Cozying Up

Sera

Soft light poured from frosted windows as Killian’s hand slid along my lower back, his other hand grasping the handle and pulling open the door that led into the restaurant. Hidden away from the masses, we’d had to go down an alleyway and a short flight of stairs to reach it. The intoxicating fragrance that wafted through the open door told me it was worth it. Closing my eyes, I took in a deep breath, my stomach rumbling in response.

Killian tugged me inside. I smiled up at him as we entered a dimly lit, small space with a handful of booths and a few tables sprinkled around the center. It was cozy, nonthreatening. I liked it already.

“Ricci! My boy.” A handsome older man rounded a vinyl counter and walked toward us with open arms. He kissed Killian on one cheek, then the other. “Look at you, so healthy. How is your mama?”

“Alive, unfortunately.” Killian smiled. A real, genuine smile. “Sera, this is Yiannis Ariti.”

“Hi.” I felt my cheeks go warm and pink as the man’s blue eyes met