Chapter 5 - THE TASTE OF STRANGETTE
Norah approached the booth with a calm, unhurried rhythm. She set the heavy white ceramic bowl down in the center of the laminate table right in front of Gabriel, along with a polished stainless-steel spoon and a thick paper napkin.
"A steaming bowl of homemade stracotto," Norah said softly, her voice warm and devoid of fear. "It’s hot, so take it slow."
Leo stepped up behind the booth, looking down at his boss. "I watched everything, Gabriel. Unopened beef, fresh herbs, sealed stock, clean pot. I didn't take my eyes off her for a second. It’s clean."
Gabriel didn't look up at Leo. He stared down at the bowl sitting before him. The steam curled up toward his pale face, carrying the complex bouquet of garlic, seared beef, and cinnamon.
His right hand, visible now under the bright overhead lights, trembled noticeably as he reached out. His long fingers wrapped around the handle of the metal spoon. It took a visible effort of will for him to lift the utensil, dip it into the rich, dark broth, and pull up a small portion of meat and gravy.
He held the spoon suspended in the air for three long, agonizing seconds. The entire diner went deathly quiet; even the rain outside seemed to soften as every man in the room held his breath.
Gabriel brought the spoon to his lips and tasted the stew.
May you like
The moment the warm broth hit his tongue, Gabriel Hayes completely froze.
The spoon slowly lowered back toward the bowl, slipping from his weak grip and clinking softly against the ceramic rim. Gabriel’s chest stopped moving. His eyes, previously sharp and vigilant, lost all focus, staring blankly at the dark liquid as if the physical world around him had completely dissolved.
