Chapter 14: Travel Log
Early in the morning, the contestants walked out of the greenroom and into the kitchen. Standing there were Emma and Killian, Emma in a stylish black and white dress and Killian in a dapper suit. The two hosts seemed to exude an air of discomfort next to each other, creating a noticeable tension in the room.
As the cameras started rolling, Emma began to speak. "Welcome back, contestants. As you know, Food Channel stars don't spend all their time in the kitchen. They're often on the road, sharing favorite food destinations with the viewers."
"We're sending you guys to check out downtown LA's uber-hip Grand Central Market," Killian Jones added. "Featuring some of the best chefs in ethnic cuisines of the city, so you guys are gonna pair up and shoot a team report on one of the food vendors."
Excitement filled the room as everyone clapped. This was a fun little excursion, and Regina could already feel her anticipation building.
"The goal of your report," Emma chimed in, "is to show us that you and your partner are a dynamic food travel duo."
The tension lingered as Chef Killian continued, "Everybody, pick a partner."
Regina's eyes scanned the room, and she locked eyes with Anton. A smirk played on her lips, and he responded with a wink. They joined forces, an interesting study in contrasts — she, beautiful and feminine, and he, gruff and robust. Regina enjoyed the visual appeal their pairing created.
As the pairs formed, Emma continued, "Little John, it looks like you and Robin are going to shoot a show together. Jasinta and Tink, Ruby and Leroy, Anton and Regina, Mulan and Sabine, Kathryn and Victoria."
Victoria's discomfort was evident as she voiced her concerns about their different preferences. An awkward silence filled the room before Emma pressed on with the instructions.
"Once you arrive at Grand Central Market, you'll have 30 minutes at your food venue to rehearse and shoot your one-minute travel log."
With a swift "Go!" from Killian, the contestants scattered, each pair heading in different directions. Regina and Anton strolled into the market, soaking in the atmosphere.
They reached Belcampo Meat Co., a butcher shop serving organic and humane meat sourced from their farm. Regina and Anton took notes, absorbing information about the 100% grass-fed meat and farm-grown vegetables.
Time flew, and as the half-hour mark approached, Regina felt a sense of liberation working with Anton. The tension that had weighed on her in recent days seemed to dissipate.
"I think we need to tell the world about this place?" Anton suggested.
"Absolutely!" Regina agreed, determined to showcase their teamwork. They gathered as much information as possible, and when the time came, they prepared to face the cameras with only ten minutes left.
As the director called "Action," Regina and Anton began their report at Belcampo Meat Co. Regina, determined to bring her authentic self to the camera, encouraged Anton when he stumbled. Despite some hiccups, they managed to convey the essence of the place.
When Regina asked about the time remaining, the cameraman responded with, "Two and a half minutes." With the clock ticking, they knew they had one take to get it right. The pressure was on.
The group walked back into the Food Channel Star kitchen, the air now tinged with a new anxious energy. Emma and Killian were joined by a new face, and as the cameras rolled, Killian introduced the guest judge.
"Joining us to help evaluate your reports on Grand Central Market is actress and Cooking Channel star, Haylie Duff."
Applause filled the room, and Regina couldn't help but notice Robin's starstruck gaze. She wondered if that was the same expression she wore when looking at Emma. The banter shifted to Haylie's upcoming show before Killian steered the conversation back to the main event.
"Okay, Sabine and Mulan…"
The room held its breath as the reports played. Sabina and Mulan impressed everyone with their engaging presentation.
Then came Regina and Anton's turn. Regina, disappointed in the performance, had done all the talking while Anton focused on devouring the food. It turned out to be a piece heavy on personality but lacking in the crucial details about the burger, the main attraction at Belcampo Meat Co.
"Anton, you didn't even tell us what you ordered or what you were eating," Emma pointed out, expressing her disappointment. "Regina ordered deep-fried broccoli, and that's okay, but it's a meat company. I didn't get to learn very much about the burger itself, which is what they're known for."
Regina nodded, acknowledging the valid critique. "That being said," Haylie interjected, "you did a great job describing your food."
Regina smiled at the unexpected praise. "Thank you," she replied, feeling a slight sense of relief.
The evaluations continued. Ruby and Leroy's dynamic was energetic but lacked focus on the food. Robin and Little John showcased a bromance, but their report fell short on the culinary details.
Jacinta and Tink, on the other hand, delivered an excellent performance, captivating the judges with their presentation.
