Made with Love

By Pelaam

Can a dessert heal a rift between lovers?

Foodie and wine merchant Jake thinks he's found his ideal mate in chef Andreas.

But when Jake hosts a party and everyone thinks Andreas is nothing more than the catering supplier, Andreas is hurt and angry. Andreas walks away and Jake initially refuses to go after him. By the time he does, it's too late -- or is it?

Can a dessert bring the two men back together and heal the rift?

• Language: English
• Publisher: JMS Books LLC
• Release date: Feb 11, 2023
• ISBN: 9781685502546

Pelaam

Living in clean, green New Zealand, Pelaam is a multi-published author of gay romance and erotic books. When not busy writing, she can be found indulging in her other passions of cookery and wine appreciation. Pelaam's books: Smoking Mirror, 2017 finalist in 2017 Rainbow Awards in Gay Futuristic/Sci-Fi; Stranded, Evernight Publishing Readers’ Choice winner 2016 for Sci-Fi; The Avian Emperor, runner up and Honourable Mention in 2016 Rainbow Awards Gay Futuristic/Sci-Fi.

Book preview

Chapter 1

Pushing open the door, Jake peered inside. This wasn’t the normal designer, ultra-modern environment that he preferred. There was no doubt that the place was clean and well-maintained—although Jake fully intended to check out the toilet at the first opportunity. I’ve always gone by the premise that if they’re scrupulous at keeping the restroom facilities spotless, then they’ll probably be equally diligent in the kitchen area. Not changing that opinion today.

Whitewashed walls decorated with Greek scenery and the occasional vase on a small plinth greeted his curious gaze. The tables weren’t too closely crowded together, which had his approval. Nothing worse than rows like you’re still at school, or sitting so close to your neighbour you might as well invite them to join in the conversation.

Movement caught his eye and Jake glowered in Scott’s direction who waved from the far end of the restaurant. A huge fucking order. Jake muttered the vow under his breath as he stalked toward his friend.

The place was busier than he imagined, most tables taken even though this was lunchtime, not dinner. I guess that has to say something about the place. Quite a few business-types, too.

Jake, good to see you. Scott pulled Jake into a hard hug, slapping his back enthusiastically. I’m glad you could make it. This is such a great place.

Making a show of looking around, Jake fixed his friend with a level stare. Looks fine. A Greek taverna? Not your normal style. Certainly not mine.

Trust me, Jake. This restaurant is a positively Hellenic jewel. Zeus himself would eat here and Dionysus provides the wine.

Someone does and it isn’t me. Finally smiling as Scott laughed out loud, Jake sat opposite his friend. Can you imagine the flack I’d take for drinking wine my business didn’t supply? I could be blackballed.

"So long as you’re not blue balled." Scott leaned forward and winked, adding a leer that finally made Jake laugh.

My love life—

Or lack thereof. Scott chimed in waving his wine glass.

My love life is not open for discussion. Fuck, Scott, if I thought you needed to put in a big order before making me come here, it’s just upped a dozen cases.

Now, now. Scott wagged a finger at him. As a matter of fact, one of the owners is a second cousin. So be nice.

Blinking, Jake stared at Scott temporarily lost for words. I didn’t know you were Greek.

I’m not. I’m Kiwi. But there’s some Greek in my father’s family. Scott gestured vaguely. "Dad’s pretty stoked to have found a connection. Quite frankly, I am too. This is a good restaurant. It makes a nice, refreshing change to have good, clean food without any artsy-fartiness. Plus it’s good Greek food."

Fine. So where’s the menu? His curiosity piqued, Jake looked around.

"You can look at it later. I’ve already ordered. We’re having meze."

Oh, for fuck’s sake. Jake rolled his eyes. Visions of insipid dips and dishes of dead things in jelly flashed through his mind.

Jake, behave now. You know I’m every bit the foodie you are. No matter what Dad found out about the owners of this place, if the food was crap we wouldn’t be here.

A guilty flush heated Jake’s cheeks. I do know Scott well enough to realize that if the food wasn’t excellent, Scott wouldn’t have brought me here. He held up his hands. Okay. My bad. What are we getting in the meze?

Scott’s expression relaxed and his smile became smug. You’ll see.

Scott, how good to see you again. And this must be the friend you told me about.

The newcomer beamed down at Jake. He was deeply tanned, even looking closely at the man’s face, Jake was sure it came from swimming, surfing, or fishing. Jake rose and shook the proffered hand. His own was easily enveloped in the shovel-like mitt and pumped vigorously.

Jake, allow me to introduce you to the restaurant owner, Ilias. Scott indicated the newcomer.

Good to meet you. Scott said only good things about you. Ilias looked Jake over with an appraising gaze.

I’m very flattered. Jake nodded.

So you should be. Scott laughed at Jake’s narrow-eyed look.

"You ready for the meze? Andreas is the chef today. It will be a very special meal."

Andreas? Is he your head chef? Jake resumed