Charlotte hadn't stepped outside the kitchen in nearly two days. Her apron smelled like garlic and lemon zest, her fingers were pruned from washing vegetables, and her notebook was covered in sauce splatters and frantic scribbles.
The "Chef's Challenge" had stirred up more than just the online foodie world—it had shaken her confidence in a way she hadn't expected. And now it looming like a giant flaming soufflé, there was no time to waste.
She didn't need distractions.
Which, of course, meant distractions came flooding in from every direction.
---
"We need a plan," Olivia said, dropping her tablet onto the farmhouse dining table like a gavel.
Marco looked up from his coffee with a groan. "You mean aside from survive?"
"Thrive," Olivia corrected, her glossy ponytail swinging as she turned to Charlotte. "We're going to win the story before we win the plate."
Seated next to her was a new face—young, pretty, all cheekbones and curiosity. The girl gave Charlotte a shy smile.
