So... the response I received was AMAZING for a first chapter (in my opinion). Thank you all so much!

Super nervous again, but here's Chapter 2. Enjoy!


Stagiaire


Megumi sighed before gently laying her head down on the table.

Ever since the end of the Autumn Election, concluding with Akira Hayama as the winner, life had considerably slowed down for the Totsuki first-years. All they had on their plates was class and tedious homework assignments.

Top-of-the-line culinary institute it may be, but it was still a school at its core.

In Megumi's opinion, everyone deserved the reprieve they were given. The Election this year was full of firsts no one was expecting, instilling it with unanticipated drama. Though Megumi had finally learned to gain confidence while cooking under pressure, it didn't mean she was up for the challenge on a regular basis like Soma and the others were.

Unfortunately, life at Totsuki could never be kept at a standstill.

"Oi. Girlie. Wake up."

"Yes, I'm sorry!" Megumi immediately sat up straight in her chair, her light amber eyes becoming wide as she took in who was addressing her.

Ryo Kurokiba.

He stared at her for a minute before speaking again. "They're waiting for us upstairs."

Megumi blinked. "Wh-what?"


Ryo listened quietly, a bored expression on his face. He had already been forewarned of this next event by Alice Nakiri, and so wasn't surprised by the news. The same could not be said for the girl.

"C-could you repeat that, Isshiki-senpai?" asked a shocked Megumi.

Satoshi Isshiki smiled. "A two-week-long stagiaire. You and Kurokiba will be partners for your next assignment, which will be held at a restaurant of our choosing."

Stagiaire: part of the curriculum where first-year high schoolers are sent to professional kitchens.

Ryo rolled his eyes. As if he, of all people, needed to experience what an actual workplace was like.

Oh, well. At least he wouldn't be without company. And it would prove to be a nice break from Miss Alice and the norm.

He glanced at the girl at his side. Her hands were clenched tightly, but her eyes looked determined.

Ryo's lips twitched upward. Yes, it would definitely prove to be a nice break from the norm.