But that was just a buffet…
It’s the first time I’ve sat at his table, and the food is top mark. The turkey is succulent, the stuffing fragrant and appetising, the vegetables not overcooked. And the gravy is thick, rich with wine and herbs. I chew thoughtfully at a roast potato: crunchy outside, soft inside and flavoured with….
Rosemary?
“This meal is excellent,” I say. “Where did you learn to cook, James?”
Charlotte nods vigorously, looking between us, fork in hand as she engulfs a ball of chestnut stuffing followed by a pig-in-blanket.
James tips his glass to me, looking pleased. “When I was a student, I worked in a hotel kitchen to help make ends meet. The chef there rather took me under his wing, taught me some valuable life skills….”
Charlotte swallows hard. Her face drops and t
