The semi-finals of the cooking show were set to be grander than ever. The entire set buzzed with excitement, cameras shifting angles, producers barking orders, and contestants nervously adjusting their aprons. Lyla stood backstage, inhaling deeply, trying to shake off the unease that had settled in her chest since the previous night.
She hadn't told Noah the full extent of her past with James yet, but his silent support had given her the strength she needed. Whatever fears she had, she wouldn't let them control her.
Jeevon nudged her lightly. "You alright? You seem tense."
Lyla forced a small smile. "Just nerves. It's the semi-finals, after all."
Emily, fixing her chef's coat, huffed. "Oh, please. You? Nervous? You've been the calmest one among us since day one."
Lyla was about to respond when a sudden shift in the atmosphere made her stop.