Ch. 871..880
Chapter 871: Total Score_1 The entire audience was shocked!
Everyone was surprised.
They assumed there would be more rounds of the competition yet.
This was supposed to be the semi-finals featuring the top ten.
How did it turn into a final so suddenly?
Which implies, the tickets they are holding are for the grand finale!
A viewer who purchased the season ticket finally got it, “No wonder my ticket is only valid until today’s event, there are no more tickets left.
...
I was wondering if Pingla was going to release another batch of tickets to make more money.
Who knew, today is the final magic contest.”
“This is too abrupt!
Today’s only the top ten!
Is the champion to be selected from these 10 contestants already?” a member of the audience exclaimed, “This is too difficult!
The ones who get eliminated, they don’t even get a chance to struggle back?”
Typically, one or two contestants are eliminated at a time.
The contestants who barely made it through the round would have another chance to struggle on.
Maybe next round, they would stand a chance to get a theme they are good at.
But by immediately switching to top 10 entering finals, basically, it’s like knocking down all contestants with one stick.
This approach does increase the difficulty of the competition, but it also appears somewhat unfair.
Not only the audience, but even the competitors themselves were taken aback.
Both the members of Pingla Academy and Cindy Clarke are generally good sports.
However, even they displayed a hint of surprise on their faces upon hearing Grace Green’s announcement.
None of them, either Cindy Clarke or the person from the Pingla Academy, had known about this twist.
Hearing Grace Green’s announcement, everyone was shocked.
They hadn’t expected that this round would be the championship round.
The top 10 entering finals was indeed a rare sight.
“The rules for this championship round are different from the previous ones.” Grace Green stated, “For this round, we will implement a scoring system.”
“Each judge has 10 points to assign, with 10 being the perfect score.” Grace Green explained.
“In the end, we will determine the ranking of the championship round based on each contestant’s scores.” Grace explained.
“Next, we would like to invite our judges: Chef Michael Greene, Chef Rosaline Parker, Chef Charles Dean, Professor Wesley Gordon, and Professor Hunter Clarke.” Grace Green announced.
The five judges walked out together.
Grace Green then said, “Professor Wesley Gordon will explain the specific rules for this round.”
Grace Green nodded and then stepped off the stage.
The stage was given over to the five judges for explanation.
Wesley Gordon started, “Originally, this round was not meant to be the final.”
“According to the previous years’ competition rules, although the structure of each round might undergo some changes, we would never resort to such a radical method as immediate entry to finals,” Wesley said.
“However, this time, the Cooking Competition is linked with the International Culinary Competition.” Wesley announced, “The timetable for the International Culinary Competition was suddenly advanced.”
“If we continue with the normal promotion system of the Pingla Culinary Competition, our competition will still be ongoing when the International Culinary Competition begins, with no champion decided yet.” Wesley explained.
“However, at this International Culinary Competition, the Pingla Culinary Competition does have a perk.
That is, the champion of the Pingla Culinary Competition will earn the right to participate in the International Culinary Competition directly, without needing to compete in the auditions and preliminary competitions.” Wesley informed.
“But if our own competition hasn’t concluded and no champion is decided by the time the International Culinary Competition begins, we stand to lose this privilege.” Wesley stated.
“Moreover, it’s not just about the champion’s spot; we also need to give the contesting chefs adequate time to participate in the International Culinary Competition’s preliminary stage.
If the two sets of competitions take place simultaneously, it would not only distract the contestants but also greatly affect their performance in either competition.”
“The top 10 contestants who have advanced so far are all top young chefs at a national level; they’re an important force for us to achieve great results at the International Culinary Competition.”
“As such, the organizing committee has deliberated over this for a long time and concluded that it would be detrimental to their performance in the International Culinary Competition to let the Pingla Culinary Competition go on.
Thus the decision to wrap up the Pingla Culinary Competition ahead of time.”
“Of course, we’ve tried our best to safeguard the contestants’ interests.” Wesley explained, “Overly risky it may seem to decide winners in one round, this has its own problems.”
“For example, some contestants with great potential might unfortunately stumble upon a theme they’re not good at, leading to failing the competition which is just one among many issues.
We’ve taken all of these into consideration.” Wesley added.
