I hadn’t invited her.
Someone else had.
She was a food journalist connected through a friend of a friend.
She entered carrying a small camera bag and considerable curiosity.
“I heard what happened,” she said. “Is it okay if I taste a few things?”
Ava stood frozen beside the oven, eyes wide.
She looked like someone unexpectedly invited to perform live on television.
I agreed on her behalf and handed the journalist a plate.
The woman did more than taste.
She photographed dishes, questioned Ava about ingredients, and took notes.
