The Billionaire Chef by Kee Patterbee

Author:Kee Patterbee [Patterbee, Kee]
Language: eng
Format: epub
Publisher: Twice By Lightning
Published: 2019-06-30T16:00:00+00:00

Chapter Twelve

After reviewing the rules, the group got the competition started. Madeline, Samori, and Hannah were presented with, and they tasted a plethora of baked goods. Between, presentation categories, Hannah attempted to engage Samori in conversation. His reception was cool. He answered in short, staccato sentences. Abrupt and to the point, Hannah added to her profile. She watched as the Ivorian engaged each contest. At these times, he presented himself as friendly and open, but with Hannah, he was cool, calm, and collected. Holding back, Hannah noted. Studying his body language, she determined him to be nervous, not about the event, but with her questions. Under normal circumstances, she would press forward, but this time, her gut instinct told her to back off. He won’t bolt. He’ll shut down. She eased off and concentrated on the presented food. Rather than spit out the food she tasted, she instead did what she was not supposed to, and swallowed each savory bite. After taking a bite of each piece, she collected the remainder of each treat in a pastry box she requested. After a questioning look from Madeline, Hannah said, “Waste not, want not.” The restaurateur gave a meek, but shocked smile.

With all entries evaluated, Hannah gathered the three boxes and set them on the table where they were judging. Madeline excused herself, so the sleuth took the opportunity to confront Samori. She turned and stared at him for a moment as he gathered up his notes. He again ran his eyes over Hannah. “Can I help you?”

“Maybe. Have you ever heard of Elias Babel?” Hannah observed a slight stiffening of his posture and took note that he paused before answering.

“My specialty is truffles, Ms. Starvling. Of course, I have heard of Mr. Babel.”

“Did you hear what happened to him?”

Samori did not look at Hannah but focused on his papers. She watched as he fumbled to stack them and store away his pen. Unnerved at the mention of his name.

“I heard he had an accident. Unfortunate. I was hoping to meet with him.”

“You would like him. Nice fellow. Fell off the balcony in his room. Four stories straight down.” Hannah paused before giving the next information. “I got there just after he landed.”

Samori turned to look the sleuth in the face. His nostrils flared, and he tilted his head downward a bit.

“A lot of people were around. Maybe I’m wrong, but I’m pretty sure I saw you there.”

In a cold, steady voice, he answered, “You are mistaken.”

“Is that so? I could have sworn it was you. Then I come in here, and there you are, judging with me. First time judge. Odd, wouldn’t you say?” Hannah said, staring back into his dark eyes.

At this point, the two became locked in a battle of wills, each trying to out stare the other. Neither gave in. Samori seemed never to even twitch. Yet, Hannah struggled. Then she moved to overtake him mentally.

“As your uncle no doubt told you, I’m a bit of a curious person.

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