Bitter Herbs

Eight - The Second Sight Opens

Amara sat in the dining room, her mind buzzing with thoughts about her current predicament and the potential avenues for her future. The inheritance, now a substantial sum of around 280,000 GBP safely deposited in her bank account, represented a lifeline—a means to extricate herself from the turmoil of her failing marriage. She contemplated the steps she would need to take to initiate a divorce.

Considering her decision not to contest the divorce and her lack of claims to their shared properties, Amara questioned whether she required the services of a solicitor. A consultation seemed prudent, though, to ensure she understood the legal implications and procedures. As she looked into it, the cost didn't appear prohibitive, and she could now afford it thanks to her inheritance.

Next on her list was the need to separate from Ethan in a peaceful manner. She had endured enough emotional and mental turmoil and didn't want any further trouble. Finding a new place to live was essential—a spacious place where she could accommodate her beloved plants, delve deeper into her studies, and continue her passion for cooking. She harbored dreams of creating her own home apothecary.

Her inheritance could certainly cover the cost of a new home, but she had to be cautious not to exhaust her funds entirely, considering the uncertainty of the future. Additionally, securing an income was paramount. She hadn't worked in years, her previous attempts at employment thwarted by her marital situation. Perhaps she could explore the option of obtaining a cooking or catering license, allowing her to freelance in supplying food, crafting biscuits, or even creating wedding and birthday cakes. It was a path to financial independence she was willing to tread.

Amara opened her laptop, determined to kickstart her journey towards financial independence. She navigated to a freelance catering platform, ready to showcase her culinary skills.

Amara Malik
 University of Glasgow (BSc Human Biology and Nutrition), King's College London (MSc Dietetics).

However, as she scrutinized her introduction, doubt crept in. The description seemed more fitting for a seasoned dietitian or scientist rather than a baker or cook. She let out a frustrated sigh, forcefully pressing the backspace key to erase her words.

After a moment of contemplation, she rephrased her introduction.

Amara Malik
 Baker/Cook

Previous Employment:
Heinz - Nutritionist, Management Dietician
The Claridge's - Garde Manger, Vegetable Chef, Pastry Chef
Harrod's- Nutritionist, Management Dietician
10 Downing Street - Saucier, Saute Chef

She sighed, and re-read it again, finding this version better at reflecting her culinary expertise and experience, and she felt more confident about her prospects. 

Amara knew that she needed to proceed with her plans discreetly. She opened a new browser tab and began her quiet online research, ensuring she left no digital traces for her husband to stumble upon. She navigated through websites, forums, and government resources, collecting information on the requirements to start her catering venture.

Food Hygiene Certificate: First on her list was obtaining a Level 2 Food Hygiene Certificate, as it was essential for her credibility as a baker and cook. She found reputable online courses that allowed her to learn and take the exam remotely. She made a mental note to register for one of these courses soon.

Business Registration: As a baker and cook, she needed to register her business to operate legally. Since she planned to run the business as a sole trader to maintain financial independence, the registration process would be relatively straightforward and affordable.

Food Business Operator (FBO) Registration: To comply with food safety regulations, she needed to register as an FBO with her local authority.