“A seasoned chef should have experience in all types of cuisines.
However, experience doesn’t necessarily mean proficiency.
Speaking of the major cuisines in our country, each one is complex and mastering a single one is pretty challenging.”
“Expecting proficiency in every cuisine is clearly unrealistic.
Some of them might know how to cook a cuisine but they’re not perfect at it.
That’s what we meant.” Wesley elucidated.
“Considering all these factors, we’ve discussed the theme for this round for a long time to ensure maximum fairness.” Wesley stated.
“Today’s competition does not mandate any specific dishes.” Wesley announced.
“But we have mandated some ingredients.” Wesley explained, “Today, you have to cook the dishes based on the ingredients we provide.”
“Each contestant is to make one soup dish, one meat dish, one vegetarian dish, one Chinese dessert, and one Chinese sweet dessert.” Wesley laid out the rules, “A total of five dishes.”
“There’s no cuisine restriction, you can choose the cuisines you’re good at based on the ingredients.” Wesley instructed.
The audience and contestants both calculated; there were a total of five judges and five courses.
Wesley is proficient in Cantonese cuisine; Hunter Clarke excels at Chinese pastry, which naturally also includes Chinese desserts.
Being the head chef of Quire, Michael Greene focuses on Chinese cuisine.
Meanwhile, Rosaline Parker owns a French restaurant and also serves as its head chef.
If it were some previous contestants, they would probably interpret this challenge’s theme as being catered to the cooking styles that each of these five head chefs excels at.
Wesley specializes in Cantonese cuisine, so they would choose to cook a Cantonese dish.
Hunter Clarke is good at Chinese pastries, hence one of the challenges naturally corresponds to his specialty.
In that case, they would attempt the five dishes based on the cuisine types these panelists were responsible for.
Ordinary contestants might think like this.
But the contestants present at this moment thought otherwise.
“Each contestant is to prepare a total of five dishes.” Wesley clarified, “Given time restrictions, different dishes take different amounts of time.”
“Therefore, after each contestant finishes a dish, we will temporarily halt the competition to proceed with the judges’ evaluation phase.” Wesley explained.
“Each dish gets scored once, with a perfect score of 10 points.” Wesley continued.
“After five rounds, the total score will be calculated by adding up the points earned from all the dishes, which will then determine the placings.”
Be it the contestants or the audience, everyone now knew that the organizing committee had done their best to make the competition as fair as possible, seizing every possible opportunity.
A chef might not excel in every type of cuisine.
Chapter 872: Don’t Drop Her Snacks!
_1 But today’s competition includes all five categories, soup, meat dish, vegetarian dish, dim sum, and dessert.
The contestants can always choose one or more categories they are good at.
Even if the score of other dishes is slightly lower than others’, there are always some they are good at that can boost the score.
In this way, what’s actually being tested is overall ability.
So it’s not unfair to anyone.
...
“In order not to affect the contestants’ mindsets for subsequent competitions, although we will score after each dish, we will not tell the contestants.”
“We will write down the scores, seal them in a box,” Wesley Gordon said.
At this point, there were six staff members, each holding a box, which was placed in front of the judges’ table.
Clearly, these were prepared for the judges.
“As you can see, there is a box in front of our table with the name of the judge written on it.
After each round of competition, we will put the scored papers into the box.”
“The scoring process will be monitored by the cameras and the audience on site, so there will never be any cheating happening,” Wesley Gordon said.
“After all five dishes have been scored, we will take out the scores in front of the camera and all the audience present, and show them to the audience for confirmation.
Then we will finally determine the competition result.”
As they were listening to Wesley Gordon speaking, both the contestants and the audience had their eyes fixed on the judges’ table.
There are obviously only five judges on the scene.
But there are six spots and six boxes set up.
Could there be another judge?
At this time, Wesley Gordon said: “There is another change in this final.”
“The organizer of the International Culinary Competition has sent a representative to witness with us.
The International Culinary Competition has always been very interested in the Pingla Culinary Competition, and is also very interested in this winner,” said Wesley Gordon.
“In the past International Culinary Competitions, the head chefs of the restaurants under Pingla Academy and Pingla Group have signed up and achieved excellent results.
