Gavin looked up anxiously as Hank returned, green eyes glancing back towards the dining room. He hadn't heard any shouting, and Hank hadn't told him to shut it down, so it seemed things had somehow gone off without a hitch. Connor appeared moments later, looking relieved and awaiting further instructions. Gavin didn't dare bring it up with Connor standing so close. He was pretty sure he didn't know yet. He doubted he'd look so pleased if he did. Gavin put up the salads he was working on, and Connor soon disappeared. As soon as he left, Gavin sidled over to Hank, who was looking at the tray of rump steaks with almost murderous intent.

"What happened? He didn't eat it?" That was the only explanation he could think of, but then, surely Hank would look way more angry. He was intense, but there was something heated about his expression. Focused. His blue eyes were blazing with something ferocious, but not so searing as rage.

"He ate it alright." Gavin's lips curled in disgust. He ate the jizz soup?

"And he didn't notice?" What the fuck was wrong with that guy's tastebuds? He wanted more salt when the food was perfectly seasoned, and couldn't taste the difference between plain salt and jizz? Hank finally settled on a steak, selecting one of the medium-sized cuts. Richard was only small, so he wouldn't want it too big. Not if he wanted room for dessert. Gavin stayed with him as he crossed to the grill, still waiting for an answer as Hank seasoned and oiled the meat, massaging it with deft fingers.

"Oh, he noticed alright." The look in his eyes as he'd taken that second bite, and that question! Did you think of me when you made this? Fuck, if he could get it up again so soon, he'd drag that little ferret out back and show him exactly what he was thinking about. Gavin gagged quietly, swallowing the churning feeling in his stomach at the news. That's gross! He wouldn't even do that for Nines! Maybe...Probably...Alright, maybe he would, but it was still gross! That Perkins guy didn't even know Hank! Did he just go around getting off on drinking random people's jizz?

"And?" What did that mean for the restaurant? Was he going to report them? Hold it over Hank's head and extort him?

"And he's still eating." Gavin felt his skin pale a shade. Did you have to tell me that?

"I meant about service!" Hank chuckled as he set the steak on the grill. There was nothing quite like the sizzling crackle of a juicy, oiled steak hitting a hot grill. Sparks stung his bare skin where he hadn't rolled his sleeves down. If anything, that just fuelled him more. This was going to be the best damned steak that emaciated little ferret had ever tasted! Knowing they still had orders, Gavin returned to his station, but he was still keeping an ear out for Hank's answer as he checked on the lasagnes in the oven.

"We keep going as normal. I'm working on our critic's main now. I'll need one baked potato in fifteen minutes." That should be enough time for the steak to cook and rest. He didn't even look to see if Gavin had heard. He never let him down when it was important. Gavin leaned down and checked the numbers. He had some potatoes ready to go, snugly wrapped in foil, slowly baking. The heat was low enough that they definitely wouldn't burn in the next fifteen minutes, and the foil always made them crisp on the outside and fluffy on the inside.

Richard had said any vegetables, so Hank grabbed a few staples. A grilled tomato and two large mushrooms with baby carrots and asparagus. It was the right season, and they were crisp and delicious. While Hank meticulously prepared Richard's meal, Gavin picked up the other orders, using his side of the grill to whip up burgers while working on a pizza. Stealing a quick glance, Hank had to admit Nines had made a good choice in Gavin. The kid was a godsend. Prodding the steak, he found the flesh had just the right bounce. He squeezed the sides to be sure, giving it just a few more seconds before lifting it off the heat and putting it on a tray to rest.

Adding a little more seasoning, Hank grabbed the red salt and filled a little side dish, smirking as he set it on the edge of the plate. If Richard wanted salt, he'd give him salt. After finishing the burgers for Gavin, Hank grabbed the baked potato and set about cutting it open. He left it in the foil, only opening it enough to drop a thick lump of butter inside before closing it again. Once the steak and vegetables were on the plate, he rang for Connor, who appeared with Richard's empty bowl, much to Gavin's distaste.

