Tom looked across the laden table at Sally. She raised her eyebrows at the feast their host had set before them. It was far too much, but to comment as such could affect negotiations. As it was, they may be compromised by the absence of Derek, the third member of their team. A quiet cough grabbed their attention.
“Please. Eat.” The Councillor indicated the spread with his fork. “We can discuss business later.”
Tom picked up a serving spoon and added a selection of crisp vegetables to his plate, gradually forming an autumnal foliage of colour.
Lifting the gravy boat, Tom started to pour the rich stock over the meat, watching it flow around the irregularly placed vegetables like a chestnut stream. With each inward breath the aromatic steam caressed his nose - his mouth was already watering in anticipation.
There was a slight yield as his fork pierced a burnished carrot. His knife cut it to a mouth-sized piece, and he blew upon it before it passed between his lips. The balance of sweet and savoury, the texture – everything – was just right.
The same went for everything on his plate. Urged to take extra portions, he couldn’t help himself. It was so good.
“Oh my God,” he heard Sally say, “this is absolutely delicious.”
The Councillor smiled in pleasure. “I’m glad you like it.” He paused, and nodded towards the decimated platter in the centre of the table. “And how do you find the Derek?”
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