Chapter 18
1374 Words
Welcome to La Pearl,” she said, her voice filled with warmth. “I apologize for the unusual circumstances. We are understaffed tonight, but I promise to make your dining experience extraordinary.”
Niccolò groaned, his initial surprise giving way. “What the f**k are you doing here Emilia?”
“I believe it’s called working sir, I’m sure the concept isn’t lost on you.” Emilia said sarcastically.
“My wife will not be a server.”
“Well thank my lucky stars I am not your wife, sir.”
“Emilia, you should stop right now.” Niccolò warned.
Giancarlo and Theo exchanged glances, knowing that this unexpected twist. They settled into their seats as Emilia handed them the menus, ignoring Niccolò’s biting comment.
“Aren’t you going to hug me Millie bug?” Giancarlo questioned.
“I’m at work Carlo, please don’t embarrass me.” Emilia pleaded.
“Later then hmmm.” Giancarlo winked making Emilia smile, shaking her head.
“Hi Theo, it’s nice to see you again.”
“Hey Emmy, you’re looking good.” Theo flirted which Emilia rolled her eyes at.
“Why are you working here?” Niccolò demanded, his voice sharper than he intended. “You shouldn’t be waiting tables.”
“Because half the staff is out sick, and they needed help,” she replied, maintaining her composure. “I can handle it.”
“No, you shouldn’t have to handle it,” he insisted, his frustration bubbling over.
Emilia’s expression hardened slightly. “I appreciate your concern, but I’m fine. This is just temporary.”
“Temporary or not, I don’t like it,” he shot back, shaking his head. “You shouldn’t be here, especially not like this.”
“Niccolò, I can make my own decisions,” she said, her voice steady but firm. “I’m here because I want to be, not because anyone is forcing me.”
Their eyes locked, and for a moment, the world around them faded. Niccolò could see the fire in her gaze, but it only fuelled his determination.
“This isn’t what you should be doing.”
“Is that what this is about?” Emilia replied, crossing her arms. “You think you can come in here and dictate my life?”
“No, that’s not what I’m trying to do!” Niccolò exclaimed, realizing how heated the conversation had become. “I just… I don’t want you to settle for less.”
“Settling?” she echoed, disbelief evident in her voice. “You have no idea what I’m capable of, Niccolò.”
“Lia…” Niccolò started.
“Don’t call me that. I get that you don’t understand the meaning of hearing someone say no but no sir.”
They both glared at each other until Niccolò looked away growling.
“Fine.” Niccolò admonished.
“What can I start you guys off with?” Emilia asked, trying to ignore Niccolò.
Theo and Giancarlo told Emilia to surprise them. As Emilia gracefully made her way back to the kitchen. With each step, she felt a surge of excitement, knowing that she had the opportunity to craft a culinary experience that would leave a lasting impression. She thought of Niccolò and imagines him to be just another customer, instead of the pompous ass he was.
In the kitchen, Emilia moved with purpose and precision, effortlessly. Her hands danced across the cutting board, expertly slicing, dicing, and seasoning. The aromas that filled the air were intoxicating, a tantalizing preview of the feast that awaited the trio.
With the dishes prepared to perfection, Emilia arranged them with an artist's touch, ensuring that each plate was a visual masterpiece.
Carrying the plates with practiced grace, Emilia emerged from the kitchen, ready to serve the culmination of her culinary prowess. Her hazel eyes sparkled with anticipation as she approached their table, her dimple deepening with a smile.
“Here are your dishes gentlemen,” Emilia said, her voice filled with warmth and enthusiasm. “I hope you enjoy the flavours and textures that I've carefully crafted for you. Bon appétit!”
“You made this?” Niccolò questioned.
“Yes sir.”
Niccolò, Giancarlo, and Theo's eyes widened with delight as their plates were placed before them. The presentation was exquisite, a testament to Emilia's attention to detail and her dedication to her craft.
As they took their first bites, a hush fell upon the table, their taste buds awakening to a symphony of flavours. Niccolò, his gaze fixed on Emilia, couldn't help but be in awe of her talent. The way she effortlessly showcased a culinary mastery that was truly remarkable.
Giancarlo, his eyes twinkling with delight, broke the silence.
“Millie bug, these dishes are nothing short of extraordinary! You have truly elevated our dining experience tonight.”
Theo nodded in agreement, his voice filled with admiration. “Emmy, you have a remarkable talent. These flavours are like nothing we've ever experienced before.”
Emilia blushed, humbled by their praise. “Thank you. It brings me great joy to see your appreciation for the food I created.”
Niccolò wanted to say something but before he could a waiter came to Emilia and whispered something in her ear.
“If you’ll excuse me gentlemen, enjoy your evening.”
Niccolò watched as she walked away.
“Is someone perhaps interested in Emilia?” Giancarlo teased as he noticed his friend looking at Emilia.
“Me? No.” Niccolò denied.
“Me thinks thou doth protest brother.” Theo smiled.
“Shut the f**k up and eat your food.” Niccolò said, ignoring them both.
As the door swung open, a familiar figure entered the restaurant, her presence commanding attention.
Isabel, the daughter and heiress of Julio Giordani, stepped into the establishment. Her poise and elegance were matched only by her smile. Her eyes scanned the room until they settled on Niccolò, recognition flickering in their depths.
With a tinge of annoyance, Niccolò watched as Isabel gracefully made her way towards their table. Each step she took exuded confidence.
“Niccolò,” Isabel said, her voice laced with warmth. “I must admit, I'm surprised to see you out.”
Niccolò's tried to contain his irritation, he always found Isabel annoying and condescending. He rose from his seat, extending a hand towards Isabel. He knew if he wasn’t kind he would receive an earful from his mother and he didn’t need that.
“Evening, Isabel,” Niccolò replied, his voice tinged with curt politeness. “Well as you can see, I’m with my friends.”
Isabel's smile widened as she took Niccolò's hand in hers, her touch gentle yet firm. “May I join you at the table?” she asked, gesturing towards the one empty seat. Niccolò hesitated for a moment, glancing at his friends, and then nodded, welcoming her to take a seat.
Emilia was then summoned back to Niccolò's table.
“Good evening I’m Emilia and welcome to our restaurant, what can I get you?” Emilia asked, pen and notepad waiting.
“Oh how the mighty have fallen,” Isabel said with a vicious grin, “Please don’t tell me you cook the meals as well.”
Emilia's hazel eyes sparkled with fury but she kept calm. She nodded, her dimple deepening with a smile.
“Of course I do but you are very much welcome to leave if you feel the need.”
“Just bring me something that’ll wow me.” Isabel drawled.
With that, Emilia gracefully made her way back to the kitchen, her mind already buzzing with ideas. In the kitchen, Emilia's hands moved with purpose and creativity. She carefully selected the freshest ingredients, allowing her intuition and years of culinary expertise to guide her. With each step, she infused the dish with her passion, infusing it with flavours that would resonate with Isabel's palate.
After meticulously plating the dish to perfection, Emilia carried it out to the table, a masterpiece of colours, textures, and aromas. Isabel's eyes lit up in surprise as Emilia placed the plate before her.
“Here you are,” Emilia said, her voice filled with excitement. “I hope you enjoy it.”
- Writer
