2020-03-07 - Twins and Beautiful Brisket

Working in the kitchen is Faith's thing usually. Today though, she's filling in at the curved bar. Except for this moment. She's in the back cutting up some limes and lemons and gathering a jar of cherries and a few other things.

Stefhan comes in wearing his typical business suit to continue his professional look, and also keep himself warm from the cold outside. The local CEO had heard of a local eatery, and this is one he actually has not been to. When he peers around, a small smile forms on his face and he inhales the strong aroma of smoked meats. "Delightful." He says as he takes a step in. Seeing a familiar face from the dance event last night, he offers a wave in Faith's direction and begins to walk over. "I didn't know if I'd be luck enough to see you so soon." He greets, "Did you have fun for the rest of the the evening? It was quite a dance performance."

Grace is also at the bar. Most likely having brewed some coffee or tea earlier. Now with Faith running to the back she end up cutting limes and lemons for her sister. Thus the greeting from Stefhan actually has her eyes widen some as she studies him. Probably realizing what has happened she just smiles. "Oh, hi." Tilting her head as she cut some more, glancing to the backroom before looking to Stefhan, "I have fun most evenings." Offered with a little giggle.

Faith isn't in the back too terribly long. It takes very little time to collect the cherries and pineapple in their jars from a shelf in the storeroom. Dressed in her usual uniform of a black tee with Firehouse emblazoned across the front and Meat. Fire. Beer. printed below it. "Here you go," she calls out to her sister as she comes out. It's then she notices Stefhan and her eyes widen. The jars are hurriedly placed down and she lifts a hand to check her hair is straightened and her shirt isn't tucked in all awkwardly. "Hi," she says softly, still terrible at trying to flirt. There's a cheesy smile curving over her features. Now what to say? The silence stretches before she blurts out, "How did you find me?" She means it in a good way!!

Stefhan hears two somewhat familiar voices, then he takes a step back to look at two familiar faces. He coughs a little and looks like he's getting a bit disorientated. But, it's a Firehouse, yes...yes there's a pole and he reaches out for it to try to steady themselves. "Holy...holy....there are, I need to get my vision checked how, can there be two, in the same place, at the same time? Here I thought the food would be good but.." he then fails miserably at being subtle, "I would love to ask the lady I saw last night out for a good dinner or a drink sometime but, now I don't know what to do!" Hopefully, he's not this blunt with his clients.

Grace does grin a bit before gesturing to Faith, about the lady he met last night. Her comment probably giving her away anyhow. A reassuring smile offered to Faith as well. "And thanks." Taking the stuff that Faith brought, to work some on them while the other two get to talk.

With amusement at first, Faith casts a surreptitious look towards her sister. It had been awhile since someone was so stunned at their complete likeness to each other. The amusement settles after a few moments and after an indulgent look given to her sister, she faces Stefhan. "At the Firefly? With the shots and the bots and the O'Douls?" Then she adds probably needlessly. "It was me. You're asking me out?" It had been forever since she'd dated!

Stefhan still feels his charms slipping him so it may well take a while for him to regain his true senses. He's floundering worse than a fish out of water and the pole in the restaurant seems to be his bet friend at the moment. Clinging to it though, he manages to stay balanced and shouts like a true nerd, "Yes yes!" he exclaims, "I want to ask you out, you but, I want to ask the right one!" But, he's not as weak in the knees as he figured he would be and he just grumbles, "I think I need a drink."

Kim comes into the restaurant taking a glance around seeing how busy it is. She doesn't want to bother the twins too much at work. Still she's also somewhat hungry. Giving a wave to Grace and Faith as she heads in. There is also Stefhan and he gets a wave as well as she gets closer.

Grace does just smile as she listens to the conversation. Making something for Stefhan to drink. With the ingredients and the surprise, he get something fresh and uplifting. "Here you go, first one can be on us." Winking. Hey, Faith seem excited about him after all. Smiling over as she spot Kim as well, giving her a small wave.

He seemed off balance a little and Faith laughs at the shouts. "If you're uncertain which is the right one, you could ask a question only one of us would know maybe?" Casting a quick look at her twin, she grins. "Grace, stay out of my head too." A playful wink to her then upon seeing Kim, she waves to her, "Hi Kimmy, welcome to the Firehouse. It's great to see you." Reaching for the drink that Grace made for Stefhan, she offers it over to him with a lopsided smile. "On the house," she relays to him. "Would you like to sit at the bar? I'm due a break, we can talk a little?"

