Catering With Benefits (3) - An Appetite for More - 37. It’s Not My Position to Complain Sir

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Dean’s bar was by now very successful and Andy was still working full-time at Price’s as well as part time at the bar. He had been thinking for a few months about asking Dean to move in with him. That would mean getting Jared’s approval, which he was sure would be ok, or the alternative would be to move in with Dean, but that was a share house as well, and offered less privacy and independence.

When he collected his mail one evening, which was mostly junk mail, he was about to drop the brochures and another advertising in the recycling bin, and accidently dropped one on the floor. As he picked it up he saw the words ‘There’s never been a better time to invest in the property market.’ The main thrust of the promotion was record low interest rates in Australia and the opportunity to negatively gear any loses on investment properties against other income.

He wasn’t interested in an investment property but thought the low interest rates presented a good opportunity to buy now and put extra payments towards a loan. He had not used all his savings to buy the bar and as it was doing well he saved all his income from the bar and lived on his wage from Price’s.

Andy went most nights to work some hours in the bar, so they could save on wages and that meant a bigger share of profits for him and Dean. Andy had the required amount for a deposit and could have bought the house in his name only, but he wanted to confirm their relationship by purchasing the property together.

After they closed one night, while they were both cleaning the bar, Andy discussed his plan with Dean, who was all in favour of living together but when Andy mentioned buying their own apartment Dean said “I have a little savings, but I don’t have enough to put in a half share of the deposit.”

“I think we can work around that, I have enough for the whole deposit.” replied Andy.

“No, I won’t let you do that, I pay my share or I pay you rent to live with you.”

“Hear me out, please Dean.”

“Sorry, what do you have in mind?”

“You put in your savings, then I loan you the balance of your share of the deposit. You can pay me back on agreed terms and then you will be a full joint owner of the property. What do you think?”

“I think it’s very generous of you and an excellent opportunity for me. As long as we can agree on fair terms, I’m in.”

“Great, I’ll get my solicitor working on a contract between us and we can start looking for an apartment.” concluded Andy.

“You know, I have been thinking of asking you for some time to start living together. I thought maybe we could rent a flat, but I never even dreamed that we would buy our own apartment.” said Dean.

“It just makes sense if we are going to live together, why waste money on rent, when loan repayments are no more.”

“Andy, I have been so lucky to find you and fall in love with you. It has completely changed my life.”

“And mine also Dean. I love you and want to share all my life with you. Now thinking further ahead, probably a few more years, but nevertheless I have another plan that needs to be discussed. When all this apartment purchase is settled, we need to look at how we can make you a full partner of the bar.”

“I’m happy managing it and getting a good wage.”

“Maybe, but I want more for you. But let’s concentrate on house hunting first.”

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On the same night, Justin and Craig were also closing up when they noticed the lights were still on in the bar. They went over to say goodnight and Andy asked them to have a drink. “We’ve got something to celebrate and we’d like to share it with you.” said Andy.

“Great, what’s happening?” asked Craig.

“Dean has agreed to move in with me, isn’t that great?”

“About time you two did that.” replied Justin.

“But there’s more, we are going to buy our own place.”

“I’m so happy for you and envious too.” replied Justin.

Craig gave Justin a curious look, which Justin understood and said no more on the subject; instead he said “We’ve got some news also about our business. Do you want to explain it Craig, I’m not sure I understand entirely how it works.”

“We had thought of selling the CWB business, now that we are so busy with the restaurant, but we’ve decided to franchise it instead. That way we retain some control and continue to earn income from the trading of the franchisees.”

“How does that work?” asked Andy.

“Firstly we sell the rights to use our name and our operating formula to prospective operators. They pay us a purchase fee and run it as their own business with a small percentage of their turnover also paid to us monthly and a referral fee if we source the function from existing clients or from advertising. In addition to that, the operator buys the food out of our kitchen and we also earn from the large stable of waiters that Justin has built up, by operating a labour hire company. That way the franchisee operator will be assured of hiring well trained and efficient staff that Justin has trained.”

“Wow! is all I can say.” said Andy “You sell your business and still earn from it, brilliant!”

“It’s going to mean a lot more administrative work for us, so Juanito will get a promotion to Franchisee manager, while I still manage food and Justin concentrates on staff training and hire. We will also make Warwick, restaurant manager and Charlie executive chef.

“Quite the entrepreneurs you two.” concluded Andy.

***

Jonathan and Virginia, along with their legal representatives attended a meeting for Jonathan to present his property settlement offer to Virginia. Relationships had remained cordial during the negotiations and this was to be Jonathan’s final offer. After reading the offer Virginia was pleased, in fact surprised at Jonathan’s generosity. However, in an effort to earn her enormous fee, Virginia’s solicitor objected and demanded more.

“But my client has been more than generous Ms Brown. Have you consulted with your client?” asked Smidmore.

“I am acting in the best interests of my client Mr Smidmore.”

“Nia, how do you feel about the offer?” asked Jonathan.

“I am pleased Jon.” then turning to Brown “What more do you expect to get for me?”

