13
Balls
My hands were trembling in my apron pockets. With the heat of the soup and the delicate nature of the garnishes, each serving of my dish had to be moved with extreme care. Suddenly standing by me, Jamie placed a calm, comforting hand upon my shoulder. It was times like this when I appreciated his massive height. In truth I wanted him to wrap me in his arms and keep me safe.
Jamie pressed his lips to my ear. “Just remember, you’re not Ali Nakiri’s little girl, you’re Elena Nakiri, Mark One, and you’re a culinary bad-ass.”
I couldn’t help but crack a smile. “Thanks.” I took a breath and took a step towards my mother’s place at the judge’s table. I wanted to make eye contact, to stare her down, but the moment I saw the whites of her eyes, I was too much of a scared little girl to
