Mommy, Where Is Daddy? The Forsaken Daughter's Return novel Chapter 60

The afternoon was another quiet time for the kitchen. So Samantha took the chance to discuss with her team the upcoming grand opening of the hotel. They were two weeks away and like as she did with their regular dishes; she wanted to make some slight modifications to the planned courses.

Since they did not have any orders at three in the afternoon, nor were the reservations in the evening that significant, they tested on her alterations, cooking the required dishes according to Samantha's adjustments.

The Pearl Diamond Restaurant was made closed for their own food tasting and discussion over the dishes.

"Hmmm... This is just heaven," remarked Anthony. "Wonder why I never tried it this way!"

"I love the mix seafood dish!" Remarked Jane. "I did not think it was possible to use lemon leaves as an added aroma!"

Samantha chuckled and said to them, "Sometimes, you learn things as you cook for your child."

Matteo, on the other hand, was the one to first taste the set of sea urchin scrambled eggs. He was silent as he chewed down the creamy dish.

Everyone waited for his approval so they all fell silent.

Matteo cleared his throat and drank a glass of water. He said, "The idea of having scrambled eggs as an appetizer appalls me." He looked down at the dish before adding, "But it's fucking good."

Claps could be heard across the restaurant and Jane cheered, "Chef Matteo and Chef Sam agreed!"

It left Samantha smiling, and while Matteo did not smile at all. He at least expressed, "the changes are good."

When everyone dispersed back into their stations, Samantha took the chance to speak to Matteo in person.

It would seem to Samantha that he remained in the restaurant on purpose. Before she could say another word, Matteo said, "When I heard that you did not have any Michelin Star experience, I frowned. You lacked that experience to turn this restaurant into a refined one."

Matteo sighed and told, "But I will not deny that your views and your passion for food make you unique. Still, I think you need more experience in managing the kitchen. You can't suddenly take over the kitchen just because your kitchen staff turned rebellious. It would have been more practical of you to threaten us for suspension or getting fired."

"Is it? And then what? Look for new chefs to train two weeks before the grand opening?" Samantha pointed out. "I get that I may not have the sternness expected of a leader that everyone is used to... coming from you, but ... I know that I have the heart."

"My ways will be different," Samantha added. "Sure, I thought about it. Even my husband suggested letting you go, but I want to make practical decisions."

"And with your experience, Matteo, I could really use your help." Samantha sighed and expressed, "More than just a career for myself, I don't want to let my husband down."

She did not know why, but she became teary-eyed as she expressed, "He brought me and my kids so much joy and contentment. So I want to make him proud. Aside from doing this for myself, I want him to be successful in the hospitality industry."

"So more than just being your boss, as a wife of your highest boss, I am also asking for your help. Work with me and let's bring fame to this hotel through the food that we make." Samantha extended her hand to Matteo and suggested, "We don't have to be friends, but we could... at least work harmoniously... Is that a deal?"

For a second, Matteo, with his rigid expression, his grey eyes, and his well-defined face, gawked at Samantha's hand. He gasped just before he reached for her hand and he said, "Fine, but I want to be off on Saturdays."

"Works well for me. I prefer Sundays as my off," Samantha answered.

"If Mr. Wright wants to take this restaurant to a Michelin level, he needs to hire more chefs," suggested Matteo.

Samantha raised a finger and told, "I agree, but not right now. I will, however, put up a request to hire more and so they can be ready, once our restaurants become busier."

Matteo nodded. He let go of Samantha's hand and said, "And about Deana. I can try, but she... she has a mind of her own."

With a smile, Samantha answered, "Thank you, Chef Matteo... Let's prepare for dinner service now."

Just as Samantha got up, Matteo implied, "You must love your husband."