"He ate the lot! You must have really nailed it!" Son, you have no idea...And he hoped he never would. Gavin choked into his shoulder, moving off the line to calm himself after that little slip. Connor watched him go worriedly as Hank chortled and pushed the steak across the pass. Connor took the hot plate carefully and smiled.

"Richard's table. Here, tell him this is for his salt deficiency, and if he needs more, I'll be happy to provide." Connor let out a soft oh as he took the plate, being careful of the small ramakin balanced on the edge. So that's why he needed more salt. It sort of made sense now. Hank had certainly given him a lot. It was the good stuff, too. Himalayan. The best you could buy. He didn't think Richard would need any more than that, but he'd certainly pass on the message. Hank watched Connor go before putting his head into the storeroom to check on Gavin, who was busy trying to rein in his snickers. "Come on, just five tables left." Five tables of mains anyway. After that it was desserts and sweet-sweet freedom.

The mood had certainly lifted in the kitchen, and it wasn't going too badly out front either. Connor delivered the food and the message, unsure why Richard laughed. Hazel eyes watched anxiously as Richard pressed the meat, finding it firm but bouncy. The outside was nicely charred and dusted with seasoning, but not so much that it would overpower the natural flavour of the meat. Even though it was rump, a notoriously tough cut, his knife glided through it as he sliced. It was perfect. Browned on the outer edges and gradually darkening to a rich pink in the middle. Connor anxiously waited for him to take the first bite before he left, making himself available in case there was a problem.

"It's divine...Tell the chef I'm grateful he's so considerate," Richard added as he picked up the small ramakin of salt for emphasis. Connor beamed and hurried off with a small bow, leaving Richard chuckling to himself. That boy wasn't the brightest knife in the drawer, but he was certainly an excellent host. Polite, friendly, and eager to please. It was probably a good thing he had an eye for the older, more mature gentleman. Someone experienced and worldly. He closed his eyes as he chewed the meat, which was quite soft despite being a hardy cut.

The potato billowed with steam as he opened the foil, a pool of butter already soaking into the fluffy innards. He flaked the potato with his fork, mixing and churning before taking a small bite. His eyes fluttered, tastebuds humming as butter and herbs touched his tongue. The carrots were still firm, and the asparagus still had a little bite, but the tomato and mushroom were soft and salty, perfectly cooked alongside the steak. It was good, homely food, but prepared to restaurant standards. He could taste the love and care Hank had put into it as he imagined those large hands caressing the meat, getting it slick and oiled. Richard recrossed his legs, squirming in his seat to ease the pressure on his trapped cock.

His slacks were uncomfortable and had been ever since that stunt with the soup. It was rare that he came back to give a place a second try, but after his first visit he'd looked up the chef. There wasn't much professionally, besides a picture of the opening two years ago. The place was called Cole's, after his deceased son, and in the picture taken out front stood Hank with his arm around Connor's shoulders. He made Connor look small; he was so robust. Broad shoulders, a wide chest, a modest gut, and a smile that made Richard's stomach flip. Perhaps he'd been too hasty in his first review. Having returned, he could certainly say things were looking up. His previous visit had been a lacklustre experience. Simply average.

Hank had certainly upped his game this time, even before his little game with the soup. A chef's reaction to remaking a dish was something he usually judged. However, this was the first time anyone had been so bold as to taint his food. Most were usually too worried about the later consequences of such an act, and for good reason. Poisoning people's food simply wouldn't do, and it was something he should report. Should. He did have morals, but they were a little shaky right now when he was being bribed with such a delicious meal. Everything was perfectly cooked. The pink of the meat, the softness of the potato, the crisp carrots and asparagus, the saltiness of the tomato and mushrooms. It all came together perfectly.

Richard took his time as he ate, ordering a third glass of wine and enjoying the twinkling lights of the city. It wasn't Connor's practice to hurry guests along to open up tables, and he wouldn't dream of doing such a thing to a critic, so Richard was still sitting there over an hour later when most other guests were on dessert. With the dim lighting and soft music, Richard had quite forgotten himself, and the time, but he finally finished and set his plate aside. It was only then that Connor dared approach and gently interrupt his thoughts to see if he wanted dessert.