Contestants from the Pingla system have always played a very important role in the International Culinary Competition,” Wesley Gordon boasted proudly.
“So, this time, the organizer of the International Culinary Competition is very focused on the outcome of the Pingla Culinary Competition,” Wesley Gordon said.
“Therefore, a representative was sent specially from the organizer of the International Culinary Competition,” Wesley Gordon said.
The audience didn’t have high hopes for the representative, but they were quite curious.
Mainly, they felt that the organizers of the International Culinary Competition actually paid so much attention to Pingla!
They even sent a representative for Pingla’s competition.
Since this representative is specially appointed by the organizer of the International Culinary Competition, they should have some skills.
However, Wesley Gordon and others knew that the representative was actually not that skilled.
But since the International Culinary Competition had sent a representative, they should give them some face.
The organizer of the International Culinary Competition proposed to have this representative as a judge for the final.
Billy Houston even specially gathered Wesley Gordon and the other four.
They discussed it and finally thought that, with the five of them as the judges, even if the representative was not very skilled, it wouldn’t have much of an impact.
Even if he couldn’t say professional things like they could, say where exactly was good and why.
But since he happened to be in this line of work, he must have tasted diverse cuisine.
He must have sampled dishes from celebrity chefs too.
Even if he couldn’t say something very professional, he could at least discern whether it was delicious or not.
So after everyone discussed it, they agreed.
“So, the sixth judge is a representative from the International Culinary Competition,” said Wesley Gordon.
“Let’s welcome Miss Jenny Kirk!” Wesley Gordon said loudly.
The audience on the stage symbolically gave a polite round of applause.
After all, they didn’t know who Jenny Kirk was.
A representative from the International Culinary Competition?
Since it’s not a public figure, of course they didn’t know.
Only the Zhekova family had serious expressions on their faces.
Adrian Zhekova’s face darkened.
What’s going on!
Of course, the organizers of the Pingla competition would not tell Adrian Zhekova everything.
The organizers had considerable autonomy.
The organizers probably felt that adding a representative sent by the organizers was not a big deal, so they didn’t tell Adrian Zhekova.
Who knew that the representative who came had something to do with Adrian Zhekova?
Cindy Clarke raised her eyebrows even higher.
Unbelievably, this world truly is small after all.
“Excuse me, excuse me.” Peggy Lewis didn’t rush to take a seat after separating from Cindy Clarke.
After all, there was still quite some time before the competition starts.
Before the start of the competition, there would usually be a lot of introductions.
Peggy Lewis was in no rush.
Lost in the convenience store outside, she bought some snacks.
Although the Finley kid probably wouldn’t lack snacks with the Zhekova family, and what the Zhekova family gives to Finley is what they give,
As his godmother, Peggy Lewis certainly needed to show her own intentions.
She mustn’t skimp on what she gives to Finley.
Plus, having not seen each other for a long time, Peggy Lewis bought six large bags of snacks.
She carried three large bags in her left hand and three in her right hand.
Finley certainly wouldn’t be able to eat all of these while watching the competition, but she could take them home and eat them slowly.
Just carrying so many bags, she certainly wasn’t looking her best.
Even looked a bit embarrassed.
“Sorry, sorry!” Peggy Lewis quickly said.
Finally, she made it to her spot and was about to sit down.
Who knew that when she turned around, the three large bags of snacks in her left hand hit the person next to her.
Lyke Zhekova: “!..”
Is this woman here to watch the show?
Three big bags of snacks were smooshed into Lyke Zhekova’s face, making him look rather embarrassing.
Can this woman even finish so many snacks?
Lyke Zhekova silently wondered.
“I’m sorry, I’m really sorry.” Peggy Lewis hurriedly apologized to Lyke Zhekova.
Feeling really bad about it, Peggy Lewis was extremely apologetic, and there was even a hint of nervousness due to her guilt.
But the more guilt she felt and the more anxious she became, the more trouble she seemed to stir up.
Peggy Lewis still held a big bag in her hands.
With one turn of her body, the bag swooped onto Lyke Zhekova’s face again with more force.
Lyke Zhekova: “…”
Was he having a bad day or what?
Enough is enough!
Lyke Zhekova was upset and just wanted to take down the three bags of snacks from Peggy Lewis’s hand.
