Page 54 of The Bear's Perfect Mate
“It’s exactly what I imagined,” Sophie said, her voice full of quiet awe. “Thank you.”
“Wait until you see it lit up with candles and the sunset behind the vines,” Cassia replied with a satisfied smile. “But first, I believe Marco is eager to see you in the kitchen. He’s been reviewing your recipes and checking the ingredients since dawn.”
She led them through the dining area, pausing occasionally to offer quiet guidance to servers arranging flowers or polishing glasses. As they neared the kitchen, the swinging doors openedand released a wave of savory aroma and purposeful sound—chopping, clattering, the low hum of busy voices. The sounds of a busy kitchen.
“These recipes are brilliant in their simplicity,” a voice called out. Marco stood behind the prep table, sleeves rolled to his elbows, a linen towel tossed over one shoulder. “We did a test run yesterday. The way you have combined simple ingredients is sublime.”
“You got the wild mushrooms,” she noted with obvious pleasure, examining a basket of fungi in varied shapes and earthy hues.
“Foraged just yesterday,” Marco confirmed. “And the pomace bread is already proofing, following your instructions to the letter.”
She’s in her element, his bear observed with satisfaction.
And I am in mine,Nero said as he watched her work.
“So we’re ready for this evening?” Sophie asked, surveying the kitchen with a critical eye.
“Yeah,” Marco assured her. “We’ve allocated stations according to your workflow notes, and everyone’s been briefed on the menu progression.”
Nero felt his chest tighten with relief at Marco’s competent response. The dinner would be a collaborative effort, not Sophie working alone in an unfamiliar kitchen. Cassia had ensured she would have the support needed to showcase her talents.
“You’ve done an incredible job,” Sophie said, touching her arm. “I couldn’t have done this without you.”
Cassia flushed with pleasure. “You made it easy, with your beautiful recipes. I just helped bring them to life.”
The kitchen doors swung open again, and Leanne appeared, carrying a crate of linens and herb bundles. Hugo followed close behind with an armful of wine bottles.
“We brought the final touches,” Leanne said cheerfully. “And came to lend a hand, of course.”
“We couldn’t stay away,” Hugo added, casting a warm glance around the space. “It looks like a proper celebration in here.”
Sophie stepped forward to greet them both with a smile that reached her eyes. “Thank you so much. It means a lot to have you here.”
“We’re all proud of you,” Leanne said gently, setting down her crate. “You’re part of this family now.”
Just then, the side door creaked open once more, and Kris strolled in carrying the last case of wines, a folded list of pairings tucked under one arm. “Perfect timing,” he called. “Everything’s ready to go. I’ve labeled the bottles for each course.”
He set the case beside the others and gave Sophie an approving nod. “Your menu sings on its own, but these wines will make it a duet.”
Sophie exchanged a glance with Nero, the happiness in her expression mirrored in his. It wasn’t just a dinner anymore. It was a family effort. The Thornbergs pulling together, rooting for each other as they always did.
Cassia consulted her clipboard one last time and exhaled, visibly more relaxed. “We’re in good shape. The team knows their cues. Marco’s in command, and the place looks stunning.”
Nero checked his watch. “We should go and get ready. Cassia and Marco have everything under control.” He turned to Sophie with a small smile. “And I have something to show you.”
Sophie arched a brow. “No more surprises, I hope?
“I’m not sure I can top ‘by the way, I’m a bear shifter,’” Nero replied.
Sophie covered her mouth as she laughed. “No, I don’t think you can.”
Nero chuckled. “No transformations today, I promise.”
Leanne squeezed Sophie’s shoulder. “Go, we have everything under control here. Take a couple of hours to go get yourself ready.”
Sophie nodded as she glanced around the room one last time. “We’ll be back soon.”
“See you all later,” Nero said with a wave, gently guiding Sophie toward the exit.
