Chapter 33
Francesca handed me one of the bowls, while Matteo carried the other two and we stepped onto the stage. Leo and his team were already lined up on the opposite side, waiting with their dishes in hand. Leo caught my eye, smiled gently and nodded. I returned the same, not sure if my inability to breath steadily was a result of nerves or Leo.
Signor Fiore explained how the judging process would work with the judges first tasting Russo’s dish and then ours. The team with the highest combined score would win.
Leo’s and his team offered their plates to the judges waiting patiently at the long table lined with a white linen tablecloth. They stood back in their places, watching as the judges ate. All four judges were masters of the poker face as they carefully chewed each mouthful wit
