I let go of his hand, stepped back, then climbed up onto the counter to watch him as he finished the cuts of steak off with balsamic glaze.

"You have the knack for it. I've never been able to cook fillet."

"Pan's got to be hot, and you need to have a good feel for the change in colour," he said, as he sprinkled Parmesan over mine. "Inside or out?" he added.

"Outside, of course. Why be indoors when the day is so lovely?"

"True. Here. I'll grab the tray; you bring some wine."

"'Kay."

I gathered up two glasses and a bottle of Pinot Noir and followed him to...