So she didn’t have to keep hitting him in the face.
Who knew that Peggy Lewis felt his strength.
She thought he was angry and was going to throw her snacks to the side.
That shouldn’t happen.
Peggy Lewis thought even if she was at fault, he had a right to be upset.
But that didn’t mean he could throw her snacks!
So, Peggy Lewis held onto them even tighter.
Lyke Zhekova: “!..”
Chapter 873: Being Single is Pleasurable for a Moment, Always Being Single is Always Pleasurable _1 “What’s going on?
He simply wanted to help her grab a snack, why didn’t she let go?
Not to mention, this lady was incredibly strong!
“Let me go.” Lyke Zhekova, face still surrounded by snack packets, spoke through gritted teeth.
Peggy Lewis was stunned for a moment.
His voice sounded nice.
Lyke Zhekova’s face was blocked, so she couldn’t see him.
...
“No, I can’t let go!” Peggy Lewis immediately shook her head.
When Peggy walked in, she noticed Adrian Zhekova sitting a few seats away.
There were three empty seats next to him.
The elders in the Zhekova family and the little one were nowhere to be found; they must have gone somewhere.
Next to Adrian was Maverick Zhekova and Victoria Wheeler.
Peggy didn’t recognize anyone else that was sitting with Maverick Zhekova and Victoria Wheeler.
Things were a bit chaotic at the moment, so Peggy didn’t pay much attention.
She naturally didn’t notice the similarity on their faces.
She did notice Adrian though, but she had no real relationship with him.
She had no time for pleasantries now.
After all, the Competition on the stage had already begun, she didn’t want to be a distraction.
Lyke Zhekova: “…”
“I just want to remove these bags from me!” Lyke ground out his words, “Or are you going to leave them hanging on my face?”
“…” Peggy paused, then said, “You’re not going to throw away my snacks, are you?”
Lyke Zhekova: “…”
Is this woman nuts?
“Why would I throw away your snacks!”
Lyke Wu exclaimed, “Did I say I had a grudge against you?
You keep hanging this bag on my face?”
“Do you want me to watch the match or not!” he argued.
Peggy Lewis: “…”
“I’m so sorry, I’m really sorry.” Peggy hastily spoke up, letting go of him.
With that, Lyke finally put the snacks by his feet.
Now, Peggy had a clear view of Lyke’s face.
Who would have thought, men with good voices looking very attractive!
He looked older than Adrian, though.
But there was an undeniable charm of a mature man.
Peggy thought, generally, people with good voices usually let her down in the looks department.
It’s not necessarily that they’re ugly.
It’s just that compared to their voices, they likely could look better.
The better the voice, the higher the expectations for their face become.
People’s minds unconsciously fill in a handsome face to accompany the voice.
So when the owner of the voice reveals their true appearance, disappointment is inevitable if it doesn’t match up to their expectations.
When Peggy first heard Lyke’s voice, she didn’t have time to imagine what he looked like.
Despite this, the appearance of Lyke Zhekova in front of her eyes, still amazed her.
“I’m really …
very sorry.” In the face of attractive people, Peggy’s tolerance was significantly higher.
Especially since she felt really sorry for Lyke.
Lyke Zhekova waved his hand, exhausted, hoping this woman would keep her distance.
The last thing he wanted was for her to sit next to him.
Little did he know, Peggy took a seat next to him just as he thought this.
Lyke Zhekova: “…”
He definitely should not have stayed in today.
“Hmm?” Peggy sat down and looked at the expression on Cindy’s face.
Her attention was diverted from Lyke Zhekova.
While Peggy liked to appreciate attractive people.
And Lyke Zhekova was definitely a top-tier beauty.
But she wasn’t boy-crazy.
Just appreciation, she wouldn’t fantasise about a good-looking person like some naive little girl.
Or blush and lose control over herself because a guy was good-looking.
As for attractive people, Peggy appreciated them and moved on.
There are many more good-looking celebrities to look at.
She wouldn’t act silly just for a handsome guy.
Also, Peggy believed that as a new-age career woman, she had a fair degree of independence and immunity towards men.
The older she got, the more independent she became, the less likely she was to become infatuated with fleeting beauty.
Men are not as reliable as her, herself.
