Anthony’s new life.

Bumping into his old flame Rachel was fate, Anthony felt. He had a very good feeling about her advice to meet with Ernest Wintersmith, owner of the Ye Olde English Tea Shop. The whole ride home he smiled with relief that his problematic marriage may be on the mend.

 

 

 

When he arrived home, there in his driveway stood Rachel. He was quite surprised to see her as he had just left her an hour before in the café. As he parked his car he couldn’t help but look inquisitively at her.

 

“I’m sorry to show up at your house.” She explained as she leaned in his car window. “I didn’t have your number and I knew you would want to contact Mr. Wintersmith as soon as possible.”

 

 

“Oh, ok. I’m sorry, I was so caught up in getting home quickly to talk with Monica that I didn’t think to give you my number.” Anthony replied with a chuckle. “Thanks for coming all the way out here.”

 

“Actually we live only a few blocks away so I walked. I needed the exercise anyway.” She answered fishing for a compliment.

 

“I would hardly say that you need to exercise, you are as fit as can be.”

 

“Thanks Anthony, you were always so sweet to me.” She replied as she leaned to hug him.

 

 

He quickly broke free from the hug for he knew Monica could be watching and in her pregnant state, not to mention their marital problems, he knew she would get the wrong idea.

 

They spoke a few minutes longer and exchanged the contact information. Monica had heard Anthony’s car and emerged from the house once she realized how long it was taking him. She was slightly surprised to see him being so friendly with a strange woman and instantly felt a pang of jealousy. This woman was blonde and beautiful, and Monica couldn’t even see her own toes. She slipped back into the house avoiding an introduction at any cost when she realized she was still in her pajamas late in the afternoon.

 

 

“Who was that woman?” Monica asked Anthony the moment he stepped into the house after hurrying to change.

“Just an old friend. I had a meeting with her about a new business opportunity.” He answered with a bright smile.

 

As she lowered her eyes in disappointment about more business prospects, he could at once sense her disinterest.

 

 

 

“No, this is different. This could be a way to be at home more with you and the kids.” He said happily. “I want our life to be better.”

 

 

Monica looked skeptical and couldn’t believe what she was hearing. This wasn’t the man she had come to know lately. “You mean change restaurants?” She asked in a disbelieving tone.

 

“Well, this place is looking for a head chef/manager. It’s a very well-liked restaurant but it isn’t as demanding or as big as the Châteaux.” He explained as he noticed her doubtful demeanor. “It’s the Ye Olde English Tea Shop in Riverblosom, near the college.”

 

“I have heard of it, very trendy with lots of young people. Is that what you want? I thought it meant everything that you have your own place?” She asked in an almost mocking tone.

 

“I have finally realized that I have plenty of time for that later. I’ve decided I need to slow down and spend time with you and the kids. I want the new baby to know who I am.” He answered as he giggled out loud.

 

 

“Where is this coming from Anthony? You were just telling me you needed your space?” She said with her arms folded.

 

 

“I can change my mind can’t I? A man can suddenly realize what is important.” He answered as he tried to give her a reassuring hug. He understood her hesitance. He had been very inconsistent with his feelings. Somehow bumping into Rachel had kicked some sense into him and made him realize that his relationship with Monica was worth fighting for. As soon as he realized that Rachel may still have feelings for him and even though he and Monica’s marriage was troubled, he still felt the same love and loyalty he had felt from the beginning. Rachel’s marriage was over, but his marriage to Monica still had a good chance.

 

 

 

The next few weeks were a blur for Anthony. First a meeting was set up between him and Ernest Wintersmith at the restaurant so that he could meet him and show him around. He also explained his philosophy and expectations to ensure they were both on the same page. Ernest immediately liked Anthony, the more they spoke the more Ernest thought he had found the right man. The previous chef was moving on to open his own place and it wasn’t until Ernest met Anthony that he felt at ease about losing the man that had worked for him all those years.

 

 

Anthony immediately fell in love with the restaurant. Ernest managed to keep it fresh and new. The place had class as well as excellent food. He also found Ernest to be an admirable man. He was extremely intelligent with an incredible business sense. Anthony knew at once that he was going to love his new job and his new life.