Rico’s mouth crooked to the side. “You think to shame people for their behavior? I see why you would try. I am not so convinced it will work. People such as this… Normal chefs have colossal egos. This man… He is a megalomaniac, as I expect are those with whom he holds influence.”
“Like everyone else I’ve spoken to recently, you’re the soul of positivity,” Kyle responded through clenched teeth, reaching for his drink.
“I am half French and half Basque.” He gave a Gallic shrug. “Passion and a healthy dose of pessimism run through these veins. But I understand your dilemma. I will make some calls. When will you have extra seating for such persons?”
Kyle had met with his contractors on-site today on that very subject after sharing the news with a very upset Brooke and Axel. “Next Wednesday.”
The news had been a rare bright spot, particularly since Madison’s newfuck itattitude seemed shaken.
Rico continued to smoke, considering the challenge. “So a week. You will need a steady stream of the right people. I trust I do not need to draw you a map.”
Kyle gave a harsh laugh. “As you said, Madison respects me. She wouldn’t if I didn’t know my business.”
He sipped his drink slowly, and Kyle did the same. Rico was thinking, and Kyle was inclined to let him. “Few equal William Silver, but there are a couple other food critics I have in mind. You would also benefit from Madison appearing on the hottest TV show featuring chefs. That is something she would surely hate.”
His stomach tuned to cement. Shewouldhate parts of his campaign, and he needed her cooperation. “I plan to minimize her involvement as much as possible.”
Rico looked like he was sticking his tongue to his cheek to keep from smiling. “When you become head chef, there is more of the meet and greet. If you would like, I can swing by and tell her it’s part of the role.”
His feral grin announced he wasn’t finished plying his suit.
“So long as you understand she’s made her choice,” he responded with a challenging quirk of his brows.
“So far.” Rico took another puff. “Women—Madison especially—are mercurial creatures. Which I love about them. It suits my?—”
“Passionate and pessimistic soul?” Kyle interrupted dryly, punching him looking more and more possible.
Rico finished his drink, stood, and extended his hand. “I didn’t want to like you, but I find I do. I’ll be in touch.”
Kyle met his eyes and clasped his hand with authority. “Thank you, Rico.”
“Anything for Madison,” he said with a wolfish smile.
Kyle shook his head.
He’d just made a deal with the devil for his girl.
