Page 42 of The TV Show Rival
Her straightforward explanation brought a spark of clarity to the team’s eyes.
Meanwhile, Jess was surrounded by a group fretting over their lack of protein. “Don’t panic! Remember, there are other ways to get protein. Beans can be a fantastic source, and they pair beautifully with those sweet potatoes you have.”
Her suggestion was met with surprised smiles. The team, clearly used to focusing on meat as the main source of protein, hadn’t considered the humble bean.
Despite the competition, an unexpected friendship began to bloom in the kitchen. Teams offered each other advice, shared cooking techniques, and even swapped a few ingredients here and there.
The competitive spirit was still present, but it was tempered by a newfound respect for each other’s skills and a shared love for Costa Rican cuisine.
As the afternoon sun began its descent, a mouthwatering aroma filled the air. The teams presented their creations—a fiery fish stew from Boot Camp Brigade, and a fragrant coconut curry with lime-marinated fish from Zen Warriors.
It was time for judging. The judges, a panel of local chefs, sampled each dish with care. They assessed the taste, the presentation, and the creativity with which the ingredients were used. The team held their breath.
Finally, Roger stepped forward, his face unreadable.
“The winner of the Costa Rican Cuisine Clash is…” he paused, letting the suspense build, “… a tie!”
A chorus of gasps and surprised laughter broke out. Both teams had created delicious, authentic dishes reflecting different culinary philosophies.
Jess’ team had impressed with their bold, flavorful stew, while Jamie’s team had won over the judges with their light and balanced dish.
Jess, despite the competitive fire in her belly, couldn’t help but grudgingly admit the other team had created a worthy dish. She stole a glance at Jamie, who offered a small smile in return.
Jess practically sprinted the last stretch of beach, the sand sinking softly beneath her bare feet.
Moonlight bathed the secluded cove in an ethereal glow, casting long shadows from the swaying palm trees. There, perched on a weathered driftwood log, was Jamie, a solitary silhouette framed by the glistening ocean.
Relief and a heat of something much hotter washed over Jess. All day, the memory of Jamie’s laugh, the lingering warmth of their accidental brush during the challenge, had played in her head. Now, seeing her, she couldn’t help herself.
With a whoop and a scream of childish glee, she broke into a run, her laughter echoing across the beach. Jamie whirled around, a surprised gasp escaping her lips before a wide grin stretched across her face. She ran towards her too and they collided in a warm hug.
The kiss that followed was both fierce and hungry.
Jess melted into Jamie’s embrace, the scent of salt air and coconut shampoo intoxicating.
“Easy there, Sergeant Bootcamp,” Jamie teased, her voice breathless.
“You have no idea how good it feels to be away from everyone and in your arms.”
Jamie snorted. “Is that right, Drill Sergeant? You act all tough during the day, but under this moonlit sky, you’re just a big softie, aren’t you, Jess?”
Jess huffed, a playful punch landing on Jamie’s arm. “Says the woman who practically tackled me when I walked in.”
“Hey, you started it. But I must say, all that posturing on the training field hides a very… different kind of need.” She smiled, her fingers trailing down Jess’ arm.
Jess couldn’t help but grin. “Maybe, but let’s keep that little secret between us, shall we? My reputation for being a heartless taskmaster might take a serious hit if anyone found out I’m weak as a kitten when I’m alone with you.”
Jamie laughed heartily. Pulling Jess close again, she murmured against her ear, “Don’t worry, Sergeant. Your secret’s safe with me. After all, who am I to judge? I, too, couldn’t wait for a little… forbidden moonlight rendezvous.”
“All day I just think about fucking you,” Jamie whispered in Jess’ ear and Jess felt shivers run through her body.
Being pinned down and fucked by Jamie was the greatest pleasure she had ever experienced. She was usually far too uptight to come for a partner, but with Jamie, her orgasm had been embarrassingly easy.
They sat together on the big log, arms around each other as they listened to the rhythm of the waves.
“Who knew a cooking competition could be so exciting?”
Jamie chuckled. “Honestly, I never thought I’d see the day you’d enjoy working with anyone, Jess, especially not a bunch of yoga enthusiasts.”