“Ah, then that’s settled. I’ll add that to the list of things I’m ordering.”
Kris sat up as a hand appeared before his face, holding a slice of strawberry.
No hands, Kris reminded himself, opening his mouth obediently.
“Such a good boy. Enjoy this today because we are weaning you off food through the day.”
Weaning me off food? What fresh hell is this? Oh, is it a liquid diet or detox or something?
Another strawberry was pressed against his lips, and he accepted it.
“So, about Sean, shall arrange for grief counsellors for the staff and his close friends and family?” Ollie asked Ishmael.
“Yes. Also, alert all staff that a free gas check is available and that we encourage them to book one. Remind them that only a qualified gas fitter should fit gas appliances.”
“Such a shame, sir. Falling asleep like that with a faulty flue after putting in that new fire.”
Kris felt there was some kind of subtext going on that he was missing.
“Indeed it was. Just as well we’re hiring new bar staff. We’ll just have to add a new manager to that list.”
“I’ll get right on it.”
Ollie turned and left. Kris looked up at Ishmael wide-eyed. “One of my bar managers died last night of carbon monoxide poisoning,” Ishmael explained. A pool of dread pooled in Kris’ belly. “And no, I was nowhere near there, before you ask.”
I bet you weren’t. I see you didn’t say you had nothing to do with it, though.
Ishmael proffered another strawberry. Kris found it prudent to take it, this time allowing his tongue to lick the tips of Ishmael’s fingers. As he did so. They tasted of juice.
Better fed than dead.
