"I have everything I want, I have fulfilled my dreams"
Yes, that phrase is a joke when you are barely twenty-five years old.
Just wait, this is just beginning.
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Venus
- Order thirty-five is ready!
In the restaurant's kitchen, the heat was stifling, but I was used to it. My movements were precise between the stoves, knives and pots, as if I were dancing to the rhythm of the bustle of the place. The constant sound of boiling pots, sizzling pans and the voices of the waiters ordering dishes mixed in a chaotic symphony that, for me, was familiar and even comforting.
It was nine-thirty at night, we were already past rush hour. With my apron stained and my chef's hat slightly askew, I turned to take out a steak that was about to brown, while I controlled the cooking time of the pasta that was boiling a few meters away.
I had to be precise, almost mechanical, but without losing that creative spark that allows you to add a personal touch to each dish.
- Three steaks, two risottos and a ceviche! - shouted the head waitress, leaning out of the window that led to the kitchen
I didn't answer but I had already heard the order and mentally began to organize the times. Quickly, I glanced at the grill to check that the meats were browned to the perfect point. The intense smells of garlic, butter and herbs filled the air, mixing with the smoke escaping from the pots.
With a quick movement, I finally cut some onions and threw them into a hot pan. The sizzle was immediate, and the aroma rose like a perfumed cloud. In a matter of minutes, the risotto began to take shape, creamy and smooth, with just the right touch of parmesan that turned it into a work of art.
Should I add...?
No, definitely not.
It was not time to experiment, my mind was in constant calculation, adjusting times, temperatures and flavors, I did not want to add another responsibility.
My gaze, attentive to every detail, scrutinized each dish before it came out. I knew that a single mistake could ruin someone's night. When the steaks were ready, I served them with precision on the plates, accompanying them with delicate garnishes of roasted vegetables.
- Plates out! - I said, almost without raising my voice, but with enough authority for the waiters to understand that they were ready to go
As the plates were taken out to the bustling dining room, I was able to take a deep breath with a slight smile on my face. It was only a momentary pause before more orders arrived, but that brief moment gave me a small respite to enjoy the result of my great effort.
- Miss Johnson? - I opened my eyes meeting the head chef - I think you should return to your duties.
-Yes, yes, I'm on it- I nod quickly before heading towards the kitchen again