“A larger share of the business and the family home at Castle Hill.”

“I’d like to see you try for that.” replied a now agitated Jonathan. “It might mean a larger ongoing fee for you, but I doubt there would be anything in it for your client at the end of lengthy court proceedings. Do you really want to lock horns with Smidmore here? He has served two generations of this family, for a very good reason.”

“I am happy with what has been offered, so I would like to accept the offer as is and finalise this; if that is alright with you Brown?” Virginia added with a tone of sarcasm.

“Very well Mrs Price, if that is what you are prepared to settle for, but we could do better if you would allow me to negotiate on your behalf.”

“Smidmore, where do I sign?” asked Virginia.

“Before that, I would like to go over the details, so that all parties are clear.”

“Sure go ahead Smidmore.” said Virginia.

“With regard to real estate assets. Mr Price will retain full ownership of Crystalline as inherited from his family, including all contents, except personal items of Mrs Price. He will also retain ownership of the Villa in France. On the other hand Mrs Price will retain ownership of the Mallacoota property, recently purchased in her name, and the Potts Point apartment, with contents, will be transferred to her name to be used as a city residence. Mr Price will retain ownership of the Rolls Royce motor vehicle and the four wheel drive. The BMW will be transferred to Mrs Price.

Now we come to the distribution of the Business known as Price’s Prestige Jewellery. I might remind all parties that this operation was built up over almost one hundred years and passed down for three generations. No prenuptial agreement is in place as these were not legal in the state of New South Wales at the time of the marriage of the Prices. Accordingly Mrs Price will become an owner of twenty five percent of the assets of the whole business operations, real estate, stock and other property belonging to the business, along with any liabilities of the business. Other cash and securities, not in the name of the business, will be split fifty/fifty. Are both parties in full agreement with this proposal?”

“Of course” replied Jonathan, followed by “Yes, and thank you.” from Virginia.

“Excellent, that then leaves two other items to mention. Application for dissolution of the marriage has been lodged and a decree absolute will issue in due course.

“And the second matter?’ asked Brown.

“Mr Price had considered selling Price’s Prestige Jewellers, so that he can retire, however he has taken advice, both legal and financial, and has decided on a different course of action.” Smidmore paused, awaiting the reaction of his opposing counsel.

“Which is?” she asked.

“At an appropriate time in the near future, the business will be floated on the stock exchange. At that time both Mr and Mrs Price will have the right to sell or retain their respective shares in the business.” Smidmore looked at Virginia, but Jonathan spoke before him.

“Is that acceptable to you Nia? It will mean you can retain your shares and earn dividends and capital gains, or you may sell all or part of them at the market rate.”

“Sounds excellent to me Jon, and a very good idea for you to retire and enjoy your life, as will I.”

“Any objections Brown?”

“Not if my client is happy with this arrangement.”

“Good” replied Smidmore “Then I may take the liberty, after the signing, to lean on my client to open that bar I know he has concealed in that cupboard behind Brown.”

***

That evening at the Potts Point apartment, Lachlan asked Jonathan “How did your property settlement go today? Judging by the look on your face it must have gone well.”

“It did indeed, Virginia was very happy with the offer and accepted all of it. I can’t say the same for Brown, her solicitor. She’s quite an ambitious woman really. She wanted more but Virginia made her own decisions and put her in her place.”

“Great for you, so what’s next?”

“Firstly I need to move out of this apartment and take up permanent residence at Castle Hill. I have given this property to Virginia.”

“I’m sure she’ll like that.”

“Of course, but I think she prefers her country house and will only use this for city visits. Now that brings me to you. I want you to....Sorry, I’ll start again. Would you...do me the honour...is that the right thing to say?”

“If you are proposing marriage, but I suspect you’re not.”

“No, of course not, what I’m asking is, would you move into Crystalline with me?”

“I would love to Jonathan.”

“Very good, then we can take our time looking at what else we can do.”

“Like that holiday in France?”

“First thing on the list, after I get all the new business arrangements rolling. I won’t bore you with the details, but I’m going to retire from the business and concentrate on you and having fun.”

“Well, I can’t but agree to that.”

“Good, now where’s Bernard? ...Bernard, we’re dying of thirst in here, chop chop.”

“Coming right away Sir.”

“What are you going to do about him?”

“I think he’ll make a nice addition to the staff at Crystalline. But I won’t need the agency chef. We have an excellent cook there, and she’d never hear of having another cook in her kitchen.”

“Understandable, what’s her name?”

“Cook, is all I’ve ever know her as.”

“You don’t know the name of your, apparently highly valued cook?”

“I never thought to ask, should I?” Lachlan just raised his eyebrows and said nothing.

Just then the intercom buzzed. “Can you get that Bernard?”

“I only have two hands Sir, I’m still pouring your drinks?”

“I’ll get it.” volunteered Lachlan.

“It’s the security desk, there are two gentlemen to see you.” said Lachlan

“Oh, of course, tell them to come up.”

“Are you expecting guests, should I go?” asked Lachlan

“No, not at all. You know them, it’s Thomas and Jared, I invited them for dinner to meet you formally and fill them in on our plans.”

