Chapter 293

Madison

“This sea bass is transcendent,” Hazel moaned, closing her eyes as she savored another bite. “I might need a moment alone with it.”

Alexander chuckled, swirling the wine in his glass. “The chef has a particular talent with seafood. He sources it directly from fishermen he’s worked with for decades.”

“Of course he does,” Hazel said, shooting me a look that clearly said ‘Is this man for real?’ “Let me guess, they call him personally when they catch something exceptional?”

“Actually, yes,” Alexander replied without a hint of irony. “Last month, he flew to Japan for a particularly rare bluefin tuna.”

I nearly choked on my wine. “You’re making that up.”

“I never joke about food, Madison.” His eyes sparkled with amusement. “Ask him yourself if you don’t believe me.”

“I believe you,” I said. “That’s what makes it ridiculous.”

Hazel pointed her fork at me. “This from the woman who once ate ramen for breakfast, lunch, and dinner