Julio – The Growing Years

 by: Miguel Sanchez

© 2006-2008 by the author

The author retains all rights. No reproductions are allowed without the author's consent. Comments are appreciated at...

“Alright guys,” Jay said hugging Ronnie. “Sorry for getting carried away. I’ve missed my man and I’m so proud of what he’s done.”

Ronnie went down to his room and came out with a piece of paper. “Dad, can you read this?”

Chapter 36 

Marco came in with coffee and he fixed me a cup as I sat to read Ronnie’s speech.

It was short but spoke volumes. I handed it to Jay. He and Marco read it and they too had to wipe their eyes. Jay kissed his lover then handed it back to him. “Baby, that was perfect. Some speeches get long winded but that said it all.”

Ronnie kissed his lover then went into the kitchen to start dinner. Steven and Angel came in about an hour later. Ronnie came out and hugged his brother and sister then filled them in on his being named Valedictorian. Angel kissed him at the news. “Ronnie, that doesn’t surprise me at all. You’ve shown us that there isn’t anything you can’t accomplish when you put your mind to it.”

We had dinner then relaxed together and watched several movies before retiring for the night. The next day I received a phone call from Durham regarding the closing on the condo for the boys. I had the attorney send me the papers via overnight mail. I received them the next day then I went to a notary and signed them and enclosed my check for $80,000.

Saturday was quickly upon us and Ronnie was worse than a parent with a child in surgery. By two, Jay took him back into their room and they returned several hours later with Ronnie much more under control. Ronnie was in casual attire because under his gown on stage with all the lights it was going to be very hot.

We all left together for the Convocation Center. Jay and Ronnie stayed together but acted like brothers rather than lovers. I knew he wanted the world to know but we were all hesitant about how society would take them. We were introduced to a lot of his class mates and they were congratulating him on being Valedictorian. Soon it was time for us to take our seats. Pomp and Circumstance started followed by the procession of students. Ronnie was leading the class and I did a head count and there were 25 students in all.

The Dean came out and made his opening remarks welcoming the parents of the students to their graduation. There were a few more speakers then Ronnie got up to deliver his speech.

“Ladies and gentlemen, Professors and Staff of Jonson and Wales, Distinguished Guests and my fellow classmates. I stand here tonight humbled to be selected as Valedictorian. I came here because of my love for cooking and to get an education. We all leave here as chefs ready to head out into the world to make our mark with our different styles of cooking. I wish to thank my family for their love and support and for my Uncle, may god rest his soul. He helped me learn more than just cooking but how to appreciate how it is prepared. I have made so many friends here. I wish every one of you much success in the culinary field. Thank you.”

Everyone stood and applauded at his remarks and I think the Dean was surprised it was short and sweet. Next each student received their diploma. After the closing ceremonies, we were invited to the conference room for refreshments. I made sure I got photographs of him and Jay together in his gown. I saw Jay kiss him quick. “Next year you’ll be doing this again baby.”

I got a photo of the 5 of them together then we got something to eat. The school put on a grand affair. Ronnie told me the junior class was in charge of preparing the meal. Next year, they would be dining here. By 10:30, I could tell Ronnie was starting to fade. We said our goodbyes then headed home.

Sunday everyone took it easy. Angel told Ronnie she was fixing dinner and not even to think about stepping into the kitchen. “Damn sis, remind me never to cross you.”

She stuck her head out of the kitchen waving a wooden spoon like Hanna. “And don’t you forget it either mister.”

Everyone gave a round of cat calls at that one. “Steven, just remember not to step out of line.”

I didn’t mean to make him blush. “She’s really a pussy cat Dad.”

On Monday, we loaded up the Blazer with Ronnie’s things and made the trip to Durham. We checked into the hotel then went to the model site. The sales lady was holding the keys to the house for us. We picked up the keys then looked at the finished place. Angel was in awe of the place. “Man, you guys have a great home.”

The next thing was furnishing the place. I knew a nice furniture store and the sales staff were more than happy with our business. The next stop was for linens and other accessories. By 5, everything had been bought and my credit card got a very healthy workout. We dropped everything back at the house then headed for the hotel.

The next day, Ronnie called Darrel to let him know he was in town and when the furniture was delivered and set up, they’d get together to plan their grand opening.

