What about me?

Part 27

I finally meet with Pi, the owner of that big K-pop record company, several months later. After some crafty negotiating with the help of my savvy boyfriend, Pi offers me a contract with a very sweet royalty deal and complete creative control. Of course, I accept.

Tonight, Tae takes me out to dinner at the Culinary Palace in Seoul. This restaurant specializes in Korean culture cuisine and offers a multi-course menu. It's a Michelin-starred restaurant that's nearly impossible to get reservations and a good table unless you're a celebrity or someone very important, like my man.

I've heard about the Culinary Palace from a few artists and music executives. I make good money but it's far too rich for me. My man is a VIP, wealthy, and evidently knows the right people. "Tae, how did you get us a reservation here in less than 24 hours?" I ask.

"Babe, your man knows people in high places. Kookie, I'm so proud of you," he said, lifting his fluted champagne glass to his lips for another sip. "Look at my brilliant boyfriend setting the world on fire with his music." A warm vibration moves through my limbs as we sit at the best table in the restaurant overlooking an amazing garden with a spectacular koi pond. I feel incredibly seen and celebrated as my skin prickles with excitement. I can't imagine a time when I've been happier.

The world-renowned Chef Moon comes over to our table, takes a seat and talks about the menu before he prepares our meal. Is this what it's like to live like the rich and famous, cause I'm loving it right now. He asks me about my palate and then plans my courses. My mind is officially blown.

When the meal comes out, its presentation is gorgeously breathtaking, and we're served by five waiters. I feel like a big fucking deal. Tae assures me I am. The power of my blush heats my entire body.

"Oh god, yes. My palate is beyond pleased," I tell Chef Moon when he comes with two waiters carrying our delectable desserts. He and the owner are beyond gracious which raises a bit of suspicion in me. Of course, I can't help it because it doesn't take much for my mind to get going. It's the way they treat Tae, like he's some kind of royalty. At first, I think it's just the restaurant's brand for extraordinary service but it's more. I'm one for watching details and there's not much I miss.

I pull my spoon slowly from my mouth with a slow moan as I savor my first bite. "Tae, oh my god, this is so good my toes are curling." Tae smiles and tips his head forward. I believe that he is enjoying my experience. I decide to probe further.

"I thought for a minute that Chef Moon was going to kiss your feet as were the staff." Tae blows a laugh through his nose.

"We'll come back again in the future. It's been a long time since I've been here, and the owner and Chef Moon still remember me."

"I'll say they do." My eyes crinkled with a smile.

"How's your dessert love?" For some reason I get the impression that Tae's the one with the diversion tactic tonight. He shifts the subject which I'm aware of. It was subtle but he did. I'm the king of diversion and you can't fool me.

"It's divine sweetheart." I said and picked up my probe again. "So why has it been years since you've been here?" I spoon out another scoop of my dessert. There's a thread here and I'm going to pull it.

"Oh, I just haven't had a need or a desire. This is a place to be shared with someone special or for a very special occasion Kookie, like tonight." I certainly can't argue with that.

"Tae did you come here with Hong?" There's an awkward pause before he answers.

"Yes, a few times when we were dating." Before I can ask another question, I see his eyes anchored onto someone coming towards him from behind me. He clearly knows them, yet his expression reads as unpleasant with narrowing eyes and a tight press of his lips into a thin lie. His face then relaxes to flat as the person gets closer. I turn to my side and see an older gentleman who stops at our table.