Sam stood and shook Phillip’s hand.  He met the man’s gaze eye to eye and liked him instantly.<br/><br/>“My pleasure . . . I’m Sam . . . Sam Markham.”  He grinned and made his handshake a bit firmer as he spoke.  “...Irene’s husband.”<br/><br/>That seemed to please the Frenchman even more as his smile widened and his other hand was added to their hand shake resting on top of their clasped hands.<br/><br/>“You have made a very wise choice my friend . . . Irene . . . your wife is a very beautiful woman . . . in many ways monsieur.  Congratulations to you both.”  He turned and waved and beckoned Louis back to their table.  “Dinner for these fine people is on the house this evening.”<br/><br/>After releasing Sam’s hand Phillip bent down and kissed Irene on the cheek.<br/><br/>“I’m so happy for you ma cheri.  You truly deserve true love and happiness . . . ” he stood and smiled warmly at Sam.  “...and you Monsieur Markham . . . you have found yourself a wonderful bride.”  He took Irene’s menu from her and handed it to Louis.  “Miss Irene’s very fond of my coq au vin . . . so that is what I shall make for you cheri . . . unless you object?  Sam?  It’s very good . . . like a chicken stew . . . shall I make it for you as well?”<br/><br/>Sam handed his menu to Louis.  “Sure . . . that sounds good.  Thanks for the dinner Phillip.  Perhaps when we celebrate our wedding publicly . . . would you come?”  He glanced at Irene with a smile.  “I know my wife would love to have you and Louie there.”<br/><br/>“Oh oui . . . yes we would be honored.”  Phillip exclaimed as he put his arm around Louis’ shoulder.  “Bon appetit!”<br/><br/>As Phillip bustled off to the kitchen, he asked Louis to confirm their order.  Louis stood looking at Irene and then at Sam and asked if they were settled on the coq au vin.<br/><br/>“He’s very right you know . . . it’s his best dish . . . so shall I say two?  And a bottle of wine with the meal?”<br/><br/>Sam shrugged and looked at Irene.  “It sounds good to me.  How about you Darlin?”<br/><br/><br/><br/><br/>