Being single is awesome, stay single, stay awesome.
Love and marriage, more headaches are on the way.
Nothing beats the joy of being single.
She could do whatever she wanted, whenever she wanted, she didn’t have to accommodate anyone.
Work hard to earn money, take care of oneself.
If you can afford some things, then afford them.
Other things she wanted, could wait on her wish list.
After a while, after a few years, she will definitely be satisfied.
This kind of self-satisfaction, nobody else could give it to her.
However, seeing the strange expression on Cindy’s face diverted Peggy’s attention away from the situation at hand.
“Godmother!” Suddenly, a crisp voice sounded.”
Chapter 874: I Really Can’t Let Her Go!_1 Peggy Lewis turned her head and saw the little boy walking over with Old Master and Old Madam.
Peggy quickly made room for the two elders and greeted them, “Old Master, Madam.”
Lyke Zhekova raised an eyebrow and turned to look at her.
Did she know the elders too?
Was the little one calling her “Godmother” earlier?
“Godmother!” The little boy rushed into Peggy’s arms.
He hadn’t seen his godmother in a long time.
The elders greeted Peggy Lewis with a smile.
...
The little one asked the elders, “Great Grandfather, Great Grandmother, can I sit with godmother for a while?”
The seat next to Peggy was empty, no one had taken it yet.
Old Madam said, “Sure, you haven’t seen your godmother in a long time either.”
The young boy nodded happily and sat obediently next to Peggy.
The elders then returned to their own seats.
“Hello, Fourth Grandfather!” Seeing that Lyke was sitting next to Peggy, the little boy t greeted him.
Peggy Lewis was silent, thinking, “What the hell!”
“He is…
your Fourth Grandfather?” Peggy Lewis was taking aback.
The kid responded, “Yes, he is!
But godmother, don’t let Fourth Grandfather’s youthful looks fool you.
He’s of high social status and older than my father.”
Lyke: “…”
That didn’t sound complimentary at all.
“But, Fourth Grandfather still doesn’t have a girlfriend,” the little boy added.
Lyke: “…”
They could skip that part!
Although, Peggy’s attention wasn’t on Lyke’s rank, age, or bachelorhood.
Although she was stunned by Lyke’s rank.
What surprised her most was his youthful appearance for that rank.
He didn’t look like the kid’s Fourth Grandfather at all.
After all, Maverick Zhekova and Jayden Zhekova were at the scene for comparison.
Although neither of them looked old, signs of age were discernible despite their youthful appearances.
In comparison, Lyke appeared around the same age as Adrian Zhekova, which made him seem younger than Maverick Zhekova and Jayden Zhekova.
However, the most shocking thing for Peggy Lewis was that she was the kid’s godmother.
And Lyke Zhekova was his Fourth Grandfather.
So, didn’t that make Lyke Lewis almost like her godfather?
Peggy turned stiffly, glanced at Lyke’s face and twitched her lips.
Lyke: “…”
What was she implying?
Was she disgusted by his age?
Was she put off by the fact he was still single at his age?
However, Peggy was just entertaining the thought.
Even if she really called Lyke her godfather, Lyke would probably feel like she was taking advantage of him.
So, Peggy put that thought aside.
She put the child on her lap.
She then asked, “Where did you go?”
The boy answered, “Great Grandfather and Great Grandmother just took me to the restroom.”
“I bought some snacks for you.” Peggy Lewis put two bags of snacks next to the boy, “You can eat while watching.”
The boy took out a box of chocolate from the bag and ate one after tearing open the wrapper.
Peggy asked, “Little one, does Cindy know the judge named Jenny Kirk on stage?”
She noticed Cindy’s expression when Jenny Kirk appeared, but she couldn’t find anyone who knew what was happening.
She wasn’t familiar with the Zhekova family.
She barely knew Adrian Zhekova, Maverick Zhekova, and Victoria Wheeler.
However, Jayden Zhekova and his family were in between, along with Lyke Zhekova.
How could she confront them?
It wouldn’t be appropriate to bypass so many people just to ask, right?
Now that the little boy was here as well, Peggy trusted in his ability to provide updated information.
When she and Cindy tried to hide Cindy’s family background, they didn’t count on the little boy knowing about it beforehand.
