‘So is he on board?’ asked Rosie, leaning forward.

Johnny took a drag of his cigarette. ‘We made him an offer he’d be crazy to knock back. Depends if he’s ready to come home or not, I suppose.’

‘He’s certainly at the top of his game,’ said Andy enthusiastically.

‘Has he done any media? TV, masterclasses? How old is he?’ asked Steve.

‘Full details when he signs on with us, but as Andy said, his is a great story,’ said Johnny. ‘Perfect for the Kamasan.’

‘Sounds like he could be,’ said Steve. ‘With a Bali background to add to the picture, too.’

‘Sounds good to me,’ said Grace.

Rosie nodded. ‘He’s a big enough name, that’s for sure. Local star comes home . . .’

‘I think he’s acting coy. I made a flat offer. Take it or leave it,’ said Johnny. ‘He knows who we are. I also understand his grandfather is not well; that’s a big incentive for a Balinese person to come home. He has family obligations.’ Johnny looked at Rosie. ‘I want media ready to go as soon as he signs the contracts.’ He turned to Grace. ‘You might want to visit his family compound – there’s a story to film in the good, successful son returning for ceremonies, family stuff.’

Grace looked at Steve. ‘Could be poignant, a family reunion. Joining the Kamasan family while he comes home to his own family, that sort of thing . . .’

Steve nodded. ‘Sure. Maybe we should wait until he’s accepted before committing to the idea?’

To Johnny it was all settled. Grace was tempted to ask what his plan B was if the chef didn’t accept, but she kept quiet. It was clear not many people ever said ‘no’ to the Pangisars.

Johnny turned to his two lawyers. ‘How thoroughly are you looking into who’s responsible for de Franco’s death?’

‘As far as we need to.’

‘There won’t be any public noise about it,’ said the other man. ‘The word will go out. Your man was a warning to others to pay up and keep quiet. He was obviously getting too deep into their world and rocking the boat. They don’t like outsiders.’

This enigmatic comment seemed to satisfy Johnny, who lifted a hand and a waiter stepped forward.

Grace shook her head and stood up. ‘Nothing else for me, thank you, Johnny. It’s time I hit the hay.’

Steve rose too. ‘We have an early start. Thanks, Johnny.’

Andy dropped his arm around Rosie’s shoulder and Grace noticed how comfortable they looked together. ‘We’ll have one for the road, Johnny. Thanks,’ Andy said.

As Grace and Steve headed towards the door, Steve glanced back. ‘Poor Emile. Those lawyers of Johnny’s will hush this all up.’

‘Bit scary actually, and sad. What a horrible way to die.’

‘Yes. There’s another layer of life here that visitors don’t see. Family. Reputation. Funds. Money talks.’