chapter 24

The next morning, I dressed carefully, choosing an outfit that was stylish but not too flashy. Arriving at the cooking class early, my heart pounded as I stood in the lobby, nerves threatening to overwhelm me.

“What am I supposed to do?” I said hoarsely to myself, then took a deep breath, gathering my courage. I proceeded inside, my heels slapping the floor, carrying a box bag in my hand.

Inside the apartment, chaos reigned. Just as Mia had described, everyone was too caught up in their own arguments to notice my entrance.

“I must be famous around here,” I said loudly, trying to get their attention.

Heads turned, faces full of remorse, some craning to see who had spoken. I recognized Mrs. Elizabeth as she turned to face me, a serving spoon in her right hand.

“Who are you? Are you interviewing today?” a woman in a light blue outfit and apron asked.

“Yes,” I smiled. I spotted Amory’s mother, who immediately recognized me and lowered the spoon she was holding. I took a couple of steps