Stefhan continues to look like a baffling idiot but he's glad his feet didn't give out from under him. "Oh I'd love that, bar, yeah, me....me bar." He is an educated man right? Why speak Neanderthal? "Talk...talk, me like, talk. Oh shit." he grumps then aha he recognizes Kim and waves, "Small town isn't it?" Dur, and he has a Masters degree, that isn't helping right now though.

Kim with reaching Grace gives her a hug "Things going okay today?" turning towards Faith and Stefhan "Heya Faith. It's good to see you as well. Thought I'd stop by to say hi to you two and get something to eat." giving her a smile. Stefhan she hasn't seen him like this "Are you ok? I heard your shout. And well usually your one for more words." nodding her head "It is a small town. This is my favorite place to eat though. Such incredible staff here."

Grace snickers and does a dramatic sigh to Faith, "Fine." Then a warm smile to her sister. A brief whisper in passing, letting her move to talk to Stefhan some. A brief hug probably offered to Faith as well. Nodding to Kim's words. "Been ok so far." Grinning about Stefhan. "I think we scared him." She jests.

"Here," Faith will help guide him to one of the chairs at the bar, hiding her amusement all the while. "Yeah we can sit here and talk if you'd like." Sliding into the seat next to him. Lifting her eyes she smiles at Kim. "It's nice seeing you again too. Glad you stopped by. I recommend the brisket today, it's really good." Grace's hug is returned and the whispered words draw a sheepish smile and a bob of her head. "We stunned him, being identical and all. He wasn't expecting two of us."

Stefhan takes in a deep breath and exhales, "No, I...I really wasn't. I mean that happens in like what, one in a million cases?" He then smiles at Faith and doesn't feel like such a fool now. The beautiful and kind lady apparently is nice enough to help him take a seat, "Thank you, and yes, I would enjoy a chat very much if you don't mind. Brisket though, it's been ages since I've had that. How long has your place been in business? My business, it's still quite new. I think I have a reason for getting settled. I recently moved my son in with me. I'm very happy about that."

Well as they say, follow your nose when it comes to good smoked meats.. and Devlin appears to be filling that cliche in the moment as he draws in a deep breath, followed by a smile. He starts making his way in and spots Kim, "Hello Kim.. food smells good here."

Stefhan grumbles and goes to check his cellphone. "Excuse me." he groans, "Business."

Kim smiles at Grace "That's good. At least better than it being bad. Oh well I am sure he'll recover at some point." glancing over as Faith escorts Stefhan to the bar. "It's hard to stay away. Hmm brisket sounds nice. I'll have to have some. With Faith's further explanation she giggles "I remember having a similar reaction the first time I saw you both in the place. Had to do a double take even with being warned." just staying close y Grace to give them space to chat. Devlin coming in she waves to him "Hi there Devlin. The food is even better than it smells."

Grace grins and nods about not expecting two of them. "Well, here we are." Grace offers and snickers some. Looking to Devlin, maybe seen him in passing, but for now letting Kim handle that conversation. "Want me to send word to the back?" She asks about anyone wanting brisket. After Faith's suggestion. She does take Kim's order on one after all.

There hadn't been much of an effort to cook or grocery shop or do any of the things a proper adult would do. It was a good thing Stephanie's house was relatively clean. She would do little things in the midst of her recovery but cooking was the one thing that fell to the wayside. So in recent times, takeout and meals out by herself were commonplace since her release from the hospital. While she doesn't feel particularly social, Steph goes to the Fireplace, knowing there is a solid chance of seeing familiar faces. It doesn't matter, since she has plans to order takeout.

"Probably something like that. The odds of having identical mirror image twins. Maybe even rarer." Faith offers to Stefhan to help him along with his initial stunned surprise at there being two of them. He gets called away before she is able to respond to much, but it's something for later. Instead, she stands and greets Kim with a hug as she stands beside Grace. Walking over, she smiles at Devlin, "What can I get you? A drink for starters? Something from the bar?" Reaching into the half apron around her waist with wrapped straws, a order book and pen in it. "I recommend the brisket, it's so good. It comes with two sides and hot rolls." Seeing the newest arrival she smiles warmly, "Help yourself to a seat, Grace will help you." Tag, Grace. You're it!

Devlin walks towards Kim, "Me.. I love sampler platters to start..." he then pauses noticing twins. "Oh.. interesting, Hello there." He says to both of them perhaps. "Gets more interesting Kim." He pauses near Kim and then notices Stephanie.. "Fleeing hospital food? I'd call this a step in the right direction."

