Gwen motioned for her to take the seat next to the one with the papers. “Great. Well, this will just be a preliminary meeting so you can tell me what you envision, and I’ll tell you a little about how our process works. Any questions?”

“Yes. How available will you be to field questions should they arise? Are you one of those people that shuts their phone off at five or do you have enough decency to be available to your clients whenever they need you?”

Gwen’s eyes widened before she schooled her features. “Well, I can’t say I’ll be available at all hours of the day. Like I mentioned earlier, I’m still the executive chef at Wren so there will be times when I can’t answer. But if I can’t take your call, I’ll make sure to return it as soon as I can.”

Jill held back a sigh. If her mother was going to spend an extravagant amount of money on this party, then Jill would make sure that everything was done right down to every last detail. It was unacceptable that the hired help would be unavailable at times, but that was a fight for a different day. “We can address that later. What can you tell me about menu options?”

Gwen’s smile lit up her face and she jumped right in and went through all the options. Buffet, plated, or family style. Beef, chicken, fish, or vegetarian. As she droned on and on about side dishes and salads, Jill made a mental list of everything she’d need to do and how much input she’d still need from her mother. Just what I want—more time with my mother.

After going through every option, Jill realized Gwen really enjoyed talking about food and if she didn’t stop her soon, she’d be there all day. When Gwen took a breath and reached for another folder, Jill interrupted her. “I need to get to work. Send me proposals for every combination you mentioned for a hundred and fifty people. Get them to me by the end of the week. I’ll discuss everything with my mother so we can set up a tasting. You do provide complimentary tastings, correct?”

“Yes. But we should really talk over more options about linens and tables and chairs.”

“Not now. I don’t have time. This project was given to me only a few days ago. I’ll have my assistant find time in my calendar and call you.” Jill stood and slung her purse over her shoulder. She reached to shake Gwen’s hand. “I expect to hear from you by the end of the week.”

“You will. Have a nice day, Ms. Jacobs.”