Let alone Jenny Kirk’s situation, the kid would probably know about it.
Sure enough, as soon as Jenny Kirk appeared, the boy wore an “I know” expression on his face.
He leaned in conspiratorially close to Peggy.
Peggy naturally leaned over so their heads were close together.
The boy whispered to her, “Jenny Kirk is a woman that likes my daddy.
I don’t know how she became a judge.”
Earlier, when the boy was not around, he did not know that Jenny Kirk was a representative sent by the International Culinary Competition.
Jenny Kirk had tried to connect with Adrian Zhekova.
After that, Adrian and Cindy did not discuss the topic at home anymore.
The couple did not take Jenny Kirk seriously, and they certainly wouldn’t waste their private time on her.
Therefore, the boy didn’t know about Jenny Kirk as there was no place to eavesdrop.
However, the boy’s words did explain the relationship between Jenny Kirk, Adrian Zhekova, and Cindy Clarke.
Peggy immediately asked, “She still likes him?
Your parents are already married, and they have you.
Doesn’t she have any shame?”
“She even went to Great Grandfather and Great Grandmother’s during the New Year celebration without an invitation.
But she wasn’t allowed to enter, so she walked away dejectedly!”
Peggy didn’t ask whether Jenny knew about Adrian and Cindy’s marriage.
She must have known.
She wasn’t living somewhere remote without internet access.
As long as she surfed the internet, how could she not know about it?
Knew about it, still came after him, she was definitely shameless.
Although Peggy arrived a bit late, she heard Wesley Gordon’s introduction to Jenny Kirk as she was looking for her seat.
“This woman is utterly shameless!” Peggy Lewis exclaimed.
The little boy also agreed.
Lyke Zhekova wondered if it was appropriate for Peggy to discuss these things with the child.
“Let me tell you, this woman is a representative of the organizers of the International Culinary competition, acting as a judge.
She might give Cindy a hard time during the scoring,” Peggy Lewis said, “I really can’t trust her!”
“I don’t trust her either!” The little boy clenched his little fists and said.
Even though he trusts Adrian to never betray Cindy, it’s annoying to have a woman cling around.
Not to mention, all men are untrustworthy.
“Ahem!” Lyke Zhekova couldn’t tolerate it anymore and coughed, “Excuse me…”
It occurred to him that he didn’t know the name of the little boy’s godmother.
Peggy was thinking about how to deal with Jenny Kirk.
She was caught off-guard by Lyke’s question.
She replied without looking at him, “Peggy Lewis.”
Then, she redirected her attention back to the boy, warning, “I have a feeling she might target you since she’s getting nowhere with your dad.”
“Be careful, don’t let her get you,” Peggy warned.
Chapter 875: Should I also call you Uncle?_1 “Ahem!” Lyke Zhekova couldn’t help but caution, “Speaking to Morgan this way isn’t right, you know?”
“How old is Morgan?” Lyke Zhekova asked.
“What, are you looking down on Morgan?” Peggy Lewis quickly took on the role of the protective mother hen and glared at Lyke Zhekova.
Lyke Zhekova: “…..”
When did he ever say he looked down on Morgan?
This woman is really good at blaming him for everything!
“That’s not what I meant.” Lyke Zhekova quickly clarified.
Peggy Lewis shook her head and solemnly told Lyke Zhekova, “This is why I say, you men just don’t understand certain two-faced women.”
“Sigh!” Peggy sighed.
“It’s so hard to find a man who can see through a fake nowadays.”
As she was saying this, Peggy Lewis looked at Lyke Zhekova and shook her head again.
...
Lyke Zhekova: “…..”
This woman, is there a need to be this disappointed in him?
He didn’t say anything yet!
“I know that Jenny Kirk is no good,” Lyke Zhekova said.
“You don’t need a radar for fakeness to see that.
Could a good person continue to cling onto someone else’s spouse?”
“Of course, this doesn’t mean that I lack the ability to see through lies.
I have good judgement.” Lyke Zhekova justified himself.
“But I think we shouldn’t let adult matters affect Morgan.” Lyke Zhekova spoke like this because he saw Peggy, who is Morgan’s godmother.
Lyke Zhekova and Aria Evans were just one seat apart.
