‘That’s a good sign. It’s a bit chaotic, I know. You don’t throw up a multi-million-dollar, state-of-the-art, innovative complex like the Kamasan without a few dramas,’ said Andy with a wry smile.

‘True. Although we’ve been lucky so far. It helps that Steve and the guys he works with are all so professional,’ Grace said, then stopped and thought for a minute. ‘What can you tell me about Johnny? There’s the family and the Kamasan group, there’s the MGI executives, and then there’s Johnny who has a foot in both camps. And always a lot of hangers-on who dance around him, seeming to run errands and do things while Johnny holds the strings.’

‘He might look and act like a lightweight sometimes, but don’t underestimate him. Because of their heritage, the family is extremely cautious in all their dealings, and Johnny is no exception,’ Andy said, leaning forward. ‘Johnny is very close to his father and completely loyal to his family.’

‘The heir apparent, I gather.’

‘Who can do no wrong,’ added Andy. ‘Like father, like son. Johnny went to uni in Sydney, did a law degree that he “topped up” at Yogyakarta State University.’

‘Wow, I didn’t know that. He comes across as . . . well, a playboy. But he is smart, I can see that. A great front man to sell the Kamasan.’

‘Yes, he knows the old rich list, plus the new jetset. Apparently he’s also best mates with the president of some big bikie gang in Australia.’

‘So no-one tangles with Johnny?’

‘No way. He’s also a respected martial arts expert, especially in Silat.’

Grace smiled. ‘Well, a man of many talents.’ She paused. ‘Tell me, do the big drawcard stars the Kamasan has employed have contracts?’

‘Like Stephano, the executive chef?’

‘I was thinking more of our head chef, Emile. We’re featuring him, but what happens if he throws a tantrum and leaves? Are they on tight contracts?’

‘Yes. Pretty watertight. It’s big money. Their reputation and business depends just as much on the Kamasan being a success as the Pangisars’ does. It’s in everyone’s best interests for the guests to want to come as much for the food experience, or my bar experience, as for the culture, the world-class service, the scenery and setting.’ He grinned. ‘If we get it right, the Kamasan brand will become self-perpetuating. Put it this way: it’ll be like a great big dazzling piñata, and when you whack it, goodies will rain down on everyone.’

Grace laughed. ‘What an image!’

Andy reached over and touched her hand. ‘Grace, I don’t want to pry into your financial affairs, but I hope you’ve done a deal, to share in whatever success comes if all this works as we hope it will.’