THE ALPHA'S REJECTED MATE ( I have a baby for him)

Part 28

ALORA

The dawn broke with a golden light that streamed through the windows of the kitchen, casting a warm glow over the countertops and the neatly arranged ingredients. Today was my day, the day to prove that I was worthy of being the mate of a council member. The pressure was immense, but it was also a challenge I was ready to meet head-on.

I gathered my team of chefs around me, their faces a mixture of excitement and nerves. They had been handpicked to assist me in the kitchen as it was my turn to cook for everyone.

"Today, we're not just cooking a meal," I told them, my voice steady despite the butterflies in my stomach. "We're creating an experience. Each dish needs to tell a story, and together, we'll make sure it's a story no one will ever forget."

We started early, venturing out to the nearby farms to source the freshest ingredients. The air was crisp, the fields lush and green, and I could feel the earth's energy beneath my feet as we walked among the crops. The farmers greeted us warmly, their pride in their produce shining through as they handed us baskets of vegetables, herbs, and fruits. Every item we selected was carefully chosen, each one a building block for the feast that would soon unfold.

Back in the kitchen, we worked in perfect harmony, the clatter of pots and pans blending with the sound of chopping knives and sizzling oil. The aroma of roasting meats filled the air, mingling with the scent of fresh herbs and spices. My heart swelled with pride as I watched my team work, each of them pouring their passion and skill into every dish.

As the sun dipped low in the sky, we filled the tables in the dining hall with a bounty of food. Roasted meats, colorful salads, freshly baked bread, and my signature pot roast—everything looked perfect. The hall was soon filled with people , their faces alight with anticipation. I could hear the murmurs of excitement as they took their seats, the clinking of glasses and cutlery creating a symphony of celebration.

Sebastian, Elias, Ines, and Calista sat with me at the head table, the table was separate from every other table because Sebastian was a Council member. Since the Royal guards recruitment was still on going, Sebastian declined staying in the council member's quarters. I understood why he didn't want to be there yet and his duties weren't active due to the recruitment. 

Alora, this is incredible!" Elias exclaimed, his fork hovering over his plate as he savored the flavors. "I don't think I've ever tasted anything like this."

Ines nodded in agreement, her eyes wide with admiration. "The depth of flavor is just... amazing. You've outdone yourself."

Calista, always the one to be straightforward, smiled brightly. "If you keep cooking like this, Alora, everyone will fall in love with you even more. Just imagine the Council members taste your cooking when you guys decide to move to the Westside. you'll have the entire Royal Council at your feet! I mean, who doesn't like food?"  

I blushed at their praise, feeling a warm glow spread through me. "Thank you, but I couldn't have done it without my team. They've worked so hard to make this meal special."

Sebastian reached over and took my hand, his eyes shining with pride. "You've done more than just cook a meal, Alora. You've created something magical."

As the evening wore on, people approached our table, each one offering their compliments. They spoke of flavors they had never experienced before, of how each bite was a revelation. It was everything I had hoped for. 

Aziel and Constance came up to our table. "Your cooking has always been excellent Alora, I requested seconds." I smiled politely but Constance scoffed. "Why would I eat food prepared by you? Goddess knows what you put inside." She smirked at me and dragged Aziel away.