In between them was Samson Zhekova.
Even though Lyke Zhekova was of a higher hierarchy, he actually had more common topics with Samson Zhekova.
Compared to Jayden Zhekova and Maverick Zhekova, there was a significant age difference.
So, Samson Zhekova and Lyke Zhekova sat together.
Next to Aria Evans was Jayden Zhekova, chatting with Maverick Zhekova.
But primarily, Victoria Wheeler wanted to be next to the Old Madam.
At this moment, hearing the words of Lyke Zhekova, Aria Evans nudged Samson Zhekova and whispered to him, “Look, your Fourth Uncle is a negative example.
You must never speak like him.”
Or else you’ll end up not finding a girlfriend.
Samson Zhekova:”…..”
“Morgan is so clever.
He understands everything adults say.” Peggy Lewis said, “Since that’s the case, we can’t treat him differently.”
“Moreover, since you know that Jenny is no good, you should keep Morgan away from her even more.” Peggy Lewis said.
“If because Morgan is too young, we don’t want him to know too much about things like this and therefore hide it from him.
What if Jenny really tries to take advantage of Morgan and he ends up trusting Jenny?
What do we do then?” Peggy Lewis asked.
“At that time, the ones to suffer will be Morgan and our little Cindy.” As for Adrian Zhekova?
He’s a man, the worst he can suffer from is losing hisvirginity.
“If it only was deceiving Morgan, it can be overlooked.
Since she wants to deceive, she must give something in order to deceive.” Peggy Lewis said, “But that doesn’t mean that Morgan won’t be hurt in the process.”
“Our Morgan is intelligent, he definitely won’t be deceived by her.” Peggy Lewis stated, “But what if she finds out that she can’t deceive Morgan and becomes furious and wants to harm him?”
“In a word, what if!,” Peggy Lewis timidly glanced at Adrian Zhekova before continuing, “What if Adrian Zhekova is deceived?
What if Jenny becomes Morgan’s stepmother?”
Lyke Zhekova:”…..”
I have to say, your imagination is really wild.
You’re actually brave enough to say that out loud!
Lyke Zhekova ended up admiring Peggy Lewis’s courage.
Adrian Zhekova, however, somehow managed to overhear Peggy Lewis’s words from afar.
He immediately looked over.
Peggy Lewis:”…..”
Peggy Lewis was still very scared of Adrian Zhekova.
Immediately, she became guilty and didn’t dare to look over.
Moreover, she hurriedly added, “Of course, I know that Adrian Zhekova definitely won’t be interested in Jenny Kirk.”
“Forget about Jenny Kirk, he won’t be interested in any other woman.
He only has our Cindy in his heart.” Peggy Lewis stated.
Lyke Zhekova:”…..”
You changed your words so quickly!
“Anyway, my point is to let Morgan know so that he won’t be fooled by that woman.” said Peggy Lewis.
Morgan also came over, resting his arm on Peggy Lewis’s leg and said to Lyke Zhekova, “Yeah, yeah, Fourth Grandfather, you can’t discriminate against me just because I’m young.”
Lyke Zhekova:”…..”
Morgan’s words reminded Peggy of something.
Peggy Lewis then looked at Lyke Zhekova with an exasperated expression, “Well…
should I call you uncle too?”
Lyke Zhekova:”…..”
This was the first time he regretted his seniority!
Originally, since he was about the same age as Adrian Zhekova and the others but he was of a higher generation, Lyke Zhekova always felt like he was at an advantage.
However, after Peggy Lewis’s comment, he felt somewhat uncomfortable.
“Let’s listen to what they’re saying on stage.” Lyke Zhekova felt a twitch in the corner of his eye, and spoke.
At this point, they could hear Jenny Kirk’s voice from the stage, “Hello, everyone.
I’m Jenny Kirk.”
“I’m honored to be the representative of the host of the International Culinary Competition in the Hearth Nation and to be invited by the Pingla Culinary Competition to be one of the judges of the final round.”
The six judges maintained smiles on their faces without saying anything.
But in actuality, they were all sneering internally.
They all knew she had asked to be a judge herself.
And even brought up being a representative of the host of the International Culinary Competition.
