He half rose from his chair and took it. “Big moment foryou. Which is why I’m accepting it. You know it was never about the money. We wanted you to be part of The Paris Roommates Group because you’re one of us.”
It wasn’t easy to shelve her emotions when her business meeting was with a friend, so she released a shallow breath. “I know, and I’m grateful. But I want to contribute financially. The fact that I’m already turning such an incredible profit is because of all of you guys. The press for Nanine’s brought huge buzz to my bakery, and the online store Dean created has generated significant capital upfront, as you know.”
“He does have good ideas sometimes, doesn’t he?” Kyle grinned and set the check aside. “Although don’t tell him I said that.”
Just like that, her tension eased and she could breathe more naturally. “My lips are zipped. Now, I want to talk about this blackballing.”
His entire posture stiffened. “All right. Again, I’m sorry I didn’t tell you.”
She waved what she hoped was a dismissive hand. “That’s behind us, and I’m sorry for getting so upset. I only ask that you don’t keep me in the dark again.”
His nod was immediate. “I won’t. Now, do you want me to run you through my current plan in complete detail? I’ve decided to adopt a broad strategy—Dean called it scattershot—since you never know what might guarantee our end result.”
She moistened her lips. “I actually came with an idea. If you approve, I want to execute it quickly. Michelin announces its stars in France in three weeks.”
He rolled his shoulders before he settled back in his chair, doing his best to act casual when he looked anything but. “It’s all hands on deck, so I’m happy you have some ideas. What are you thinking?”
Her chest was suddenly tight again. “I did some networking today with people I trust from myCordon Bleudays, ones I’ve kept in touch with. Without going into the real situation, I asked a simple question. Who holds the greatest influence on the Michelin process in France outside of the actual organization? We know one person seems to: Chef Auguste Dassault. There are a few rare others, the culinary kingmakers, as they’re called by industry people.”
“I like where you’re going with this, Thea. Brooke and I were focused on trying to find people who worked for Michelin to meet with. Except we can’t because it’s a conflict of interest. So what did you discover?”
“I got a name.” She wanted to dance in her chair but kept herself in check. “One that kept coming up time and time again besides Chef Dassault.”
His jaw slackened before he leaned forward. “You’re kidding. Who?”
“Christophe Flaubert. He’s part of every food and beverage group in France, wielding great power behind the scenes on who becomesMOFand members of distinction, exactly like Chef Auguste Dassault. He’s been advising French presidents on Legion of Honor recipients for decades.”
“Another man behind the curtain! So you want to set up a meeting with him?”
The moment of truth was here. She shook her head. “No, I think that would scare him off. People like this don’t want direct contact. They’re the people behind the scenes for a reason. Even Jean Luc said it would be gauche to call for a meeting.”
He looked puzzled. “So what are you suggesting?”
Her nerves rose rapidly like she was a quick bread. “I want to deliver a breadbasket to him. Because bread is love, and it’s the heart and soul of every French person I’ve ever met.”
“A breadbasket.”He rubbed his jaw, considering. “That’s it? Only the bread? No note?”
“The French are subtle people as Jean Luc often remindsme. No note. Bread is the language of the heart. No words are necessary. He’ll have heard of my bakery and its connection to Nanine’s. One caveat Jean Luc insisted I mention: we don’t know whether he and Dassault are friendly, given the circles they run in. Look, I know you might think it’s a long shot, but I wanted to contribute. This is my idea.”
Kyle only smiled. “Thea, one thing about the culinary industry is that it’s a small world. At this point, we pursue all avenues and hope for the best. When can you do the basket?”
She had made herself sit up straighter as he gazed at her. Now her relief was so great she almost slumped in her chair. “I’ll have it delivered tomorrow.”
“You have his address?” he asked, steepling his hands.
“Yes, someone I know went to a party at his home.” She swallowed thickly over her dry mouth as new excitement grew within her. She was contributing. Executing an idea. Gracious, she’d come a long way.
Standing, he came over and hugged her again. “I love your industriousness, Thea. From now on, expect me to come to you for some brainstorming.”
Darn it, she wanted to cheer. “I’d love that. I also wanted to let you know that I’d like a meeting on the bakery’s first month’s sales and an overall assessment of how we’re doing so far. I have some ideas about refining a few items, knowing we’re in those fortunate winter months when we don’t have to worry about the summer heat and more expensive utilities.”
Drawing back, he smiled down at her like the old Kyle. Now she could give an answering smile. Her business was nearly finished.
“Why don’t you email me about the meeting, and we can set up something that works for your schedule. I’m a little more flexible on that score.”
She beamed at him. “Terrific. I’ll do that. I’ll also text you once the breadbasket is delivered.”
He turned her toward the door, his grip friendly and familiar. “Can you drop in and see Madison for a sec? I know she’d love to see you.”
