Erina had already begun preparing her dish.
Her movements were precise, filled with a quiet confidence that showed just how skilled she truly was. It was clear that cooking was where Erina's true confidence shone.
Meanwhile, Alice watched with a mischievous smile.
"I wonder what Ryuji and Miss Kaguya would like to eat?"
"For me, anything is fine!" Ryuji said, unfazed. He wasn't picky as long as the food was delicious.
Kaguya thought for a moment and nodded. "If possible, something lighter would be nice!"
"No problem!" Alice replied cheerfully and turned her attention back to her preparations.
Compared to Erina's more traditional approach, Alice's setup was more complex, complete with scales accurate to the gram.
Alice specialized in molecular gastronomy, a type of cuisine that required absolute precision in ingredient measurements and cooking techniques.
"Amazing, isn't it?"
Ryuji noticed how Kaguya's eyes were fixed on the two chefs and asked with a smile.
"It's incredible!" Kaguya said, unable to hide her awe.
Having spent most of her life confined to her family's estate and focusing solely on academic studies, she wasn't accustomed to seeing something like this. While her family had talented chefs, their cooking didn't compare to what was unfolding before her now.
"It's more than just cooking—it's like watching an artist at work."
"Hahahaha!"
Senzaemon's hearty laugh echoed across the room as he heard Kaguya's words.
Erina and Alice were both pride and joy to him. Hearing Kaguya's genuine admiration for them filled him with satisfaction.
"Miss Kaguya, if you ever wish to visit Totsuki Academy again, you're more than welcome at any time."
Even if Ryuji wasn't involved, Kaguya's status as the daughter of the powerful Shinomiya family would have been enough for Senzaemon to extend the invitation.
"Thank you, Mr. Nakiri. I'll keep that in mind!"
Kaguya didn't refuse. Seeing the level of skill firsthand had piqued her interest, and she wanted to know more.
But what really caught her attention was Ryuji. Standing nearby with a warm smile as he watched Erina and Alice cook, an idea suddenly crossed Kaguya's mind.
"Ryuji-san," she started, intending to ask him something, but before she could continue, he reached out and gently flicked her forehead.
"I've told you before, don't be so formal. Just call me by my name," he said, smiling.
He'd told her this before, but Kaguya always reverted to calling him "Ryuji-san" out of habit. It felt more distant that way, and he wanted her to feel comfortable around him.
"I understand," Kaguya said, touching her forehead where he'd tapped her. There was no trace of embarrassment, only a fluttering feeling in her heart.
Does this mean he wants us to be closer? she wondered, a shy smile spreading across her face.
"Ryuji, do you enjoy food a lot?"
The thought that Ryuji might be a food enthusiast, and that's why he came to Totsuki, filled her with excitement.
Ryuji didn't think much of the question and answered honestly, "Food is one of life's greatest joys. Life would be too dull without having something to enjoy."
Once you reached a certain level of strength, life could become monotonous. For Ryuji, his pursuits were simple: good food, beauty, and the small pleasures of life.
"I see!"
Kaguya nodded, her expression thoughtful as she pondered something to herself.
Senzaemon, seated across from them, laughed again and added, "A simple pursuit indeed! You're a man after my own heart, Ryuji."
"…"
Sometimes, if you couldn't find the right words to compliment someone, it was best not to say anything at all. Senzaemon's attempt to bond over shared sentiments felt clumsy and a bit awkward.
"Food's ready!"
Erina's voice broke the moment of awkwardness, drawing everyone's attention.
A dish of seafood was placed in front of Ryuji and the others. The vibrant colors and rich aroma were enough to captivate anyone who looked at it.
"Erina, you've truly outdone yourself," Senzaemon said, his eyes gleaming with pride. He knew his granddaughter's talent well, but her skills had clearly reached new heights.
"Hmph!"
Erina crossed her arms and looked away, a small, proud smile on her face. Despite her confident exterior, she couldn't help but glance at Ryuji, eager for his reaction.
"I'm done too!"
Alice was just a moment behind, presenting her dish with equal pride. Her food, a stunning display of molecular gastronomy, was delicate and intricate in a way that contrasted beautifully with Erina's bold presentation.
"Please enjoy," Alice said with a wink.
"Let's dig in!"
Ryuji reached for Erina's dish first.
"This is incredible!"
Kaguya, who had taken a bite, couldn't help but exclaim.
She'd always heard that Totsuki students were culinary prodigies, but she never imagined the food would be this exceptional. Her past had been so focused on studies and responsibilities that food had been little more than sustenance to her.
Now she understood why Totsuki was considered the pinnacle of culinary education in Japan.
Senzaemon, on the other hand, didn't say anything immediately. Instead—
"Crack!"