We awoke early the next morning. We played lovingly in the early morning light before the time brought Jennie back to reality. We showered quickly. Well, as quickly as two people who weren't done exploring each other could. The City Kitchen needed to be opened so I tamped down on my passion. We dressed in yesterday's clothes and headed out looking for a cab. Alice tried to stop us as the front doors opened, but her warning came too late.
A small cheer went up, cameras flashed and reporters armed with microphones ran toward us. The Leach had been busy. We smiled and waved as we tried desperately to break away. Finally, I stopped and grabbed Jennie's hand. The crowd quieted down.
"For twelve years the City Kitchen has never missed a day," I said, raising our hands, "please, we're late." Some of the reporters stepped back, others did not. Police broke through the throng and I couldn't be happier to see them. They led us to an unmarked vehicle and made sure we got out of there. I watched the reporters packing up to follow. No, fame did not sit well with me.
There were two reporters at the City Kitchen. Luckily, the main force was still en route. The cameras and questions were more cordial since they didn't have to fight with anyone. We were cordial in return, and answered some easy questions. A well-dressed man in an expensive long coat was standing by the door as we approached. He was older, but had an air of sophistication that offset it with confidence.
"Jennie Kim," the man bowed his head slightly, "I wonder if I might have a word with you and Jisoo." I moved forward. I didn't like the way he carried himself. Way too authoritative.
"And you are?" Jennie asked from behind me. This was her place and she reeked the same confidence back at the man. The man smiled contritely.
"I would prefer we spoke inside," he nodded to the reporters. "I suspect it would cause a scene neither of us could afford out here." I knew exactly who he was. He wasn't hiding behind lawyers this time.
"I believe this is Mr. Braun," I said quietly. Jennie clenched her teeth and unlocked the door.
"Thank you," Braun said as he entered following Jennie. She moved quickly into the dining room, and turned, wearing a less than friendly expression.
"You're trying to ruin me," Jennie said. You could almost smell the poison in the air. I moved again to position myself slightly between the two. I wasn't sure who I was protecting anymore. Jennie looked like she might go for his eyes.
"Actually," Braun said calmly "I was trying to make you cave. I would have never taken it too far. I must admit, I didn't expect the retaliation." I was about ready to hold him down and let Jennie scratch his eyes out. He shook his head and held up his hand when he saw our anger brewing.
"I'm done," Braun said, trying to cool us down, "to me, business is life." He looked around the dining room. "I see you two have a different view."
"Why?" Jennie asked with her anger still at the forefront.
"Simple answer. You thwarted my rezoning." Braun shrugged his shoulders. "It's the equivalent of throwing down a gauntlet. I fought back." He chuckled. "I just completely underestimated you. The amount of support you two gathered was impressive."
"You could have sent your lawyer to concede," I said with disdain. I wasn't sure why he was here. I worried this was just another play.
"I am here to grovel, Ms. Kim." Braun was smiling as he spoke. He found the situation humorous. "You two have me by the balls. I wouldn't blame you if you decided to finish me off, but I have learned my lesson. I apologize." He bowed to Jennie whose expression changed to one of bewilderment.
"We haven't touched you." My confusion was apparent. "You've had us jumping through hoops the whole time." Braun laughed and had to cover his mouth to squelch it.
