Page 24 of A Recipe for Romance

"Can you believe it? The influencer actually won."

"I told you, there’s something between her and Chef Carlson. Did you see how he looked at her?"

Kelsi’s joy mingled with anxiety at those whispers, but she pushed the thoughts aside. She and Drew would deal with the rumors later. Tonight was about celebrating her journey, her growth—and the incredible man who had been by her side through it all.

As she held her trophy high, Kelsi caught Drew’s eye across the crowd. They exchanged a brief, meaningful look—full of unspoken promises. Later, they would talk. Later, they would celebrate in private.

For now, Kelsi basked in the glow of her victory, knowing that this was just the beginning. Whatever came next—professionally, personally—she was ready for it. Because with Drew by her side, they were unstoppable.

The best was yet to come.

Chapter 16: Kelsi

The drive to Drew’splace felt longer than usual, even though the streets were quiet. Kelsi’s mind raced, replaying the events of the day over and over. Her victory in the finale, the overwhelming pride she felt in herself, and the electric moments she shared with Drew amidst the confetti and applause. It was everything she had dreamed of and more—yet, she couldn’t shake the feeling that everything was about to change.

The media attention was already starting to swirl around her, with fans and critics alike speculating about her relationship with Drew. And while they’d both been careful, she knew it wouldn’t be long before someone put the pieces together. It was the downside of having her life so publicly broadcasted.

Her phone buzzed on the seat beside her—another text from a well-wisher. She’d been getting messages nonstop since the finale aired, and while the support was heartwarming, she couldn’t help but feel the growing pressure. Tonight’s conversation with Drew felt like the start of something much bigger than either of them had anticipated.

As she pulled into the driveway of Drew’s apartment, Kelsi took a deep breath, trying to steady herself. She loved him, and she knew he loved her too. Whatever challenges lay ahead, they’d face them together. But the enormity of what came next still made her heart race.

The door to Drew’s apartment was already slightly ajar, and as she stepped inside, she found him standing in the living room, pacing, a mix of tension and determination etched on his face.

“Hey,” she said softly, closing the door behind her.

Drew turned toward her, the intensity in his eyes softening when he saw her. “Hey,” he replied, crossing the room in a few strides to pull her into his arms.

They stood there for a moment, wrapped in each other, drawing comfort from the closeness. Kelsi rested her head against his chest, feeling the steady beat of his heart. It was moments like this that reminded her why they were worth the fight.

“You okay?” she asked, pulling back just enough to look up at him.

Drew sighed, running a hand through his hair. “Yeah, I just... I talked to Zak tonight.”

Kelsi’s stomach flipped. She knew where this was going.

“And?” she prompted, bracing herself.

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