Chapter 42
The Unmasking and the Gold Standard
Hazel's POV
I walked into the massive, glittering restaurant, consciously playing low-key. I hadn't dressed extravagantly; my clothes were simple, neat, and professional—a plain, dark suit that could easily belong to a mid-level manager or a discreet consultant. My goal was simple: observation. I needed to know the place I was about to rule and lead, intimately and completely. Anne had done well by keeping my identity as the new owner a secret.
Posing as a new employee reporting for duty, I slipped into the bustling kitchen. My first observation began with hygiene—and immediately, a frown creased my brow. The cleanliness was sub-par, falling short of the high standards I intended to implement. I moved through the chaotic space, checking food storage methods, staff efficiency, and the overall flow of service. Then, I began to circulate, watching the staff's interactions and energy levels.
