We'll Always Have Paris

by 875265

What happens when fun and fast-paced nights in the kitchen of the most famous and acclaimed restaurant in France go awry? When the lights go out and love turns into a recurring nightmare? Brief yet rich vignettes detail the ups and downs of a tempestuous relationship against the backdrop of Goodness me, regardez à Paris.

5. Chapter 5

In an outdoor café, the escargot arrived swiftly, piping hot. Pretty delicious. I mean at least I thought so.

She dunked a snail in the butter, remarking that she could do much better. I could do better too, if I applied myself.

I have a few specialties up my sleeve, I said. I said as the son of Gusteau, I should know something about the craft. That's what I said. That's why I was here, wasn't it?

She nodded. But was I improving? It wasn't enough to be the son of a famous chef; I had to always, consistently strive for perfection.

But isn't perfection kind of a fallacy?

Nope. Not for me. And of course you knew this when you met me. She brought the napkin to her lips. It doesn't even matter.

Then why'd you bring it up?

She shook her head, not wanting to make a scene in front of all these nice people.

I didn't want to rat him out (ha) but I'd tried my master's cooking. It was beyond anything I've ever tasted before. Critics raved. Even Skinner approved. He made me believe in food again. I shrugged. Maybe I'm not the one who needs to improve… I muttered.

She smiled and cocked her head, daring me to repeat myself. I did. She flipped the table, scattering our drinks and snails all over the rue, garnering a few startled cries.

I tried to run after her, but I got stuck with the tab.