Kim giggles again at Grace's comment "Yep. I'm a little biased as which is the best one." winking at her girlfriend. Starting to consider where to sit when Stephanie comes in. Of course giving Faith a return hug. Before she heads over to Steph offering her a hug "Hi there! So good to see you Stepie. How are you doing?" interested in her friends well being. Tilting her head to Devlin "Interesting is one way of putting it. But it's so very lucky they are both such wonderful people."

Stephanie hears Devlin's greeting first, then she finds herself hugged by Kim. "Just trying to readjust to life on the outside, with real food and all. They decided to let me out after a week, that was nice," she says as a general comment to respond to both Devlin and Kim, "Haven't really had the motivation to cook for myself lately."

Grace does move to Devlin as she is tagged in. "Happy to help." Offered to Faith. Being ready for any orders and so on. A smile and wave offered to Stephanie as well. "Hi. And we're happy to have you, I am sure it's nice to get out from there. And we have good food here, so we are glad to see you here." She offers with a smile. An amused grin at Kim's wink as well, but for now trying to act professional, even if the people coming in are friends.

"Ah yes.. thank you," He says to Grace, "If you have a sampler platter, that would be what I'd like to start with along with what ever fresh vegetables of the day you have. And also a mug of a good lager." Devlin then moves to take a seat near Kim, "How are things with you, Kim?" He glances towards Stephanie for a moment with a cock of his head and expression that gives a sense of, wha'cha standing there for?

Kim nods to Stephanie "It is a bit much isn't it? Having to readjust that is. But it's good that you are getting out now. I had a bit of trouble with motivation myself. Good thing we have such great friends" nodding to Grace's comment about good food. "Truly one bite and the food will erase memory of hospital food straight from your head." she offers brightly. Another giggle to Grace's grin, still she is trying to behave herself. Not wanting to distract from work and there are people she is serving. "You know we should all seat together." at least the ones not working. She pulls out a chair for Stephanie and takes a seat at Devlin's table. "Things...are improving. I had some awful nightmares, but overall better. Reevaluating what is important in my life. How about you Devlin?"

Stephanie, who had been in the middle of considering ordering takeout, decides to approach the table where Devlin and Kim were seated to check in. "I was considering takeout, but I guess I can manage a meal with everyone." She slides into the seat Kim offers. "I haven't really been in the mood to see people much." Listening to Kim mention nightmares, Stephanie is a little reluctant to speak up and seems to be avoiding eye contact.

After asking Devlin's order, she realizes he wasn't quite ready yet so Faith steps back to allow him freedom to go between the others there in case they seat themselves together, any of them. She walks over to the window between the kitchen and the front and smiles at the cook, making sure they had things well in hand back there. When they have all seated themselves, she walks over with Grace again, "Except last night?" Faith lightly teases Stephanie. "Got your dance on, it was fun. Until it wasn't."

Grace nods after having written down what Devlin wants. "Either of you want anything?" She asks Kim and Stephanie. Smiling to Faith as well. Raising a brow though about her and Stephanie having run into one another. The brisket Kim asked for had been ordered already, most likely.

Stefhan tries to finish up the phone call to make his way back into the group. Maybe it's grown since he's had to leave or maybe nothing new has happened? Hopefully he's started to regain his composure and charm, especially since he talks on the phone to a potential client, "You may want to consider a direct connect to the ISP with an Ethernet." he yacks on through the phone, "Wifi normally does reduce your speed but, I can always take a look at the CPU itself. Can I call you later to schedule a time?" He tries to make a mental note on things before rejoining.

Faith's comment earns a soft chuckle from Stephanie. "You know, sometimes, you just gotta try celebrating life," she vaguely replies before addressing Grace. "I'll just have a water for now. What would you recommend to eat?"

Devlin smiles a bit as the order is taken. He answers Kim, "Doing pretty well. Keeping busy between work, practice, and enjoying my time." He grins a bit, "Like chilling with friends.. new found family.. and on a occasion keeping someone out of trouble."

"Maybe some time with us will put you into a more social mood." Kim says getting her bright smile back. "Plus food always tastes better with company." she does notice Stephanie's avoidance of eye contact after she talks about how she is. "Things are really alright. Have you had any as well?" she raises a eyebrow at Faith's comment "What made it not fun Faith?" glancing back to Stephanie "It's wonderful that you were able to get your dance on. Did you have fun?" tapping her fingers on the table at Grace's question. "Just iced tea I think...oh some extra barbeque sauce to go with the brisket please." getting out her phone to do a little texting while talking. "That's great to hear. Enjoying your time is important. Maybe we should schedule a game night with everyone. I probably have a few party games could be fun."

