A warm smell of freshly cooked fish filled Alan's spacious dining room, drifting through the air like an invisible invitation. His personal chef carried in the final platter with practiced grace, balancing it with pride as though presenting a work of art.
The day's catch, pulled from Alan's private lake only hours before, had been transformed into an impressive feast. Golden pan fried fillets glistened with just the right amount of oil, their crispy edges promising flavor. Beside them lay delicate steamed portions arranged neatly, each cut gleaming as though painted with light. Crispy deep fried pieces, stacked high, released a faint crackle as steam escaped from within. A rich fish stew simmered gently in a covered bowl, fragrant herbs rising with each curl of steam. The long dining table, set with polished silver and fine crystal, looked fit for royalty.
