Unexpected message

Between flavors and secrets

The next message from Efes arrived before I could even process the previous one.

Efes: "If you ever cook for me, I promise not to leave a single crumb."

I felt a slight flutter in my stomach. Since when could a simple message make me feel like this? I rolled my eyes, trying to ignore the warmth creeping into my cheeks. I wasn't going to let him win so easily.

Feslin: "And who said I would invite you? Maybe I prefer to keep my kitchen exclusive."

I waited for his reply with a smile, knowing it wouldn't take long. And sure enough, my screen lit up seconds later.

Efes: "Exclusive, huh? Now I want to try it even more."

I shook my head, laughing silently. He was too good at this game. But what intrigued me the most wasn't his ability to flirt, it was the feeling that there was something more behind his words. As if he wasn't just talking about food.

I decided to change the course of the conversation.

Feslin: "Tell me something. If you weren't cooking Michelin-star-worthy dishes, what would you be doing?"

A minute passed. Then another. Finally, a response.

Efes: "Traveling. Tasting flavors from all over the world. I've always thought the best way to get to know someone is through their food."

Feslin: "Interesting theory. So if I taste your food, I'll know who you are?"

A pause. Then, a response that made my heart beat a little faster.

Efes: "If you taste my food, you'll know me better than you think."

I swallowed hard, feeling how the conversation had turned deeper without either of us planning it.

What was this man doing to me?