amalie on social media, looking for any clue. If anyone can find something there, she will.”
“You’re being very encouraging,” Brooke said. “But I have my doubts. It’s worrisome not to hear anything. I’d rather know. But I suppose if we don’t hear more that might be a good thing. Possibly, the woman is okay and there won’t be any report.”
“I wouldn’t count on that,” Gabriel said. “This type of thing doesn’t just go away. It’s really a matter of how long it will take for a report to surface.”
“Waiting is difficult,” Brooke said.
Gabriel swigged his beer, without taking his eyes off her. Brooke felt the spark of electricity between them. The more she knew him, the more she was attracted to him. She hadn’t envisioned romance this late in life. It wasn’t not like she was ancient , so it was possible.
As if reading her mind, Gabriel said, “Are you on good terms with your ex?”
That touched a sore spot. The meals were delivered to the table, giving Brooke a chance to consider her answer.
Gabriel carved a bite of the steaming lasagna and ate it with pleasure. Seeing him do so ignited a feeling of pleasure within her. A man digging into a delicious meal was sexy.
“Aren’t you going to eat?” Gabriel said, with a wave of his fork. “It might be the best lasagna I’ve had, and that’s saying a lot.”
Brooke took a bite and had to agree. While she chewed, she pondered what to tell Gabriel. The trouble was that he was such a good listener, so she found herself telling him more than she intended. The truth was that her marriage hadn’t gone well. It hadn’t worked on many levels, and for a long while, Brooke had thought it was mostly her fault. “When he left, it was a crushing blow,” she said. “He’d found another woman, so what did that say about me? I tortured myself over what was wrong with me. I wasn’t pretty enough, fun enough, or—the list went on.”
“And now?”
“I’m over that stage,” she said. “I’ve realized that marriage isn’t a one-way street. I wasn’t perfect, but that didn’t justify his actions. We grew distant, but that wasn’t because I didn’t try. An attorney’s life is busy, with late hours, appointments, and commitments. I felt like I was an ornament, someone to take to the company parties.” She finished the last of her cocktail. The bartender must have made it stronger, because she couldn’t believe she was telling Gabriel about such intimate feelings.
Brooke hadn’t felt recognized or listened to. She hadn’t felt loved. But she wasn’t about to share that .
“Do you date?”
“It’s not that I don’t ,” Brooke said. “I’ve tried, but…it’s been difficult. I might be past figuring out the dating scene.”
Gabriel smiled. “I understand that.”
For a few minutes, they ate and drank. When the waitress came by, Brooke declined a cocktail refill. She’d had plenty, if baring her soul to a man she barely knew was any indication. The plates were cleared and dessert offered.
“Sweet treats are my passion,” Brooke said. “I want to try the pistachio baklava to see how the chef makes it. That’s one item that’s not yet on my dessert list at Jasper’s.”
Gabriel smiled. “I think pastry chefs are the unsung heroes of the restaurant world.”
“Okay, now you’re really on my good side.” When the waitress came over, Brooke requested the baklava with the addition of citrus and white chocolate. Gabriel ordered crème br ? lée.
“I have to say that there is no shortage of amazing pastry chefs in New Orleans,” Brooke said. “They make everything from baked Alaska to bananas Foster. And if you haven’t had that flaming tableside dessert of bananas, rum, and brown sugar over vanilla ice cream, you haven’t lived.”
“Can’t say that I’ve had the pleasure,” Gabriel said with a grin.
“We’ll have to change that.” Brooke realized too late what that implied. Had she really just asked him on a date? She was falling for Gabriel more by the minute, surely headed for disappointment—if she didn’t slow down.