It took almost three days for us to get the house set up just like Angel wanted. Never try to argue with her on certain things, I’ve learned. We were finished by 3:30 so that night we had a small house warming party. Sleeping was a little tight with Marco in with Jay and Ronnie. Steven and Angel had their own room and I had mine.

The next day, Ronnie was on the phone with Darrel. “Ronnie, everything is ready. I’ve had the place inspected and the new permits have been issued. I’ve put the vendors on notice and they can have food arriving tomorrow.”

I could see Ronnie with a huge grin on his face. “That’s great Darrel. What have you ordered?”

Darrel ran down the list of supplies. I could see Ronnie sitting down scribbling on a piece of paper. After he hung up, it was another 10 minutes before he finally finished. Jay had walked over and was looking over his shoulder. “Wow bro, that menu looks super. Steaks, fish and veal should make for a great opening.”

Ronnie stood up and hugged his lover. “I hope so Jay. Darrel said he’d been wanting to advertise but didn’t know exactly when we’d be opening.”

I looked at my watch then got on the phone to the local newspaper. I placed an advertisement in the local news section and had it run Friday, Saturday and Sunday. Ronnie heard me on the phone. “How much do we own you for that Dad?”

I shook my head. “Consider that a restaurant warming present son.”

Angel started giggling. “Restaurant warming gift Dad?”

She got me giggling with her antics. “Ok, ok sweetie, I’m helping them have a good opening.”

Ronnie came over and hugged me tightly. “Thanks Dad and you better be there all 3 nights.”

I was really taken aback by that statement. “All three nights son? You’re not planning on feeding this crowd on the house are you?”

He stepped back and folded his arms across his chest. “Yes I am Dad and I won’t take no for an answer. You’ve done so much for me as well as Jay, Steven, Angel and Marco. I think this is a fitting way to say thank you Dad.”

I could see his eyes watering a little. “Alright son, we’ll be there and thank you.”

“You don’t have to thank me Dad,” Ronnie said as I pulled him back into my arms. “None of us have said it enough but it’s you we should be thanking. You’ve given us so much; we’ll never be able to repay you.”

By this time Ronnie was crying hard. The others came over and it was a huge group hug. “You say thanks every time you accomplish something. You have all become fine adults that I’m very proud of.”

Angel kissed me saying, “We’ve had a great teacher Daddy. I guess I should let you know that I’ve been taking some courses at the local community college while Steven has been in class.”

I was totally surprised. “Will I have another college grad on my hands?”

She shook her head. “No Daddy, I just wanted a little more knowledge in a few areas. I like working with you and the Foundation but you know what I really want.”

I almost fainted until I let her statement totally sink in. “I know you want to be a Mom love.”

Steven hugged her and kissed he cheek. “Baby, you know we’ve talked about this. Maybe when I get into vet school we can start trying. It’s gonna be hard studying knowing you’re pregnant or I have a child.”

I heard Jay and Marco’s stomach start to rumble. “Are you two trying to say you’re hungry?”

Jay turned and nodded his head. After a brief discussion, we agreed on where to eat and we were off. We had a nice dinner then returned home so Ronnie could get to bed early. He was going to have a very busy weekend and knew long hours came with it.

The morning came earlier than I had expected it would. I heard noise in the kitchen and the smell of coffee. I looked at the clock and it wasn’t 7 yet. I decided to get up and see what was going on. After using the bathroom, I got dressed and went out into the kitchen. Ronnie was in the kitchen cooking breakfast. “Come in Dad, the coffee is ready.”

I fixed myself a cup of coffee and sat at the table. “What time do you have to be at the restaurant?”

Ronnie put the bacon and eggs on the table as Jay and Marco came in. Jay kissed his lover then grabbed some bacon. Ronne slapped his had as Jay stuffed the food into his mouth. “I want to be in there about 8:30. I’m not sure what time the deliveries are arriving.”

I fixed my plate and started eating. “I know you’re opening at 5 so will you be home after the deliveries?”

Ronnie shook his head as he ate. “I don’t know Dad. If they all get in there early enough I might have some time. I have my things I need to set up but I can do that in between deliveries.”

The boys finished eating breakfast and I started cleaning the dishes. Ronnie hollered, “There are plates in the oven for Steven and Angel when they decide to wake up.”

Ronnie drove to the restaurant and Darrel was already there. “You’re here early.”

