CHAPTER FIFTEEN – THE CEO’S DEMANDING MOTHER

The rest of the afternoon unfolded into a frustrating and humiliating blur. With a growing sense of desperation, Kayla drove them to three more catering companies across the city. Each visit followed the same pattern – a polite greeting, a hopeful inquiry about availability, and then the inevitable disappointment. "Completely booked," they were told, "for months in advance." Kayla couldn't help but suspect something fishy was going on. Was it just a coincidence that all of Barbara's preferred caterers were unavailable on the same date? A nagging doubt began to gnaw at her. Their final stop was at a smaller, more family-run establishment tucked away in a quiet neighborhood. Though less opulent than Pierre's, it had a warm, inviting atmosphere and a menu that boasted fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Relief flooded Kayla as the manager, a friendly woman with a ready smile, confirmed their availability for the banquet date. But before Kayla could celebrate, Barbara launched into an