"Certainly. What do you have?" Connor was well versed in the menu and immediately listed off a cheesecake, tiramisu, chocolate mousse, and ice cream sundae. He could go into detail on each, though when asked for his opinion, he admitted the chocolate mousse was his favourite. However, he added that he had quite a sweet tooth, so if Richard usually enjoyed more savoury flavours, he might like the cheesecake or tiramisu more. The cheesecake was a rich, dairy flavour while the tiramisu was lighter with the bitter edge of coffee. They all sounded tempting, however Richard was partial to sweets, so the occasional sweet dessert was quite pleasant. "I'll take your recommendation and try the chocolate mousse."

"An excellent choice!" Connor beamed as he removed the plate and hurried off to the kitchen. Richard huffed softly as he watched him go. It really was quite delightful, the way he had no control over the emotions on his face. He'd been reading him all night. Though he did his best to put on a bright front, he was incredibly nervous and eager to please, but always genuinely kind, even with the more waspish customers. When people shared pleasantries, he was happy, and when he received praise, his eyes lit up the whole room.

His brother was far colder and more professional, delivering excellent service with practiced skill and knowledge. Quite the contrast. As well as manning the bar and delivering plates, it seemed the taller one was also there to curb any incidents. His icy gaze had shut down more than one rude customer and had them sheepishly shuffling their way out. This was all done with politeness and subtlety so as not to disturb any other diners and risk tarnishing the restaurant. These incidents were very few due to Connor's charm, and he noticed only one truly disgruntled customer all evening.

These were all notes Richard had scribbled down in his trusty notebook. It was the only way to be as a critic. Notes were always best taken in the moment when the experience was freshest and details wouldn't be lost or forgotten later. His reviews had deadly precision for good reason. Details. His thoughts were always the most passionate when he was eating, and his words reflected that. Compiling those words into a cutting report later was child's play. Part of the reason for his popularity was his honesty and precision. He offered praise where it was due and tore things apart where it was most deserved.

The mousse was more than likely prepared earlier in the day and stored in the fridge, because it was brought out remarkably quickly. Connor beamed as he placed it on his table, along with another glass of wine, though by the soft red colour, Richard knew it was a different bouquet. He met Connor's hazel eyes with a hint of suspicion as he raised and smelled the wine. It had both floral and fruity undertones. A sparkling red that tickled the senses. He hummed as he took a sip, turning the glass this way and that in the light. The sweetness of red berries hit his tongue, with a hint of rose underneath. Although sweet, it wasn't overpowering. It was more a dash of sweetness with a slightly sour tang and a rich aromatic air. After swallowing, the palate was gifted with a hint of honey and something almost herby. It was an excellent choice for something as rich, smooth, and sweet as a chocolate mousse.

"A Brachetto D'Acqui. It comes highly recommended as a pairing for this dessert." Richard smiled and raised his glass to the taller brother behind the bar. Pairing dishes seemed to be his forte, and he inclined his head politely as he cleaned down the bar for the evening. No other drinks would be served. Indeed, most guests were finishing up and preparing to leave. Being a critic came with some perks, and taking his time was one of them. "Please, take your time." That was pretty much giving him permission to take advantage.

"Thank you." Watching Connor leave, Richard took his first mouthful of rich, fluffy mousse. There were layers inside. It started with a light, cloudy mousse before becoming richer and thicker, more like cream or yoghurt. At the bottom was a soft layer of biscuit and a rich coating of salted caramel. A hum slipped out as he chewed. It really was a treat. An excellent end to a fine meal. Hank Anderson had more than won him over with his cooking, and his boys with their hospitality.

Over the next few minutes, most of the tables were set for the next day, the till was counted, the glasses cleaned and put away, and a start was made on polishing the cutlery. Another young man appeared from out back, his brunette hair damp and scruffy from a long shift worked in the hot kitchen. His whites were splattered here and there, along with his apron as he pulled it off and headed over to the bar, where he made no attempt at hiding his affection for the barman. Richard could only assume they were dating as he wrapped his arms around his waist and buried his face in his shoulder blades with a tired grumble. The taller man leaned back a little at that, still helping Connor with the cutlery. It was a few moments later that Hank came out, silver hair now freed from its tail, chef's jacket unbuttoned at the neck.

"I can finish up here. You three go on home," he said as he caught Richard's eye. Richard, who was almost done with his dessert, slowly raised the spoon to his lips. He could feel Hank watching him as he sucked and licked the spoon before slowly pulling it out and licking his lips. Connor seemed hesitant as he looked at the box of cutlery they'd barely started while the barman looked surprised. The only one who didn't seem surprised was the young chef, who was doing his best to hide a smirk.

"But what about-"

"You heard him! Let's go, I'm beat!" the young chef exclaimed as he released his lover to yawn and stretch. The barman wasn't going to argue, it seemed, as he folded his towel and set it on the bar for the next day. Connor was still hesitant, looking from the large tub to Hank and back again. It seemed he was used to following a set routine in the evenings. Hank's lips softened as he rested his hands on his hips.

"Go on, son. You can finish them up tomorrow." Though he seemed unsatisfied, the young chef's exclamation that they should go and his brother's hand ruffling his hair soon had Connor heading out back to get his jacket. Richard returned to looking out the window, anticipation twisting his gut as the trio said their goodbyes and left. Hearing the click of the lock after them, Richard licked his suddenly dry lips and looked across at Hank as he approached. He grabbed a bottle of cold beer on his way over and sat, using his fist and the edge of the table to uncap the bottle with a smoothness that made Richard's cock twitch. Now that they were sitting across from each other, he could see exactly how big those rough hands were. They'd dwarf his hips if he held them. Just one could make his neck disappear if he gripped it.

Hank regarded him with something akin to hunger as he took a gulp of cold beer. Richard's dark eyes were just as heated, dropping to his bowl as he gathered another spoonful of mousse. They only raised as the spoon touched his lips, locking with Hank's in another salacious stare as he sucked it clean. Heat flickered in the depths of Hank's aged eyes as he watched, lips thinning with the need for another sip to steady his nerves. Lowering the bottle, he wasn't sure what to say, and it seemed Richard was just as lost for words. It hadn't seemed so difficult earlier. Earlier had been a moment of heated passion, fuelled by outrage and lust. Now his earlier feelings had cooled, Hank was actually a little nervous.

"How is it?" he asked in a low grumble, watching Richard swallow and following the rise and fall of his Adam's apple.

"It's excellent." Hank could tell he meant it as their eyes met. He also couldn't help but wonder if the man had been fucking with him in the article. Was he fucking with me or did I really have an off night? It could happen. Maybe something had been left out, or he'd been tired, and Richard's standards were just too high. Maybe..."I'm glad I came back for a second try...I guess I should let you close up. Sorry to keep you so late." Hank watched, bewildered, as Richard finished his drink and got to his feet. Hank stood with him as he looped his jacket over his arm and started heading for the door. What the-

"Hey, wait a minute!" Knocking his chair over, Hank strode the three paces it took to grab Richard's arms and pulled him back against his chest. He heard the sharp intake of breath and felt the way his body stiffened. His shoulders were rigid against his diaphragm, and his ass had firmed against his thigh as he closed in. Whether it was anticipation or nerves, it was hard to tell. "Why are you leaving so fast?" he asked with a hum, curious as Richard remained silent. "Seems a waste after that little show you put on..." His lips curled as he noticed a little pink creeping up Richard's neck. Not as confident as he tries to seem, hm? Earlier, he would have thought he'd latch onto him the moment service ended, but now it seemed he'd lost his nerve. Has he lost his nerve, or is he playing coy?

"It's late." A weak excuse. Hank chuckled, hot breath teasing Richard's ear as he leaned down by his neck. He smelled nice. Expensive aftershave. He twitched a little at their increased closeness, vaguely trembling as large hands came to rest on his hips. Hank enjoyed the expensive cotton against his fingers, smirking at the thought that it might soon be around his ankles.

"It's early," Hank replied, giving Richard an almost encouraging smirk as he looked over his shoulder. It was a wonder he looked so coy and uncertain now after being so lustful earlier. He'd literally eaten a bowl of his spunk. Well, not just his spunk, but still! He'd eaten the whole damned bowl with a smile on his face! Where was that guy? Looking into his chestnut eyes, Hank was pretty sure he was still in there somewhere, lurking beneath the surface. He just had to bring him out. "Plenty early enough for you to get on your knees." It was a gamble being so direct, but it had the desired effect.

It was almost like Richard took a breath of relief as he finally turned to face him, just a little of that earlier confidence returning to the surface. Licking his lips, he glanced from Hank's mouth to his eyes, which were brimming with heat as he towered over him. He'd been waiting for this since watching him swallow that second mouthful of soup earlier. It seemed Richard had also been waiting as he reached up to grip his shoulders, standing on tiptoe and tilting his head in invitation. Not one to disappoint, Hank leaned down to seal his lips, surprised and delighted by the softness of his skin. He must have shaved shortly before coming out.

After a few tentative brushes, Hank pushed closer, humming at the feeling of Richard's arms tightening around his neck. He could taste the hint of wine on his lips, as he knew he could taste the beer on his. Their breaths mingled, panted gasps warming their lips as they finally parted to use their tongues. Fingers laced in silver locks, fisting and pulling him closer. Hank growled at the tugging on his scalp, gripping his pert ass in retaliation. Fuck, he's a perky little fucker! Richard whined as teeth grazed his bottom lip, tipping his head back with a breathless pant to gaze into Hank's fiery eyes. Cupping his cheek, Hank ran his thumb across his wet lips, enjoying the pink from the rub of his scruff.

"Knees...Now." It was almost amusing, the way he dropped like a rock. Hank parted his legs with a smirk, bringing himself to the right height for Richard's trembling lips. Chestnut eyes heated, becoming heady as he stroked up his thighs and palmed the growing bulge in his trousers. The chef's jacket almost hid the flies, but that didn't stop Richard as he reached up and unbuckled his belt. "That's it, Richie...I've got your mignardise right here." Richard openly moaned as he lowered the zipper, not even waiting before leaning in to kiss and tease the solid bulge. Fuck, he's horny...Hank grunted as sharp teeth grazed his boxers, teasing his cock through the tight material.

Lacing a hand in his hair, Hank returned the earlier roughness, tugging the brunette locks to make Richard look up at him. Holding him there, lips open, cheeks flushed, eyes hazy, Hank reached into his boxers and pulled out his cock. He chuckled at the way Richard whined, watching his tongue dart out to wet his lips. Taking his time, Hank stroked his cock, letting the dripping tip get close enough for Richard's tongue to lap. Fuck, he'd pay to record this, to be able to replay it. The little ferret looked ravenous as he lapped the pearly droplets. Wait a minute...He didn't have to pay. They were right in the middle of his restaurant! Glancing up, Hank subtly turned their bodies in the right direction, making Richard blindly shuffle after him.

"You like that? You like my cock?" Pumping faster, Hank stepped closer, snickering as he held Richard back and tapped his cheek with his cock. Far from being put off, the clap on his skin only seemed to spur him on more. He pulled against his grip, trying to turn his head to mouth and lick the solid flesh. "You want it? You want another taste?" Tentative hands stroked his thighs, making the material of his slacks slip lower to release his balls. Hank groaned as one of Richard's hands reached up to cup and palm the heavy sack, almost trying to convince him.

"Yeah, I want it...Give it to me." The little fucker was smirking at him!

"Fuck, open your mouth." Richard wasted no time in doing as he was told, instantly moaning around it as Hank pushed in. He choked a little as the tip struck the back of his throat, making Hank click his tongue. That was it? If he could only take a couple of inches, this wasn't going to be good. Sitting higher on his knees, Richard squeezed and rolled his balls again, making him groan. Then again...It wasn't all bad. Feeling Richard's hand on his, Hank released his cock and let Richard take over. Perhaps giving him control would make it better. Wet lips kissed and sucked the first inch as he worked the shaft, his hand barely closing around the girth. How it would fit down his throat was a mystery to both of them, but fuck, he was going to try.

Pulling off, Richard took to delivering long licks up and down the shaft, slicking up the silky outer skin. Hank swapped from gripping his hair to stroking, lazily watching and enjoying the affectionate licks. Just when he thought it was getting repetitive, Richard dropped to lick and mouth his sack as well, kissing and sucking his balls with a sinful whine. His eyes closed as he worked, lips returning to his cock to stretch around the dripping tip. Hank cursed under his breath as those dark eyes opened to get a reaction. Tempted as he was to hold him there and snap his hips, he was curious to see what he'd do.

"You ready for my cock, Richie?" Fuck, the vibrations on his cock as he hummed his agreement were nice. Hank sighed, panting softly as Richard finally got started. Gripping the lower half, he started rocking and sucking, doing his best to gulp and swallow around him. He soon had a rhythm going, loudly gorging himself with each rock. Choking and gulping sounds slipped out, along with the wet sucking of his stretched lips. Oh fuck! He shouldn't have looked down. Seeing how wet Richard's lips were, how carelessly he rocked and squirmed on his knees, Hank almost spilled then and there. It wasn't every day a younger man in an expensive suit dropped to his knees to worship your cock.

"Fuck, come on! You can do it, come on!" Richard was getting bolder, his hand creeping higher as he rocked closer to take in more. His chokes became harsher and more frequent as he sucked him down. He was more than halfway now. Hank couldn't believe he was taking so much as he watched the thick muscle slide in and out. He was gliding back and forth, almost all the way to the tip. Hot breath huffed against his crotch with each rock as Richard virtually choked himself. His eyes were fucking watering he was trying so hard. "Hold on and let me help. Let me get a grip there."

Richard almost seemed to go limp. He released his cock and settled for gripping his thighs instead as Hank brought both hands to his head. Not wanting to get too rough straight off, Hank teased his scalp, stroking like he was a beloved pet before gripping and pulling him closer. Richard tilted his head and tried to get a good angle before Hank pulled him onto his cock with one firm jerk. Hank felt it as he choked, pushing back to give him enough time to splutter and huff before dragging him back. The feeling of his throat closing around his cock was divine, and the tears streaking his cheeks were a nice little bonus.

"Fuck, hold your throat open!" It was both a reprimand and a warning. His job was to be a good little cocksucker and enjoy his treat, not choke and vomit on his shoes. The warning was also telling him it was dangerous not to keep his throat open. Hank didn't want to risk bruising or making him sick. Rough as he was being, he wanted this to be a positive experience for both of them. "That's it, Richie!" Richard was eager to please, eyes sharp with determination as he opened up. Hank cursed as his cock glided down, being sucked and squeezed all the way.

He snapped his hips, grunting each time as he held Richard in place. The little ferret was a wreck. His lips and chin were slick with saliva, pathetic little choking whines slipping out with each thrust. Richard had never been used so thoroughly before. His jaw ached, trembling with the effort of keeping it open. He felt sick each time the tip jabbed his gag reflex, but it could no longer close as Hank's cock pushed right through it. His own cock was so hard it hurt, trapped in his slacks. The best he could do for relief was squirm against Hank's leg as he worked. Just when he thought he might pass out, feeling heady and lightheaded from his messed up breathing, Hank dragged him onto his cock and held him there.

"Fuck, swallow! Swallow it all!" Richard started gulping before the taste even touched his tongue. Hank jerked his hips and tipped his head back, moaning and gasping in relief. The best sight by far was the look on Richard's face when he let go and popped off. Unable to swallow it all, trickles ran over his chin and down his neck as he gazed up panting for breath. The chest of his shirt was almost see through from the fluids, but Richard didn't seem to notice as he gasped for breath, flushed and choking. "Did you like that?" Hank smirked, patiently waiting for Richard to register the question.

"Delicious." Hank huffed, petting his damp hair in reward. Just the sight of him on his knees was almost enough to revive him. Almost. Unfortunately, it would take a while. But then, I need that time to prep. Like in cooking, preparation was key.

"Stay here, Richie. I need to get a few things." It seemed he was too befuddled to think up a response as he continued panting, though he did finally wipe his mouth clean. A pity...