Puddles collected as rain fell persistently that humid Florida evening. Droplets slid through the cuts on my face and into my eyes. But sloshing along in a hurry to make it to my date, I barely noticed.

I saw the warm glow of Cafe Amore in the distance and quickened my pace. As I reached the door, I saw her, and she saw me, her eyes instantly changing from annoyance at my late arrival to concern ...

“Look at you,” mom murmured , a gasp escaping her as she adjusted my veil and looked adoringly at my reflection.

I smiled, a rosy glow coming to my cheeks.

“You’re beautiful,” she sighed, contented that her work had met with success.

I raised my dark lashes and peered into the full-length mirror. When I looked into the mirror, even I took in a breath; a lovely young woman stood before me, her flow...

Steam arose from the boiling steel cauldron.

“It is nearly finished, but it's still missing something...”

Sprinkling in some garlicky seasoning, I sniff the damp but flavourful air with pleasure before dipping a ladle into the stew. I take a sip of the hot liquid and a smile spreads over my features. It is savory with herbs, vegetables, meat, and spices, but there’s also this tangy edge to it. Thi...