“I plan to check in to one of those shortly. You could’ve warned me about staying on the fifth floor.” He laughed.

“There are some things you can get here that you can’t get at a Four Seasons. I think I have a pretty good turndown service.”

He looked at me. “You make a good point.” I made sure to convince him just a little bit more before we got up, showered, and met the day.

“Would you be opposed to going over to Sausalito for dinner? A buddy of ours has a restaurant that I would like to try.”

“Sure.” I was game for anything. Hadn’t I just proven that? That afternoon, we walked around Sausalito and found it utterly endearing. With its tile roofs and blue water, it reminded me of Italy. The restaurant he wanted to try was called Beth’s. Thomas Wilson, who had gone to Cornell with the boys, named it for his wife. The restaurant was unpretentious, featuring fresh seafood prepared simply and deliciously. We ordered a bottle of wine and then another. Griffin cautioned, “Go easy girl. Those bottles of wine cost as much as a night at a Four Seasons.” I was horrified.

“You know there are cheaper ways to go if you want your way with me,” I laughed.

“I know that. You are my person, Bae, and I like seeing you have a good time.” Griffin waved his hand and ordered another bottle. I didn’t say anything back to him but instead pretended to pay attention to the notes of pear and tangerine. When I returned to New York, there was a case waiting for me. Griffin always kept me stocked with my favorite wine. My thoughts returned to the present as I poured the wine liberally.

Later, I let those memories fold into the announcements and accolades Julian had bestowed. I was going to receive an honor for designing cafeterias. Life was funny. The things that haunt us are perhaps the things that propel us to create and see something better. Something beautiful.

Chapter Eight

Julian and I met the boys for our initial conceptual meeting for their new restaurant at a small but cozy space near BLANC. From the lack of natural lighting, I guessed instantly. This place would be NOIR.

I knew something was off. Henry was brimming with ideas—only some of them good. Unfortunately, most of his ideas were outlandish. He was loud and sloppy. He may have been overflowing with ideas, but he reeked of alcohol and dissipation. He was puffy and sweaty. I could barely focus on my notes because my gaze kept wandering to his appearance.

After the meeting, Griffin announced, “You guys continue talking. I would like to show Bae something.”

“I guess this something will take about twenty minutes?” Henry joked.

“Shut up, Henry.” Griffin’s fuse had gotten noticeably shorter.

When we were alone, Griffin told me the other reason Julian and I were here. Along with Daddy, Griffin had arranged an intervention for Henry while we were in town. “Your brother has lost control,” he said.