Chapter 107
Karl

“Watch it, you’re massacring those veggies,” John calls out, glancing over from the stove where he’s

sauteeing some garlic and mushrooms.

I chuckle, adjusting my grip on the knife. I’m supposed to be julienning some peppers, but instead I’ve

lost my train of thought and accidentally begun dicing them instead. “Yeah, well, they had it coming.”

John grins, shaking his head. “Y’know, you’re not as unfunny and stu pid as I thought you were.”

“Could say the same about you,” I reply, gathering the sliced vegetables into a bowl.

Who would’ve thought? John and I, mortal enemies turned reluctant allies. A couple of weeks ago, we

could barely stand to be in the same room, but time and circumstances—and angry bosses—have a

way of forcing you to reassess your priorities.

“It’s all about collaboration,” John continues, his tone more philosophical than I thought the brute would

be capable of. “You can’t make a great dish with just one ingredient. Same with a kitchen. Everyone’s

got to pull their weight, contribute their flavor for the bigger picture.”

should put that on a plaque or

stick to cooking,” he laughs, adding a splash of white

the air

door to Abby’s office opens, and for a moment, my world

looking for something—or someone. When her gaze falls on

leaps in anticipation.

quickening her pace as she walks

around me. John notices, his eyes narrowing. “Hey, snap

burning the scallops.”

“Sorry,” I mutter.

on the sound of the scallops sizzling in

argued, voices raised, over her decision

contest despite our earlier agreement. I’d felt betrayed;

messed up big time,” he

mind a swirl

quieter, the realization sinks in

this restaurant. She’s not just another chef. She’s someone I care

mean as

my insecurities, my fears, get in the way. I shake my

been driven between

good here?” John asks, snapping

you tomorrow,” I

way

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