Читать книгу Accidental Eyewitness - Alice Zogg - Страница 9

At the beginning of March was a rare occasion when Kurt and Barbie dined together at home, just the two of them. The domestics had their day off and Barbie cooked the meal herself, which was also a rarity. She’d done her own grocery shopping, followed by a couple hours of labor in the kitchen. She now served them meatloaf, mashed potatoes and gravy, and green beans.

Kurt took a few bites and then praised, “Nothing compares to a wholesome, home-cooked meal. You’re not only gorgeous but an excellent cook as well!”

Clearly pleased, Barbie did not let on that she was a novice, having followed the cookbook’s recipes, step by step.

As they lingered over coffee, Kurt announced, “We got the last response in today’s mail. Now all have replied and are planning to attend our celebration.”

I was afraid of that, Barbie thought, but kept it to herself.

He continued, “I’ll go ahead and book the flights and arrange for the boat ride. I’ll also organize the domestic aspect of our venture. You don’t need to do anything as far as that goes, but I’m asking a favor.” Grinning, he said, “You can probably guess what that is.”

She gave him a blank stare.

“I’d like you to sing for our guests.”

She shook her head. “I’d rather not.”

“You love to perform. So what’s the problem?”

“I don’t feel secure singing without accompaniment.”

“Of course you’ll have backup music. For one thing, there’s already a grand piano at our place on the Isle of Ease and - -”

“There is?” she interrupted.

“How could I plan a vacation house without a piano for you to play on? But don’t worry. I don’t expect you to sing and play at the same time for the guests. I can engage musicians. How about the band you used to belong to? We’ll hire them if they’re available.”

She grimaced and said, “They’re angry at me for having quit, leaving them without a lead singer. They’re a proud bunch; I doubt they’d come.”

“Doesn’t matter. I’ll find you other backup musicians. Meanwhile, you can all practice here in your music room.”

He did not give her a chance for objections and said, “That’s settled then. Leave it all to me.”

Later, deep into the night, while Kurt was snoring next to her, Barbie lay awake. She wondered, are all millionaires like that? She had not been permitted to make a single decision of her own, ever since their wedding day. On closer reflection, the controlling had started even before, without her having been aware of it. Well, she determined, I’ll get back at him in my own way. Tomorrow, I’ll call for the chauffeur and have him drop me off at Rodeo Drive for some serious shopping.