32 Lunch with the Governor
POV - Janick
[Day 2, March 2002, 3pm]
Relieved to step away from the heated exchange, I made my way towards the cafeteria, seeking a moment of respite. Before I could reach my destination, however, the Governor's call interrupted my thoughts.
"Janick! Would you join me for lunch?" His invitation caught me off guard, but I quickly composed myself as I responded, "It would be my pleasure, Governor."
As we walked together towards the convoy awaiting us, the Governor explained, "Caldwell mentioned she had ordered some food, and I felt a little guilty eating it alone."
Hope surged within me at the opportunity for a one-on-one conversation with the Governor, a chance to discuss vital resources for my projects. I followed him and his Chief of Staff towards the convoy,
As we turned onto the desolate drive, a sense of foreboding settled over me like a heavy shroud. The Governor's Mansion loomed ahead, its imposing silhouette casting long shadows across the barren landscape. The once-vibrant lawns lay wilted and lifeless, a stark contrast to the grandeur they once exuded.
"It looks.. Imposing." The Governor commented, seeing the same thing I see.
The gates creaked open reluctantly, as if protesting our intrusion into this desolate domain. The gravel beneath the wheels seemed to groan in protest as we made our way along the winding driveway, flanked by gnarled oak trees that seemed to reach out with twisted branches, as if warning us to turn back.
With each passing moment, the mansion loomed larger, its dilapidated façade a haunting reminder of better days long gone. The windows, shattered and boarded up, stared back at us like hollow eyes, reflecting the bleakness of our surroundings.
As we pulled up to the entrance, a chill ran down my spine, the air thick with a sense of unease. The once-grand columns now stood cracked and weather-beaten, a grim testament to the passage of time and neglect.
Stepping out of the car, I couldn't shake the feeling of dread that hung heavy in the air. As we prepared to enter, I knew that I was about to descend into the depths of despair—a journey into the heart of darkness that would leave me forever haunted by the ghosts of the past.
As I approached the mansion, I observed a dozen or so workers diligently cleaning the premises. Despite their efforts, it was evident that the damage was extensive, and it would likely be some time before the Governor could take up residence here. Rumor had it that he was currently staying in one of the spare rooms at the Palace, making do until the mansion could be restored to its former glory. It was a sobering reminder of the challenges ahead and the urgency of addressing the state's budgetary issues.
As the doors swung open, revealing the bustling activity within, I was pleasantly surprised to see the staff diligently cleaning. Despite the initial disarray, the mansion was beginning to regain its former splendor. Caldwell led us through the immaculate halls to the kitchen, where a chef was hard at work.
The aroma of the cooking filled the air, though it was not a local dish. "Please, have a seat," the chef beckoned, gesturing towards the waiting chairs
The chef was hard at work. The aroma of the cooking filled the air, as the chef skillfully toasted a flat dough on a sizzling griddle, while pots of fragrant rice were still cooking with dozens of ingredients cooked and ready.
The Governor's face lit up like a child's on Christmas morning. "Oh. My. God! Caldwell! You brought a Malaysian Chef!" he exclaimed, his excitement palpable as he rushed forward to embrace and lift his chief of staff off the ground. "How did you know?!" he exclaimed, his eyes sparkling with delight and surprise.
As Caldwell was still being lifted up, she quipped, "A chief of staff always knows." Her voice carried a note of playful pride. "Now you can have all the Roti and Nasi Lemak you need, so that you can actually do your job," she added with a chuckle.
It appears that Caldwell has gone above and beyond to alleviate any guilt regarding the lack of funds. By booking a private chef from the Governor's home country, she has demonstrated a level of care and consideration that surpasses expectations.
However, the expense incurred, particularly if the chef was flown in via jet just a few hours ago, could potentially cost millions. This extravagant gesture highlights the lengths to which Caldwell is willing to go to ensure the Governor's comfort and satisfaction. Not sure how it will justify the cost if there is any audit.
The chef gracefully presented us with plates adorned with Roti Canai accompanied by dhal, as well as servings of Nasi Lemak complete with all its flavorful accompaniments. The aroma wafting from the dishes was tantalizing, promising a culinary experience that would delight the senses.
As we eagerly dug into the meal, the Roti Canai proved to be a revelation of flavors and textures. The soft, flaky bread practically melted in our mouths, its buttery richness perfectly complemented by the savory depth of the dhal. Each bite was a harmonious symphony of warm spices and delicate dough, leaving us craving for more.
Turning our attention to the Nasi Lemak, we marveled at the vibrant colors and enticing array of ingredients. The fragrant coconut rice was a revelation in itself, its subtle sweetness providing a delightful contrast to the bold flavors of the sambal, anchovies, and peanuts. Each mouthful was a tantalizing fusion of textures and tastes, with the creamy eggs adding a luxurious richness to the ensemble.
Together, the combination of Roti Canai with dhal and Nasi Lemak created a culinary experience that was truly unforgettable. As we savored each bite, we couldn't help but marvel at the chef's skill in bringing together these iconic Malaysian dishes, transforming a simple meal into a feast fit for royalty. It was a celebration of flavor, a journey of culinary discovery that left us longing for more.
