the Billionaires circle

Chapter 67: Crafting the Perfect Menu

The late afternoon sun streamed through the kitchen windows, casting a warm glow over the bustling space. Olivia Hawthorne, her soon-to-be husband Gabriel Salazar, and their adopted daughter Mia were gathered around the kitchen island, surrounded by cookbooks, recipe cards, and various ingredients.

"Okay, team," Olivia said, her voice filled with excitement. "We have a big task ahead of us. We need to finalize the menu for the wedding. Everyone ready?"

Mia bounced on her toes, her eyes bright with enthusiasm. "Yes, Mommy! I can't wait to try everything."

Gabriel chuckled, ruffling Mia's hair. "Me too, kiddo. Let's make sure our guests have an unforgettable meal."

Olivia spread out a large sheet of paper on the counter, dividing it into sections for appetizers, main courses, sides, and desserts. "Let's start with appetizers. Any ideas?"

Mia raised her hand eagerly. "What about those mini tacos we made last week? Everyone loved them!"

"Great idea, Mia," Olivia said, writing it down. "Mini tacos with a variety of fillings. What else?"

Gabriel tapped his chin thoughtfully. "How about a charcuterie board? We can include different cheeses, meats, and some fresh fruit. It's always a hit."

Olivia nodded, jotting it down. "Perfect. And maybe some stuffed mushrooms for a bit of elegance?"

"Sounds delicious," Gabriel agreed. "Now, for the main course. We need something that reflects both our tastes and heritage."

"I was thinking we could do a mix," Olivia suggested. "Maybe a traditional roast for the main, and for something more personal, we could include one of your signature dishes, Gabriel."

Gabriel's eyes lit up. "What about my enchiladas? They're a favorite around here, and it would add a nice touch of my culture to the menu."

Mia clapped her hands. "Yes! Daddy's enchiladas are the best!"

"Enchiladas it is," Olivia said, smiling. "And for the roast, how about a herb-crusted beef tenderloin? It's fancy and delicious."

"Perfect combination," Gabriel agreed. "For sides, we should have a good variety. Maybe a mixed green salad with a light vinaigrette, garlic mashed potatoes, and some roasted seasonal vegetables."

"And we can't forget the bread," Olivia added. "Freshly baked rolls with different butters, like garlic and herb, and honey butter."

Gabriel grinned. "Absolutely. Now, the most important part-dessert."

Mia's eyes widened with excitement. "Can we have a dessert table with lots of different treats?"

Olivia and Gabriel exchanged a knowing glance. "I think that's a fantastic idea," Olivia said. "We could have a variety of mini desserts: cupcakes, tarts, and maybe even a chocolate fountain."

"Don't forget the wedding cake," Gabriel reminded them. "We need to decide on flavors."

"I was thinking we could have a multi-tiered cake with different flavors on each tier," Olivia suggested. "Maybe one tier of vanilla with raspberry filling, another of chocolate with hazelnut, and a third of lemon with a light cream."

"Yummy," Mia said, licking her lips. "Can we have some cookies too?"

"Absolutely," Olivia said, adding it to the list. "We'll have a little something for everyone."

They spent the next hour testing recipes and making notes, the kitchen filled with laughter and the delicious aroma of their creations. Gabriel took the lead on the enchiladas, showing Mia how to roll the tortillas just right, while Olivia prepared the salad and sides.

When everything was ready, they set the table and sat down to sample their proposed menu. Each dish was met with nods of approval and happy exclamations from Mia.

"This is going to be the best wedding food ever," Mia declared between bites of enchilada.

"I think you're right," Gabriel said, smiling at his daughter. "We've got a great team here."

As they finished their meal, Olivia felt a wave of contentment wash over her. Planning the wedding menu together had been more than just a task; it had been a bonding experience that brought her family even closer.

"Thank you both for all your help," Olivia said, her eyes shining with gratitude. "This is going to be an amazing wedding, and it's all because of you."

"We wouldn't have it any other way," Gabriel said, squeezing her hand. "We're a team, and we're going to make this day perfect together."

With the menu finalized and their hearts full, Olivia, Gabriel, and Mia cleaned up the kitchen, their excitement for the upcoming wedding growing with each passing day. The journey to this moment had been filled with love, laughter, and countless memories, and they knew that their future would be just as bright.