CHAPTER EIGHTY – IMPRESSING THE CRITICS

The next morning dawned bright and humid, typical for Miami. Laura arrived at the diner early, determined to help Tina prepare for her debut as guest chef. As she pushed open the door, she was greeted by the sight of Tina standing in the middle of the kitchen, surrounded by an alarming array of ingredients and wearing an expression of pure panic. "Laura!" Tina exclaimed, relief evident in her voice. "Thank goodness you're here. I have no idea what I'm doing!" Laura surveyed the chaos, trying to hide her own apprehension. "Okay, let's start with the basics. What's on the menu for today?" Tina gestured helplessly at a crumpled piece of paper on the counter. "Mr. Fierro left me this. He wants me to create a 'Floridian Fusion Fiesta' menu. What does that even mean?" Laura picked up the paper, scanning Mr. Fierro's exuberant handwriting. "Let's see... 'Gator Goulash Tacos,' 'Key Lime Pasta Primavera,' 'Cubano Sushi Rolls'... oh boy." "Exactly!" Tina groaned. "I can barely make toast wi