Grace smiles and nods, "Oh, as Faith mentioned to Kim earlier" As well as Stefhan, but Grace probably never caught his name. "The Brisket is quite nice." Once everyone seem satisfied with orders she will smile and bow her head before offering it to the kitchen. Of course waiting to see if Stephanie did want some food before running off. Disappearing for a moment.

"The slippery part made it not fun, but everything before that was great." Faith offers to Stephanie and Kim. Looking towards the door as Stephan makes his return. She doesn't interrupt his phone call, but she does leave the trio at the table to talk and sort of follows Grace over as she turns in the orders to the kitchen and then takes over the bar area, getting a cloth and wiping things down. "I don't know how you wait tables, this is why I usually hide back in the kitchen, cooking."

Stefhan seems to be in a better mood and he pockets his phone after a few additional words are exchanged. "I guess any new client is a new dollar that I can reinvest." He observes. Then he waves at Grace and Faith and tries not to be too baffled about who is who. "So, about this brisket. I might have mentioned that it's been quite a long time since I've had such an amazing meal. I'm far from a good cook myself but, that sounds amazing." He puts his credit card down at the side of the table, not quite knowing if a payment is needed in advance, "My apologies for having to leave." A wave offered to Kim as he asks, "How have you been?"

"I might have gotten a little carried away with the dancing and the celebrating but after getting out of the hospital for things like hypothermia and broken ribs, it's kind of nice to let loose. Even if the slippery floor wasn't always fun." Steph pauses and adds, "Yeah, I'm in the mood for some ribs. Can I get a rack of your baby back ribs?"

"Dancing.. huh?" Devlin teases Stephanie, "Ok.. and a rack of ribs, sounds like you are starving.. going to get some air with that food?" He chuckles a bit and comments having noticed Stephan, "Swear that guy is expecting a Sergeant Major to inspect him or something.." He pauses for a moment, "Oh.." he looks at his smart phone and then sighs, "Good.. someone else's problem."

Grace does check her phone some before putting it away as Faith show up to talk, snickering some. "You are doing fine." She assures her. Moving to get the drinks and such ready for the table. "Mainly I talk and carry stuff." She suggests. Once she has it all she will be ready to move off. Seeing Stefhan returning she does try to see where he is going. Seeing him at the table. "Want to serve the table?" She asks and grins at Faith. "Oh, are you around later to talk?" Probably meaning up at the loft. "Or tomorrow perhaps." Grinning as she glances back to Stefhan. Then looking to the table and beaming at Kim as well. Playing some on the phone while waiting to see which Faith want to do. Leaning a bit on the bar to look around. She did take the order of ribs for Stephanie as well.

Kim keeps multitasking with her phone while paying attention to everyone "Slippery part? A little too much to drink then? Really glad you had fun though." she comments to Faith before she heads off. "I've been doing okay. Just got out of the hospital not too long ago. I swear if my head gets knocked about much more I'll be like a second home." she laughs making a joke about it. Have to be able to find at least a little humor in life. Step clarifies more "No you deserve it Stepie. Good to remember there are nice things in life...oh slippery floor. Like a foam thing. Doesn't seem like a great thing to have on a dance floor. Hopefully no one got hurt." she laughs at Devlin's comment about Stefhan "No kidding right?" she says quietly to him "But people dress as they like. Nothing wrong with it. I hate dressing up myself." Eyes going over to Grace as she leans on the bar. Before back to her phone.

"Yeah, I am starving for real food, and I can always take leftovers home," Stephanie explains about the rack of ribs, grinning at Devlin. Kim's suggestion of hanging out lingers and finally Stephanie considers it. "And Kim, you know my house is always open for hosting, since I never really have anyone around." She smiles quietly at Kim's comment about deserving to her celebration.

Stefhan sits down at the table, assuming that it's close to sit near the group itself. "Hospital?" He hears part of the conversation, "Why has everyone been in the hospital lately? Flu season has already peaked, yes? Though if heads are getting knocked about well." He pauses to order a soda, "I sincerely hope everyone is getting better." A slight nod is offered to Stephanie as he says, "Looks like you were having fun last night."

"Tomorrow I have plans with our brother. Tonight? I have a lot of time." Faith tells Grace at the question. "I don't mind watching the bar while you deliver the drinks you just made for them." Lifting the cloth again, she wipes things down but they are close enough to have a conversation with those seated at the larger table. Catching the wave from Stefhan, she returns one with a smile. "Glad you came back."