Kathryn and Victoria's report was awkward, drawing only a blunt comment from Emma. "It's rough… it's a little rough."
In the end, Tink and Jacinta, along with Mulan and Sabine, emerged as the standout teams of the challenge. The evaluations concluded, leaving the contestants on edge, awaiting the next twist in their culinary journey.
Regina flopped onto her hotel bed, feeling the weight of disappointment settling on her shoulders. With a heavy sigh, she reached for her phone and dialed a familiar number. After a few rings, a small voice greeted her on the other end.
"Hi, Mom!" Henry's cheerful tone brought a hint of warmth to Regina's heart.
"Hey, Henry," she replied, trying to hide the strain in her voice.
"Are you okay, Mom? You sound sad."
Regina paused, unsure of how much to share with her son. "It's just been a tough day. Things didn't go as well as I hoped at the competition."
"Aw, don't worry, Mom. You're the best cook ever! You can do anything. Remember what you always tell me—never give up, keep trying," Henry encouraged her.
A small smile formed on Regina's lips at her son's unwavering belief in her. "You're right, my little prince. Thank you for reminding me. I'll keep trying my best."
"Exactly! I know you'll do great, Mom. I'm proud of you, always."
Regina's heart swelled with affection for her son. "I love you, Henry."
"I love you too, Mom! Sleep tight and don't worry too much, okay?"
"Okay. Goodnight, sweetheart."
After she hung up with Henry, Regina was restless she decided to go for a walk but as Regina stepped out, still feeling a bit subdued, Kathryn appeared, suggesting they go out.
"Come on, let's have some fun," Kathryn urged, sensing Regina's need for distraction.
Regina agreed, and they headed out to a vibrant club, immersing themselves in the lively atmosphere. The pulsating music and the rhythm of the dance floor helped to momentarily lift Regina's spirits. However, as the night progressed, she felt an unease creep in.
Kathryn, caught up in the revelry, moved in a bit too close for Regina's comfort. She couldn't help but draw away, feeling the lines of their past brush against the present reality—Kathryn was now married, their connection forever altered.
Regina excused herself and made her way to the restroom, seeking a moment of solitude. It was there, in the quiet confines of the bathroom, that she unexpectedly encountered Emma.
Their eyes met in the reflection of the mirror, and Regina couldn't help but feel a flutter of something long buried. But before any words could pass between them, the moment hung in an unspoken tension, each grappling with their own thoughts and emotions.
Regina's heart raced as she remembered the complexities of their past. She hesitated, unsure if she should say anything, but the words lingered on the tip of her tongue.
They were drawn together as if they were magnets. Regina backed Emma up into the stall. They had sex there ardently up against the door of that bathroom stall. Regina and Emma stood in the aftermath of their impulsive encounter, the air thick with a mixture of passion and uncertainty. Regina took a moment to compose herself before stepping out of the stall. Emma lingered, her gaze fixed on Regina's face as if trying to memorize every detail.
Regina spoke with a firm yet gentle tone, "I won't say anything."
Emma, still caught in the intensity of the moment, gently caressed Regina's cheek. "I can't stop thinking about you," she confessed in a hushed whisper. "I'm not out," she added, "but when this is over…"
Regina pressed a soft kiss to the inside of Emma's wrist. "I understand," she replied, a silent understanding passing between them. As Emma stepped out of the stall, Regina remained behind, ensuring the coast was clear before joining her in the bathroom.
Later, as Regina and Kathryn shared a quiet moment, Kathryn dropped an unexpected revelation. "Emma was at the club tonight. She was with a friend," she shared casually.
Regina feigned surprise as Kathryn shared the unexpected news about Emma's presence at the club. Deep down, Regina couldn't help but wonder about the dynamics between Emma and her friend. However, instead of letting Kathryn suspect anything beyond a professional relationship, Regina decided to take control of the situation.
As they continued their conversation, Regina subtly started spreading a carefully crafted rumor. With an air of feigned concern, she shared the fabricated story that Emma and Killian were romantically involved. The whispers would begin to circulate through the set, creating an undercurrent of tension.
Regina would have to observe the reactions around her. She wanted to ensure that No one would suspect anything beyond the roles of contestant and judge between her and Emma. The rumor served as a protective shield, diverting attention away from the real connection that was growing beneath the surface.
In the midst of the intricate web of relationships, Regina couldn't help but wonder how her strategic move would play out and what consequences it might bring.
