Page 8 of Omega's Midlife Love
Chapter 4 - Alan
Ipicked up the next folder and opened it while Victor swiped his tablet. I glanced at the photos of food to remind myself of my initial impressions.
“Candidate number five: Allison Abrams,” Victor stated. “Two years experience as a baker before she transitioned to the role of a private chef. She’s primarily worked in homes where her responsibilities are meal preparation and the client finishes. Her clients seemed satisfied, but nothing that I would describe as an enthusiastic recommendation. Her time management left something to be desired, but I have the feeling that it would improve quickly.”
I picked up the page of photos and shook my head. “Her meals were good, but they were all far too rich. Balance is critical, especially when trying to make an impression. One, or even two, rich meals would have been understandable, but there was nothing lighter to offset it.”
Victor nodded and made a note on his tablet. “I’m inclined to agree. Tier two?”
I considered it for a moment, then nodded. “I think so. Worthy of consideration if all our preferred candidates pass, but I feel there are better options.”
I set the folder aside and picked up the next one.
“Candidate number six: Joselyn Smith. Eight years restaurant experience. Started as an expeditor, then worked her way up the ranks to sous chef. Transitioned to private chef approximately five years ago and worked with two previous families. Glowing reviews from previous employers. No problems with time or budget management.”
I studied the meal photos, recalling the skill displayed. “Good, balanced meals that showcased a variety of techniques. Definitely a tier one candidate.”
Victor made another note on his tablet, and I picked up the final folder.
“Candidate number seven: David West. Two decades restaurant experience, starting from prep cook. Worked his way up and has been executive chef for the past five years. Moved to Harris Cove last month to transition to private chef. Has worked a handful of temporary assignments. Well rated by the agency, but no long-term private clients to contact for recommendation. Restaurant owner said, and I quote, ‘If I give him a bad rec will you tell him to come back? My kitchen isn’t the same without him.’”
I couldn’t help but chuckle.
Victor smiled and continued. “Time and budget management were excellent.”
I studied the photos, and laughed when my stomach growled. “Good balance and range. Tier one candidate.”
He nodded and made a note. “That leaves us with three tier one candidates. I’ll contact them for final interviews. There are two tier two candidates. I’ll save their information in case we need to call them in. Two candidates did not make the cut. I’ll send payment for the interview days and thank them for their time.”
“I’ll leave the scheduling to you. I’ll sit in on final interviews so that I can evaluate their personalities.”
Tapping on the tablet, then he stood. “Do you have any objections to me scheduling them the same day as the interviews for your personal assistant?”
I thought about it, then sighed. “Might as well get it all over at once.”
“That was my thought as well. I’ll set up the interviews.”
“Thank you.”
∞∞∞
I closed my eyes and pinched the bridge of my nose. I’d forgotten how exhausting it was to build a staff, and I was grateful for Victor’s presence. He’d led the interviews, leaving room for me to cut in as needed, but otherwise making it clear that while I was the boss, he was the manager.
“Last one,” he said. “David West.”
I nodded and tried to make my expression neutral.
He walked to the other room, then returned with another man.
I didn't know what I’d been expecting, but a handsome middle-aged omega wasn’t it. I definitely wouldn’t mind seeing him around every day, with his soft light-brown hair with hints of gray, laughing blue eyes, and slender frame.
I collected myself and stood, extending a hand.
He smiled at me and accepted the handshake before we all sat, a curious eyebrow raised from Victor.
Ah he knew me too well.
Victor launched into the interview, discussing the meals that had been prepared and what we did and didn’t like about them. Then he reviewed Mr. West’s qualifications.