This indicated to everyone that the hosts of the International Culinary Competition gave high regard to the Pingla Culinary Competition and really wanted to know the standards of the competition’s contestants.
They were especially interested in the skills of the champion of this Pingla Culinary Competition.
And since the final round is among the top ten participants.
The top ten participants were all elite chefs already.
So, they could also take this opportunity to understand their overall skill level.
Once she said all these, how could Billy Houston and the other judges reject her?
However, what Billy Houston and the other judges didn’t know was,
that the whole thing wasn’t at all initiated by the host of the International Culinary Competition.
Instead, it was Jenny Kirk pulling strings from both sides.
Jenny Kirk first told the hosts of the International Culinary Competition that the Hearth Nation was hosting the Pingla Culinary Competition.
Over the years, most contestants of the International Culinary Competition from the Hearth Nation had come from the Pingla Group.
So, they could use this opportunity to check out the level of this year’s Hearth Nation’s contestants.
Surely, among the top ten of the Pingla Culinary Competition, many contestants would participate in the International Culinary Competition.
Not to mention, Pingla even had a direct entry for the champion of the current Pingla Culinary Competition.
So, they had to see what the champion of the Pingla Culinary Competition was like.
After Jenny Kirk said all that, the hosts of the International Culinary Competition felt it made sense,
So they agreed.
Then, Jenny Kirk, with almost the same words except changing it to that the International Culinary Competition hosts had solicited the service,
Chapter 876: Doesn’t Your Dad Know?
_1 Looking to examine the skillset of the chefs in the Pingla Culinary Competition.
For that reason, Billy Houston could not possibly have refused it.
Refusal would have made him appear insecure, as if Hearth Nation’s chefs weren’t up to par.
So, after some discussion, they finally agreed to it.
It was not Jenny Kirk they had actively invited.
...
But Jenny Kirk sure knew how to blow her own horn.
“Even though I’m not a chef, I am still involved in the culinary industry.
I’m not only representing the organizers of the International Culinary Competition, but I am also a member of the International Chefs Association.
Usually, I am learning from many masters.”
“Such as, Mr.
Austin Bradley, George Bronson, Joe Jose, Alfonso Simone.”
Chefs, unlike celebrities, are not widely known for their names.
But top-level famous chefs like these are familiar to everyone.
To the extent that even regular netizens are aware of them, it is clear they are famous as chefs.
As she says this, sure enough, a strong exclamation is heard from the audience.
They couldn’t help but look forward to Jenny Kirk being a judge.
“Though I am not a chef, I have learned and tasted their signature dishes and listened to their detailed explanations.
I have watched them mentor students, and I have learned a lot from it.”
“However, it is only theoretical knowledge,” Jenny Kirk adds.
By saying this, she is making it known to the audience that she isn’t completely ignorant about the subject.
Although she is not a chef, being a judge is enough.
She is not wholly unqualified – she should not be underestimated as somebody merely poking her nose in.
True enough, Jenny Kirk’s words were effective.
The attitude of the audience towards her was no longer dismissive and careless as before.
“Of course, I am far behind the five judges,” Jenny Kirk continues, “I am here to learn today, so I hope I will do everything correctly.
Please bear with me if there are any mistakes.”
“Heh,” Peggy Lewis snorts sarcastically, “She ‘hopes’ she won’t make any mistakes.
But what if she does?
She’s the one who’s scoring the contestants.
If she messes up the scoring, it’s the contestants who will suffer.”
“She knows she’s not professional yet she’s still here.
As if the contestants owe her anything!” Peggy Lewis sneers.
She simply didn’t like Jenny Kirk’s look from the start.
For no particular reason.
If a reason must be stated, it’s probably a woman’s intuition.
Peggy Lewis just didn’t hit it off with Jenny Kirk.
Looking at Jenny Kirk’s face and manner, she felt that the woman’s aura was off.
After learning from the little guy about Jenny Kirk’s intentions towards Adrian Zhekova, Peggy Lewis disliked her even more.
Lyke Zhekova’s lips curled up in amusement, finding Peggy Lewis quite interesting.
Being the little guy’s godmother, she must have a close relationship with Cindy Clarke.
Just because Jenny Kirk has designs on Adrian Zhekova, she became this agitated.
Unexpectedly, