Masters And Lovers 1-4 novel Chapter 2

Richard joins me in the kitchen, peering over my work surface and hob, where onions and mince sizzle with the spices. “What are we having?”

“Chilli con Carne.”

“Sounds good. Want some help?”

“No, I’m fine. I enjoy cooking.”

“I’ll rephrase that. Do you mind if I join you? It’s getting a little heated in there.”

“Join me by all means.” I nod across to the bottle. “Help yourself to a drink. Problem?”

Richard examines the label, Hmmms, then pours himself a glass of wine. “Um, not a problem exactly. But I think when Michael accepted my investment in his spa hotel, he thought I’d be a sleeping partner.”

“And…?”

“If you recall, I had the investment made in Elizabeth’s name, and she definitely wants to have an input.”

I pause from chopping chillies as the humour creeps over me.

Of course, he’s used to running everything himself….

When I invested in Michael’s business, I was a silent partner….

But Beth wants to be involved….

I chuckle, rubbing at the side of my nose, then immediately regret it….

Ahhh… Shit!

Chillies….

Quickly I wash hands, then pour a little oil on a paper towel. Eyes watering, I dab at my face, trying to rub away the chilli oil as Richard watches in silent amusement.

Then, “Sure you don’t want any help?”

“Yes, sure. I’m all but done.”

Tipping beans and chillies into the pan with the meat and onions, I glug in tomato puree and the rest of the wine, then clap the lid on tight. “That’ll be ready in a couple of hours.”