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By the time the door bell rang, Bernard had finished his bar tending and opened the door for the guests. “Good evening gentlemen, Mr Price and guest are in the lounge.”

“Is that you Bernard, behind the bow tie?” asked, a surprised Jared.

“Yes Sir, my new position with Mr Price, now that I am no longer required to...never mind Sir.”

“To drive...is that what you mean?”

“It’s not my position to complain Sir.”
“Bernard, drop the Sir bullshit, will you. I’m still Jared.”

“Of course, Jared the driver and Mr Steadman. Would you like me to announce you Sirs?”

“Bernard, you’ve got to stop watching that box set of Downton Abbey, this is the twenty first century.”

“As you say Sir.”

Thomas and Jared eventually pulled themselves away from the riveting conversation with Bernard and made their way down the hall to the lounge.

“Welcome gentlemen!” exclaimed Jonathan so enthusiastically, that it surprised the arrivals.

“Thank you Jonathan.” replied Thomas.

“Have we met before?” asked Jared of Lachlan

“Yes, at the Regency club.”

“Of course, you’re the waiter.”

“Thomas and Jared, I’d like you both to meet Lachlan.” said Jonathan, without adding why he was there.

“Pleased.” said Thomas as he offered his hand. Then Jared did the same.

“Bernard, drinks for our guests please. I think it’s time to open the champagne.”

“Very good Sir.” and as he walked away he muttered to himself, “The driver now gets champagne as well as being invited to dinner. There are no standards these days.”

“What was that Bernard?” asked Jared.

“Nothing Sir, just reminding myself of the order.”

<>

When they all had a glass, Jonathan said “Friends...I like the sound of that.” he said mostly to himself. “Friends, I’d like to propose a toast to friendship, the future and love.”

After they all took a sip, Jonathan added “I invited you two tonight because I want you to be the first to know that Lachlan and I are now an item. Is that what you say?”

“I’m thrilled for you both. Surprised, but thrilled nonetheless.” replied Thomas.

“When did this happen?” asked Jared.

“Can I answer that, Jonathan?” asked Lachlan.

“By all means”

“It’s been what they call a slow burn, for many years actually.”

“You are a dark horse Jonathan.” said Thomas “What’s liberated you so?”

“My upcoming divorce, retirement and other plans for the future.”

“Holy shit, you retiring, what brought this on?”

“Would it be naughty of me to say, love?”

“It would be just the perfect thing to say. I just never expected I’d ever here you say it.”

“Well there you are, the all new model Jonathan.” offered Lachlan.

“When you sent the selfies, I wondered if that’s what you meant, but I just couldn’t believe it until I heard it straight from the horse’s mouth.”

Just then Bernard came into the room “Excuse me Sir, but chef would like to know when he should serve the entree.”

“Give us about thirty minutes to chat and then that should be fine.”

“May I ask if you will be here at the appointed time?”

“Yes, Bernard, don’t worry.”

“Very good Sir, I shall inform chef.”

As Bernard left, Thomas asked “What was that about?”

“The night I sent you the pictures, we were in the bedroom and didn’t come straight to dinner when he called, so he got a bit upset about it.” replied Jonathan

“I’m not surprised he was upset, you two having sex before dinner.”

“No, it was not that. We were just talking, but we had to go in there because he kept interrupting us out here.”

“And what’s with his attitude, all this stuffiness and his Carson impersonation.” asked Jared.

“Who’s Carson?” asked Jonathan.

“If I have to explain, then it doesn’t matter.”

“I’ll explain later Jonathan.” added Lachlan.

“Why is it something risqué?”

“No, he’s a TV character, a very stuffy butler, and I think Jared may be right.”

“So how come he’s working as your butler?” asked Thomas.

“He seemed so down when I bumped into him one day, I thought perhaps he missed working directly for me, so I thought he might enjoy this. But you all seem to have an opinion about it, what have I done wrong? I just wanted the man to feel useful.”

“There’s nothing wrong with giving him the job, it’s just that he’s still living in the nineteenth century or he’s taking the piss.”

“I’m not sure I understand Thomas.”

“Haven’t you noticed his grovelling attitude?”

“He’s a servant, that’s what he does.”

“Lachlan, maybe you’ve still some work to do on that new model Jonathan.”

“Enough of this talk, that frankly I don’t understand. Let’s go to the table before dinner is served.”

<>

Over dinner, Jonathan explained about his divorce settlement, his retirement plans and when he got around to the trip to France, he asked “Thomas and Jared, while we’re at the villa, why don’t you two come visit us? Stay as long as you like and use it as a base to tour other parts of Europe.”

“That sounds like a great opportunity and I’d love to. What about you Jared?” asked Thomas.

“When do you leave?” he replied excitedly.

“We won’t be going for a few months yet, but if you two want to go ahead and open up the place, you’re more than welcome to do so.”

“Thanks, we’ll talk about that and let you know. But there is also the matter of our employment, Jonathan.”

“Yes, we do need to discuss that, but not now. I’ll get Prism to set up a meeting next week.”