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An hour later, night was falling The view through the picture s of the cabin was that of an indigo sky blending sloith the e With this for a backdrop, dinner arrived, brought in by a private steward on a rolling cart

Kurt paid the steward, included a generous tip, and then acted as a co a cloth napkin across Hayley’s lap and presenting the wine

“A 2008 Penngrove Cabernet Sauvignon”

“I love a good cabernet,” Hayley said, her eyes sparkling like a child awaiting a present

“I haven’t had this one,” Kurt said “I’m told it’s very smooth, with a hint of licorice and vanilla”

He uncorked the bottle and took her glass, pouring it froood fall helps the wine to aerate,” he said “It speeds up the breathing process But we should still give it a few minutes”

“Why not?” Hayley replied “The poor crushed grapes have been in there for years Be a shaive them a few minutes to soak up the fresh air”

Kurt poured a glass of his own and set the bottle down

Next, he lifted the insulating covers froreen-colored soup with dashes of red was first “Pea-and-haarlic”

“Looks delicious”

Pulling the cover off the second scru dish, Kurt continued, “Braised short ribs with silver-beet gratin And the pièce de résistance…” He re, soaked in sweetened custard and brandy”

“I ht just start with that,” Hayley said “How on earth did you conjure up such fantastic foods on a train out here in the never-never?”

“Platinum service,” Kurt said “And, besides, the chef is a personal friend of mine At least he has been for the last few hours”

She took a deep breath “If this is traveling, perhaps I could get used to it”

Kurt sat down as Hayley sampled the soup