Darrel poured Ronnie a cup of coffee and sat it on the table. “Well, I knew the produce company opened early so I wanted to be here in case we were one of their first stops.”

Ronnie took a sip of his coffee and then heard a knock on the back door. “It looks like we were one of their early stops Darrel.”

It took them about 20 minutes to get the order in and put up. By 11, everything had been delivered. Ronnie sat down and started going over his menu for the evening. He planned on three beef dishes, 2 different types of fish and a veal dish to see how that would do. Saturday he would vary the menu and start watching what dishes people were ordering and which were flops.

It was nearly two when he and Darrel had prepped everything. All the meat and fish had been sliced and was back chilling. “Darrel, I’m going home and getting a shower.”

Darrel pulled out the newspaper and showed Ronnie the ad that appeared. “There was a misprint and it says we’re opening at 6. I guess that’s ok and we will close at 11.”

Ronnie thought for a moment. “That will work tonight. I’ll have Dad call the paper and tell them about the mix up so it is fixed for tomorrow and Sunday’s edition. I’d kinda like to close by 10:30 so everyone is out by 11:30 at the latest.”

“You’re right Ronnie,” Darrel replied as they headed to the front. “I didn’t like getting home at midnight. I never saw my kids unless school was closed.”

Darrel locked the door then reached into his pocket and handed Ronnie his own sets of keys to the place. “I’ll be back here by 5:30. I want to get a shower.”

Ronnie came home and I was a little surprised to see him. “What’s wrong son?”

“Oh nothing Dad,” Ronnie replied setting a newspaper down. “The paper screwed up and put 6 as the opening so I’m going to get a shower and relax some before going back.”

I looked at the advertisement and damn if they didn’t make a mistake. “OK son, I’m sorry about this. I’ll call them right now and have it corrected it for tomorrow and Sunday’s edition.”

Ronnie was heading to his room. “Thanks Dad. Where are the others?”

He came back out in his all together. “Jay called Doug and found out he was going to be with Alex so he went to see them. Marco, Steven and Angel are out doing some sight seeing. They should all be back by 4 so we’d have time to clean up.”

I saw Ronnie yawn. “Well, if you’re there around 7 that will be fine. I’ll reserve a table for you. I’m going to shower then catch a short nap. Can you wake me by 5 please?”

Jay got back about 3:30 and decided to lay down with Ronnie. I told him I’d be sure they were up at 5. I turned on the TV and found a movie. Marco, Steven and Angel returned about 4:30. “Sorry Dad, someone just couldn’t stop shopping.”

I looked up and saw Angel glaring at Steven. “Now son, don’t you know it’s a woman’s right to shop?”

“Thank you Daddy,” she said smiling at Steven.

I turned off the TV then fixed myself a cup of coffee. “It’s a good thing the restaurant isn’t opening until 6 thanks to a newspaper goof.”

Angel caught the meaning of my words as I saw her slightly red faced. The boys tried to rib Angel but she was an equal adversary. Just then I saw Jay leaning against the wall. “Do you realize you could wake the dead?”

We were all laughing at the goings on and I did forget about Jay and Ronnie sleeping. “Sorry son but you did have to get up in a few minutes any way.”

I heard the shower start and thought Ronnie would have to make it quick. 10 minutes later, he was dressed and heading out the door. “I’ll reserve a table for you Dad.”

We were all ready to leave by 6:45. I didn’t want to arrive right at the crack of 7 so we just took out time. The traffic was a little heavy and it was almost 7:30 when we pulled into the hotel parking lot. When we walked into the restaurant Darrel greeted us. “Miguel welcome, welcome. Ronnie has a table reserved for you.”

I looked around and the place wasn’t totally full, but there was a nice crowd. He had extended his hand to me and I gratefully accepted it. “It’s nice to see you again Darrel. I see you have a nice turnout tonight. I’m sorry about the ad in the newspaper. I called them and they assured me it would be correct in tomorrow’s issue.”

Darrel took us to our table. A waitress then came over and brought us menus and took our drink order. I looked it over and saw my one favorite dishes. I don’t know if Ronnie did this for me but I wasn’t about to pass up veal scaloppini. I also saw T bone and Porterhouse steaks listed as well as fresh salmon stuffed with crab. “What are you all going to have?”

