Chapter 45

Mikayla's POV
Not long after that, we went to the kitchen to make a cup of tea. While waiting for the water to boil, Rudolf looked at me and said, “I’m glad you found something you love, Mikayla. Painting and cooking are great ways to express yourself.”
“Thank you, Rudolf. Your support means a lot to me,” I replied, looking at him with love.
My gratitude blossomed in my heart.
In this life, the feeling of having a partner who always supports me every step of the way is everything.
With a cup of warm tea in hand, we felt the longing and warmth flowing between us.
The next day, I was ready to wait for Chef Amarta to arrive. My spirits soared as I imagined all the new things we would make in the kitchen. However, this time, she was a little late from the scheduled time.
When the door opened, Chef Amarta appeared with a slightly pale face. “Sorry, I’m late. I had a little stomach ache,” she explained, speaking in a gentle tone.
“Are you okay?” I asked worriedly while looking at her. “Maybe we can reschedule if you’re feeling uncomfortable.”
“Oh, no. I’m fine. Just a little discomfort. I’ll definitely be able to get through today,” she said, smiling at me even though she looked a little tired.
A sense of relief enveloped my heart when I heard his willingness. “Okay, if you feel up to it, I can’t wait to continue our lesson on cooking pasta!” I said, excited.
We immediately headed to the kitchen to prepare everything we had prepared yesterday. Chef Amarta took a breath, giving himself time to adjust before starting. “Let’s start with the ingredients we’ve prepared,” she said while taking the ingredients out of the refrigerator.
Together we prepared the pasta dough. Chef Amarta showed me the basic techniques for making fresh pasta, and this time I really listened attentively. Each step felt like an exciting adventure, and I could feel the cooking spirit starting to flow through me.
“Now, we are going to roll this dough out thinly. Make sure to apply enough pressure but not too much,” she instructed as she showed me how to effectively turn the pasta rolling machine.
I observed each technique she taught me. The results were getting closer to the pasta shape I had dreamed of. I felt more confident as I rolled the dough.
With Chef Amarta’s support, we moved on to the next step. “Once the pasta is ready, we are going to make a fresh and aromatic marinara sauce. It is a very simple sauce but very delicious,” she said as she served the necessary ingredients.
As we started to cut the onions and tomatoes, I continued to discuss and ask about the important steps in the sauce-cooking technique.
This activity made me feel like I was entering a new world, where every aroma and flavor interacted with each other.
“I am glad we can continue today even though it is a little late,” I said, looking at Chef Amarta who seemed to be getting better as time went by.
“That’s it. I think we will get great results. Thank you for your understanding, Mikayla. Let’s enjoy this process,” she replied, her smile growing wider, filling the kitchen with excitement and happiness.
Once we had all the ingredients ready and finished the meal, I couldn’t wait for Rudolf and the kids to come home. Excitement was burning inside me. They definitely had to know that I had served them a special pasta made by me and Chef Amarta.
After setting the table and garnishing the food with fresh herbs, I felt my stomach flutter with anticipation. Not long after, the sound of the door opening, and Rudolf, Emma, and Daniel entered the house with big smiles.
“Mom, we’re home!” Daniel exclaimed, running towards the kitchen. Emma followed him excitedly.
“Come see what Mom has prepared for us today!” I said, pointing to the ready dining table.
When they saw the pasta that had been served, their faces immediately lit up. “Wow! This looks amazing, Mom!” Emma said with sparkling eyes.
Rudolf smiled widely, nodding in praise. “You did a great job, honey!” he said, looking at me proudly. “I can’t wait to try it!”
After everyone sat down at the table, I served the pasta to their plates, and it felt like the clock was ticking faster every second before they tried it. “Enjoy your meal, everyone!” I said, feeling so happy watching the family gather.
As soon as they started to taste the pasta I had just made, their reactions were amazing. “Hmm… This is so delicious, Mom! Your pasta is much better than the ones in restaurants!” Daniel shouted happily, making me feel so proud.
Emma didn’t want to be outdone, “That’s right! The sauce is so delicious and just right!” She kept taking bite after bite, never stopping to praise.
Rudolf, while enjoying the portion of pasta, nodded in agreement. “You are really amazing, Mikayla. I am sure all the techniques Chef Amarta taught me really paid off. This is more than I expected!”
My face was filled with happiness. Seeing them enjoying the food I made all the efforts and lessons I had learned feel so worthwhile. Every compliment and smile from them warmed my heart.
As the dinner continued with laughter, I felt satisfaction in my blood. My family gathered, enjoying the meal and telling each other about their day. It was a beautiful moment and made me feel so grateful for the journey I had taken.
“Thank you for accompanying me to learn how to make this dish, Chef Amarta. Today was very meaningful!” I said, looking at Chef Amarta who had also joined us.
“Oh, I am so happy to share this experience with you, Mikayla. And I heard everyone loved it!” Chef Amarta replied with a smile, feeling satisfied seeing the results of my work that brought happiness to this house.