“I trust this lack of decorum isn’t indicative of new protocols,” he said with his customary moue of distaste. He leaned over to pick up one of the smallest metal bowls, using his fingers as a pincer to do so. “And I certainly hope you intend to thoroughly scrub all these items before using them.” “All part of the plan, Peter,” I said. “We’re using our free time to clean and restructure. Better to get this accomplished now before our new chef is hired. Changing the layout after she starts would cause undue aggravation.” “That’s one of the matters I’d like to discuss with you,” he said. “Good, I was hoping that’s why you were here.” I got to my feet, rubbing my hands together to clear them of any floor grit I may have picked up. “We haven’t lifted the moratorium on hiring, have we?” “Unfortunately not.” Bucky got up to stand next to me.
