‘She hasn’t really got a leg to stand on now that we’re only there for the prep of a function.’
‘Exactly, but I also think we should go for either an increase in our percentage or an increase in sale prices so that we improve our profit margins.’
‘With the cost of everything going up, we do need to keep an eye on the margins. I’ll do some costings to prove that it’snecessary. But in the meantime, are you sure you want to take on both Diva’s and our own work? We still need at least one other chef.’
‘Absolutely. And I’ve had some thoughts about someone else who might fit the bill.’
‘Oh, don’t you want me to interview Chloe?’
‘No, she phoned me the other day. She’s been offered a job with Angela Markham and she’s already accepted.’
‘Lucky girl. Before I started my own business I would have given a lot to work with her.’
‘I know what you mean. I’m really happy that she has such a good opportunity.’
‘And it will certainly make life for us a lot less complicated. So who else do you have in mind?’
‘There was another chef I worked with in the competition. Chen. He didn’t get through to the banquet and I think his nerves got the better of him. But he’s a good chef and we get along really well. He’s Chinese and does a lot of Asian-British fusion food, which I think would be interesting.’
‘I agree, and is he interested?’
‘I haven’t spoken to him directly. I wanted to catch up with you first. But I do know that he’s not happy where he is, so it might be the right time to approach him. And I’d certainly feel more confident, working with someone I already know.’
‘Give him a ring as soon as possible so we can see if he’s interested, otherwise we’ll have to start looking elsewhere.’
‘Will do.’
‘And in the meantime, how do you feel about considering Mia for the front-of-house position.’
‘Mia from college who works part-time?’
‘Yes. She’s just graduated. This might be a good opportunity for her. It would give her more responsibility than she wouldnormally get in a graduate post, but she’s very level-headed and organised, and I think she’ll do well with a bit of guidance.’
‘Yes, I like her.’
‘She’s also social media savvy, so that could be good for generating business.’
‘It will. Why don’t you sound her out and we’ll see if we can meet up with both of them on the same day? The sooner the better.’
Liz smiled. ‘Great. I’d like to have plenty of time to train Mia up and then I can put my feet up for a little while before this one arrives,’ she said, touching her bump.
* * *
After Jay left, Liz changed into a hoodie and leggings, made herself a cup of tea and sat down on the sofa with her feet up on several cushions. Her back was aching, so she shifted around to get comfortable as she flicked on the television. She knew she needed to rest more. Her ankles were getting puffier by the day and Alex as usual was worried she was doing too much. She was glad that she and Jay had managed to resolve so much today, and it was good to see he was once more focused on the business. But she found what he’d said about Emma very worrying. She was positive Emma hadn’t found someone else that quickly — she’d been far too distressed about Jay. But Jay seemed certain about what he’d seen. It was so sad. She’d always thought they were perfect together, but maybe people needed to go through these difficult patches to make them realise how much they cared about each other. It had worked for her and Alex, and she only hoped it wasn’t the end of the road for Jay and Emma.
‘Now, that’s what I like to see — you with your feet up for a change.’
‘Just obeying my lord and master.’
‘Glad to hear it. How was your day?’ Alex asked.
‘Good. I had a meeting with Jay, which was very productive.’
‘How is he?’
‘Upset, obviously, but he’s focusing on work.’
‘Always the best distraction. So have you finally made plans for your maternity leave?’
