Page 9 of A Very Grumpy Chef

“Well, you didn’t set off any smoke detectors or start a fire, so that’s an improvement, right?”

“I guess.”

“It will get easier.”

I sigh. “If you say so.”

He tilts his head as he looks at me. “You know, I could give you some private classes.”

“Are you hitting on me, Chef?” I tease.

He locks eyes with me as he nods. “Yes. I’ve never done it before.”

I roll my eyes at his line.

He steps closer. “I’m serious.”

“I don’t see how that’s possible, but okay.”

“I’ve been focused on my career. Never met anyone who made me want to… divert my focus.”

“Um…” My cheeks heat and my mind goes blank.

“Go out with me, Coco. On a date.”

“Okay,” I agree before I can think it through.

“Great!” His eyes light up like it’s Christmas morning.

“When?”

“I’m free tomorrow at lunch. Does noon work for you?”

“Yeah.” I nod.

“Give me your number,” he says, pulling out his phone.

I rattle off my digits.

Alec smiles as he adds my number and tucks his phone back into the pocket of his black pants.

We fall into step as he walks me out to my car.

“Tomorrow,” he says softly.

I smile. “See you.”

I slip into my car and pull out of the parking lot, wondering what I’ve gotten myself into.

6

Alec

This lunch feels huge. It’s my first date with Coco, my first date ever. My heart is racing, and my palms are sweaty as I stop outside Coco’s front door.

I did some research after I asked her out, hoping it would put me at ease. Instead, I learned that lunch dates are considered lame to most. I wish I could change our time, but my schedule will be crazy until I finalize the menu at Palmer’s and get into the swing of things.

I take a deep breath and knock on her door. I hear her moving around inside, and a second later, the door swings open, along with my mouth.