“That roux has been in the family for a while. I modernized it for the cookbook, but the one I serve at my restaurant is the authentic family recipe. It’s always a favorite amongst my regulars.”

“I am a regular. The seafood gumbo will have you calling an Uber home so you can sleep on the ride.”

“The itis is real.”

“Another question a lot of viewers want to know is if you have a special somebody in your life who gets to taste your meals at home.”

I shrugged. “Not yet. I’m really just focused on being the best mother to my son. He deserves all my love. If someone comes along who can love him unconditionally, then I’d be open to dating. However, I’m really content with my life right now. Dating can get messy.”

“You are absolutely right. There are always so many debates on social media about what the current dos and don’ts on dating are. It’s such a headache.”

“And is! All I want is to do the things I love with the people I love.”

“Period! Speaking of doing the things you love, we have a kitchen set up to watch you in your element. We want to see the Honey Hix in action with one of your favorite recipes in the new cookbook.”

“Let’s do it!”

“We’ll be right back with an exclusive Honey Hix demonstration.”

The camera turned off, and we transitioned to the kitchen set. It was fun to put on the apron and chef’s hat to create the smothered pork chops and mashed potatoes for the audience. Once I was in front of the camera, I was in my element.

To support my family by doing the thing I loved most was a blessing. I never felt resentment or frustration when I got a gig, because this was what my heart desired. Being in the kitchen, sharing food with my fans, and traveling the world was an amazing experience. After I finished the demonstration, everyone in the audience got a free copy of my cookbook. I thanked LeAnn for having me and joined my favorite guy in the green room.

When he saw me, his light brown eyes lit up.

“You did good, Mommy.” He ran into my arms, and I picked him up and kissed his cheek.

“Thank you. Are you ready to go?”

“Yup!”

“Do you know what you want for dinner? I can stop by the store and get the ingredients.”

“I want lobster and the white pasta, please.”

“Will you help me make the dish?”

“Yes.”

“Then that’s what we will have.”

I placed him back on his feet, and we walked hand in hand to the car where my driver awaited us.

“To the market, please, Moe.”

Moe was in his mid-thirties and always wore a black suit. He was ex-military and played both the bodyguard and driver role, depending on where we were. He was dark skinned with waves and was very muscular. He opened the door for us and looked at me to confirm Quis’s request. I nodded.

“Yup. My boy wants lobster Alfredo for dinner.”

Moe chuckled. “I’ll need a plate too.”

“You know we’ll always have enough for you to get a plate too.”

“This is why I’m three hundred pounds now.” He waited until I was in my seat before he closed the door and got into the driver’s seat.

“The weight looks good on you.”

“Thank you, Miss Hix.”