Jay and Marco looked over first. Steven and Angel were still talking quietly as they looked over the menu. “Dad, I’m going with the T bone steak. Marco said he wants the Porterhouse. We remember the last time we tried that other guy’s cooking.”

How could I forget that event filled evening? “I remember all too well that night son. Steven, Angel, have you decided on what you want?”

They were still talking quietly amongst themselves when my question finally sank in. “Well Daddy, I think we’re going to have the salmon stuffed with crab. It sounds decadent.”

I took a sip of my drink and saw our waitress coming towards us. “Have you decided on what you will have for dinner?”

I nodded my head and gave her my order. Jay and Marco were next followed by Steven and Angel. We sat and talked amongst ourselves and the next thing we knew our meals were being served. Ronnie really out did himself tonight. His presentation was superb. I didn’t want to cut into my meal for fear of ruining this masterpiece. Along with the veal scaloppini, I had scalloped potatoes and glazed baby carrots. The meat lovers had a baked potato along with peas and spring onions. Angel and Steven had a baked potato and carrots. As soon as we all tasted our food, Ronnie’s praises were flowing. We all had little samples of each other’s food and none of us were disappointed.

We had finished our dinner when Darrel came out. “Ladies and gentlemen, I wish to thank you all for coming out tonight to celebrate our grand opening. I see some familiar faces here tonight so you know that I was the owner here before. Tonight we reopen with our new owner and Chef Ronnie Sanchez. I’ve heard ooooo’s and ahhh’s coming from a lot of you and that is something I enjoy hearing.”

During Darrel’s talk, I saw Ronnie come out. Darrel finished talking then handed the microphone over to Ronnie. I saw him looking at me smiling. “Good evening and thank you for coming out. As Darrel said, I did take over this place and from what I have been told you have been enjoying your meals. There is someone here tonight that I have to thank because without him, my dream would have never been possible. Dad, I want to thank you from the bottom of my heart. Without you, my brothers and sister, I don’t think I could have made this happen. I owe you so much. Thank you.”

Darrel took the microphone back and made one more announcement I quietly slipped beside Ronnie and put my arm around his waist. “I have one more little surprise tonight. This place has never really had a formal name to it because I let the hotel be my name. I hope what I’m going to say is alright with our new owner but I think a fitting name for this restaurant should be Luiz’s.”

Ronnie turned at stared at me then buried his face into my chest. “Oh Dad, how’d he know?”

I held him as he was overcome by emotions. “Darrel called me. He wanted an idea for a name to the restaurant. I thought the name would be fitting.”

“Daddy, you don’t know how fitting it is. It’s as if I have his blessing. Thank you so much.”

He looked over at the table and the other were also smiling and nodding their heads in approval.

Just then, the waitress brought over desert for us. It was Luiz’s German Chocolate Cake.  Darrel served us coffee and we all sat and talked as the place wound down for the evening. “Miguel, this was a wonderful Grand Opening. Ronnie worked really hard but I’d like to hire some assistants so he doesn’t have to be a one man crew back there.”

Ronnie sat beside Jay and he looked exhausted. “I heard that Darrel and yes, that is a good idea. I can put a call into Johnson and Wales to see if there are any students not happy with their job offers. I knew them pretty well but didn’t know where everyone was from.”

Jay and Marco went into the back and helped the others get the place cleaned so they could close up for the night. Saturday and Sunday were repeats of Friday with the restaurant doing a very brisk business. On Saturday, there was a line waiting for tables so we didn’t sit around after we were finished. Each night, Ronnie came home very tired but thrilled at the way the place seemed to be jumping.

Monday he called the school and there were in fact several grads not happy so Ronnie got their information then called each person. After interviewing each one, Ronnie hired three people. One, a female named Cindy, had glowing recommendations from the school He decided to make her his Assistant. The other two were good young chefs in their own right but they liked the idea of working under someone like Ronnie and Cindy so they could learn more.

Tuesday morning I needed to return home as I needed to check the mail and my practice. Marco decided to stay down there for a little while longer. He would be leaving for California in a little over a month so I knew he wanted to spend as much time with the others as he could.

Steven and Angel decided to come home so they could have some quiet time to themselves. I also had a feeling she was going to want to check on the state of the Orphanage and the Hotel.

To be continued...

Posted: 07/04/08