A bit of a chuckle comes from Devlin, "Some folks have a talent for needing my services and a ride to the hospital.. to include my partner." He then pulls his hat out of his pocket to show Combat Medic Badge on it. "These days, I am a paramedic.. I wish business was not so good of late. Guess the winter is bringing out the accident prone in people."

Grace smiles and nods to Faith. "I see, perhaps we can talk some tonight then." She offers and then off with the drinks. Setting it down at the table and sliding each drink to the right person. "There you go. The food should come soon. Anything else anyone wants? And I am glad you are all out of the hospital." Standing nearby for now.

"Oh that would be great too. We should definitely have a game night at your place. Then rotate with mine and maybe Devlin's. So no one gets overwhelmed." Kim says and thinks about it a bit more "Say how about I come by tomorrow, we can hang out?" she offers to Steph. Glancing a bit back to Stefhan "Just some bad luck. I get the feeling that the hospital is a very busy place though. But yeah at least the people here are getting better." when Grace comes back to the table with drinks "Oh thank you Grace!" moaning out the name before giggling and covering her mouth. While her cheeks redden.

"Hey, Dev, you can't plan for accidents," Stephanie replies with a shrug, letting the comment hang in the air. "Just more water please," Steph tells Grace when she asks if anyone else wants anything. "And yeah, of course, Kim, we can totally hang out. Text me. I haven't been cleared to work yet."

Stefhan smirks and says, "Odouls for me, if you have that. If you do not I understand. The less alcohol I drink, normally the calmer I am."

"I have a lot of time tonight before and after we close up. I'm used to cooking, it feels weird to be out here with everyone. Not bad though," Faith casts a surreptitious look towards Stefhan. When Grace goes off to deliver the drinks, Faith again checks with the kitchen. The brisket is ready, the ribs are almost. She starts piling the plates on a big tray for Grace to take over to the table, along with any sides they ordered.

In a mock pained voice, "They made me drive once... just once.. it was horrible..." Devlin smirks a bit as it is well known with in the department he prefers not to drive the rigs as a habit. He sighs, "I just do not know what I will do if that happens again..." Oh yeah, what is next Crocodile tears? He then takes a pull on his beer. "In the meanwhile.. get well fast and not a bad time to try some different meditation techniques."

Grace smiles to everyone then blinking some at Kim before snickering. Nodding to Stefhan, "I will check." Nodding to Stephanie about more water as well. She will move to get a pitcher with water. Most likely finding the beer for Stefhan as well. Taking the food from Faith. "Sounds good. And it is a bit different, but it can be fun. I do like staying behind the bar sometimes, and just play around with all the things." She says and then moving off to serve the table some food.

Kim moves her head away with her cheeks going back to their normal color. She smiles at Stephanie "Great and I will. It will be fun. Should I plan on bring anything? Oh have you ever had homemade Japanese food?" looking Devlin's way "You poor thing. What is next they'll expect you to do your job. Nasty, nasty people. So Devlin are you in for a game night?" getting a amused smile at Grace's reaction before eyes back down to her phone.

Stefhan takes a moment and look over toward the cooking area. From where he sits he likely can't make anything out so he looks back at the table. "I imgine the ladies stay fairly busy here. Soon it will be summer before you know it and that means so many tourists. Dealing with them could be quite...interesting."

"Oh yeah, O'Douls," Faith remembers the drink and watches as Grace delivers it. The ribs are done, so the kitchen announces with that small push button bell thing, and she collects the plate and sides and walks over to deliver it to the table. "Ribs are a great choice too," sliding them onto the table and offering a smile. Two bottles of barbecue follow, one is spicy one is mild, both are labeled. "I wasn't sure which was preferred, so I brought both." Leaning a hip against a nearby empty table, she smiles at the group. "Game night? That sounds interesting."

Steph's eyes meet Dev's as he talks about driving, giving him a smirk to match his. "Yeah, it's a terrible idea to let you drive. I'll try to stay out of trouble from now on." There's a pause. "I would love try to homemade Japanese food!" Steph comments playfully at Kim as talk of game night spreads through the table.

Devlin chuckles a bit there. "Yeah and now you know why they won't let me in the pilot's seat of a Blackhawk.." He smiles, "Though.." he taps his chin.. "a 757 is tempting.." Once he gets his food he starts eating as if it was a campaign.. easy to wonder if he is taking time to taste and/or enjoy.

Grace smile and listens, "Oh, game night sounds fun." She agrees with several others. "It is quite good." She offer to Steph about homemade japanese food. "Kim has made me some a few times." Grinning. Moving to grab some more napkins or any other things they might want, extra salt shakers or what else could be wanted. Since it does seem a bit slow they can give some extra attention to their friends. Moving to get water from behind the bar and bringing some for Faith as well. Grinning at Devlin, glad to see him seemingly enjoying the food.

Stefhan takes a moment and scribbles something down on a piece of paper. He folds it and whispers to an employee to deliver the note to Faith. All the time he watches the server, hoping the message gets through.

Kim looks up to Faith "You'd be welcome to be there as well. Video or board games is what I'm thinking. I'm always glad to get a chance to spend some time with you. And not just because you are my love's sister." she turns her head to Stephanie and nods "Good. I will bring some then. Ah any ingredients you don't like in food? I can always mod it a bit." food does come and she goes for the spicy sauce. Because she wants for her body to regret this later. Sampling a bit before readjusting the napkin on her lap, just keeping it under the table for now. And it means she only has one hand to operate her phone. "I know you like eating my cooking. If only I could make other dishes. Lucky for me there is at least one wonderful cook at home." she grins back to Grace.

There is a beep from Devlin's phone, he takes a look and sighs, "Well.. damn.. got to run. Game night does sound great Kim. Can I get this in a togo box fast?" And he starts pulling out bills. "they need someone that can repel into a wooded mountain side fast... I'm the only one qualified.. "

"Night, Dev. See you at Game Night." Stephanie says between bites.

Stefhan tries to look over to make sure Faith's message was received but then he looks at his watch and says, "It's time, what a pity." With a shake of his head he makes sure that the payment for the meal is made and gathers his things. "Ladies, have a good night." He says, "Business calls."

Faith takes the folded paper and looks confused until she reads it. Totally enchanted with the contents, she lifts her eyes to find Stefhan and the smile blossoms. The response.. how could she respond to it? Biting her lip she considers it and reads the paper one more time. Kim's invitation was noted and she bobs her head once in agreement for game night. The water from Faith is placed down on the empty table beside the group and she approaches Stefhan, the smile still there, but her steps more tentative. "Yes," she tells him, even with him on his way out. Then he has to go, and she watches him, a glance to Grace with flushed cheeks. Grace would likely find out what it was about later though.

Grace grins, "Well yeah. I try to keep one cook around at all times." Grinnning at both Kim and Faith. Studying the former for a moment before looking to the others. "Good night and thank you." Offered to Devlin. Getting the to go box for him and taking the money. Moving behind the bar to put it away. Talking to the others from behind the bar. Cleaning it up some and probably serving some people that come up rather than being served to their table. Starting to make some coffee and tea as well. Then while waiting she will lean on the counter. Giving a wave to Stefhan when he leave.Seeing the message and interaction. A knowing look from Grace to Faith, giving her a single nod. As if confirming the topics for tonight.

Kim smiles at the acceptance to the invitation. Of course the flushed cheeks and note has her curious. Which there is very little more dangerous than a curious Kim. "Good news?" she asks of Faith. Waving goodbye to both Devlin and Stefhan as they get up to leave. A few more bites before she's back to her phone. "So Stepie you didn't say if there are stuff you don't like. I do always like to tailor my cooking to what others like. Oh and breakfast, lunch, or dinner food what do you prefer?" vague plans swirling in her head. Before she smirks up at Grace "I know how much you like a good meal. And damn I was going to pay for everyone...people are so fast with cash huh?"

"Hmmmm? I'm willing to try anything you'd like to bring, Kim. I've never had Japanese food before." Stephanie replies absentmindedly to Kim with a slight smile, scarfing down her ribs. "This is delicious."

"I need to go do a few things in the kitchen." Or maybe reread the note or something. Faith isn't clear exactly. The look from Grace is met with another sheepish smile before she nods to Kim. "Good news. I'm sure Grace will tell you about it once she knows." And walking on the clouds beneath her feet, she strolls all casually to the kitchen and when she's out of sight, there's a very feminine squeak of happiness from that general area. Someone's happy about something!

"What's with her?" Steph asks Grace and Kim as Faith retreats into the kitchen once the squeak is heard, in between bites of ribs.

Grace does smile to Faith, seeing her expression, probably having an idea on what happened. "Take your time." She offers with a playful tone. Just smiling at the squeak. Then looking to the others and bringing some tea and coffee. "Whichever you want, feel free. Just some experimental, on the house." Smiling to Kim as well. "I do indeed." OFfering a wink. Then to Stephanie, "Oh, I think she got some good news."

Kim blinks a little in surprise "You haven't? Okay I hope I wouldn't disappoint then. My cooking isn't as good as my mother's." Kim says to Stephanie with a shrug of her shoulders. Giggling as she looks back to her phone. A look back to Faith and her trademark bright smile at the words and Faith's expression "Wonderful! I can't wait to hear about from Grace later. I could have idea already, but I'm excited to hear the full story." looking back to Stephanie "I think the tie suit and tie asked her out. Could be way off base there. A Grace experiment well that is something she has to try as she sips at it. Eyes going over Grace as she delivers the drink. Her cheeks getting red again at the words to her smiling at her and with a tiny gulp. No words offered.

Stephanie remains mostly silent in between bites of food, hungry and really thrilled at having real food for a change. When Kim finally explains the situation, Stephanie simply nods, masking whatever internal reaction she might have to the explanation, shoving food in the mouth rather than saying she was happy for Faith.

Grace does let Stephanie eat, assuming that hunger might be the main reason for her not really commenting. A smile to Kim as well, and a wink. "Is it good?" She asks about the brews she made. Faith getting a moment for now. Probably having given the cooks in the back a scare. Playing some with the phone before taking away any dishes, if they seem finished with it, and probably any plates left behind from the others that were eating before.

After enjoying about half of her rack of ribs, Stephanie pauses her eating and says, "Wow, these are amazing. Do you mind packing this up for me, Grace? I should get one more meal out of this. This is definitely amazing."

Kim eats more of the brisket with more sauce. She doesn't even consider the effects of her words on Stephanie and really doesn't notice maybe a deeper reaction. "So anything else you want to bring? I guess I've never really asked if you are into video games at all." The smile and wink bring more color to her cheeks "Very good...oh the drink. Yes I like it. It's interesting and you know I like interesting. But think is something I'd love to taste again. The drink...the drink." she adds quickly.

Grace smiles and nods. Snickering and offering a cheek peck to Kim. "Be back soon." Heading off to get box for Stephanie and put some ribs in. She won't be gone too long, but it does take a moment.

"Haven't really been able to get into video games. It wasn't something I had growing up and I just never got into it as an adult," Stephanie explains as she gives mouths a 'thank you' to Grace, before adding, "I mean feel free to bring whatever you'd like, I have a TV to set it up on."

Kim flushes more at the cheek kiss "Sure. I'll count the seconds." and she probably will. Looking back to Stephanie "Well I can bring two switchs. I mean who doesn't like playing Mario Kart! Alright I could be a bit of a nerd. There are still fun things with games. I'm sure we can find something you like. Plus being able to talk about stuff." checking her phone again after talking. Some more quick finger motions and swipes.

Grace smile to Stephanie reassuringly. She is gone for a bit, so it gives the duo at the table quite a bit of time to talk. When she is about to return she does stop by the bar to serve some people and checking on things before returning with the box, seems some ribs already in there. "There you go." She offer with a smile.

Stephanie says to Grace, "Thank you." As she clears her throat, she adds, "I should get going. I'm feeling mostly better...but still a little sore. I think I overdid recently. I think I'm going to go get some rest."

Kim as soon as Stephanie says she is getting ready to go. She hugs the woman "Try not to overdue it anymore. Tomorrow though I'll text you. Stepie I'm worried about you." she says rather honestly "Get some rest. We will have fun later." sitting back down after. Her gaze going back up to Grace with a goofy smile. "So very kind."

Grace smiles and will offer a hug as well, "Take care Stephanie. Get more rest and recover quickly. Hope to see you again soon." Looking back to Kim. "Want anything else for now? Or just sit and enjoy the brew?" She asks and smiles. Looking around some and will take a seat, since it is calm right now.

After hugging Kim, and Grace, Stephanie grabs her food and leaves.

Kim purses her lips at the question. "No I'm good for now." putting her other hand back on the table eating some more and sipping at the drink. "You make so many wonderful things. I always look forward to tasting your experiments. At the very least they are interesting." she beams over to Grace as she has seat.

Grace smiles and nods. "Goodie, I can keep you company for a little bit." She offers, glancing around some before smiling back to Kim. "So, anything else that you have done today? Or were you working as well?"

Kim grins "I like when you keep me company. I still need to pay for Stepie's food. Poor dear." she shakes her head for moment and ouch it still hurts her. Then suddenly she is having a hard time consecrating. "Nothing much. My boss yelled at me for hurting myself. Not like I can tell him the truth. I just said a bookcase had fallen on me. Still I did some work...because you know me. My work is my passion."

Grace nods, "Want me to count it up now?" She ask about paying. "Are you okay?" Perhaps noticing any wince. Frowning about her boss. "Well, that is stupid. Not your fault." She suggests and clears her throat smiling to Kim. "Want me to send a message when I'm coming home? Unless I stay the night with Faith, it depends. Sorry." THen biting her lower lip.

Kim thinks about the question "Sure, not like all the money doesn't end up in the same place." she gives a sigh "Things still hurt. I'm okay though it's reminder of what I know I am not capable of. Still I saved Stepie and Alexander...so it was worth it." shaking her head once more "No is my fault. But just I can't say what really happened. Luckily I have some many vacations days saved up." again she is having a hard time focusing. She shrugs "Sure message me. If you stay with Faith...you know I understand. I don't want to disrupt your time with her. I know what she means to you." again Kim is being sincere.

Grace smiles and nods to Kim. "I am glad that you are all still here at least." She offers and smiles a bit brighter. "Will do." She assures her and offer to take her hand.

Kim blinks before answering "I was so afraid I wouldn't be. I give Hera a last message for you just incase I didn't make it. You were the last thought on my mind before it tried to consume me." Perhaps that isn't a comfort, but it's the truth. Lacing her fingers in return to the taking of her hand "I love you so much."

Grace smiles and nods, "Hera told me at the hospital. I didn't know what to do." She says and sighs. "Then you answered. Glad for that." Taking her hand and offering a squeeze and biting her lip. A soft kiss. "Sorry, couldn't help myself."

Kim slowly shakes her head slowly "It's fine. You didn't run into my dad did you?" surely she didn't and that would a completely funny scene for the future. "Ah I was..." she bites her lips before she can focus again. "I was aware enough to answer you." the kiss is taken and returned "I can't help myself around you either. And this experience has showed me what I truly need. It is you. Always you."

Grace snicker but shake her head. "Nope." Smiling then and nodding. "You are amazing." She tells her in return and squeeze herh and and offer a kiss. "So sweet." She add and smiles brightly.

Kim breathes a sigh of relief "Good. Not that you shouldn't meet him...just that eh I've already said things about him." she blushes at being called amazing. The kiss accepted "Not as sweet as you are. I really..." her fingers grip the table. Eyes looking back up to Grace.

Grace does shift a bit in her seat and nodding. "I know. In time." She offers then smiling at the blush. Kissing her again and staying close. "Are you okay?" Whispering a bit to her.

Kim nods "Yeah...I don't want you to think I am hiding you from my family. I'm not." another kiss and Kim is forgetting that Grace is at work. The whispered comment she sighs "I think I am. In your presence I am okay. Outside of it I just keep remembering what happened. How stupid I was...how I could have never seen you again." still it is Kim so these thoughts don't last long. "You are my everything." she says and then lowers her voice.

Grace smiles and nods. "I know." She assures her. Giving her hand a squeeze. "You helped everyone, and you are safe." She assures her. Listening and smiling. "You are too sweet to me." Even though she hasn't answered a specific question yet though.

Kim is sure taking a long time to adjust herself. Some words bubble up "I am now. I just love you so much." and she truly means it.

Grace does cough a bit and drinks some of Kim's brew, if any is left. "You okay? Find it? I was thinking of going on break for a bit, if you want to hang out for a little bit."

Kim is finally finished with her 'napkin'. And there is some left of Grace's latest experiment. She blinks a bit "Of course I'm okay. And I think I found it...do you think I did? Sure a break. Do you want to go up the loft for old times sake? To you know hang out." she just smiles up to Grace "I know you want to talk to Faith so, I understand if you just want me to go home."

Grace smiles and watches her, "Good. I was thinking we could go home briefly. I need to grab something. Then I can drive back here to finish and meet up with Faith." She suggests. Shifting some before rising to her feet. Moving to hug Kim.

Kim grins "Alright go home for a bit. If you don't come back until the morning it's fine. I know how much your time with Faith means...and she just got asked out by Stefhan." at least that is what Kim assumes from the conversation and what she knows about the man. A last of popping brisket into her mouth. She raises as well hugging back "So home for a bit?" she offers her eyes pleading and the whisper just makes her shudder. Speaking softly back.

Grace smiles and nods. After paying and getting things set she will move to go home for a bit. "Ready?" She asks and as soon as Kim is ready, they can leave.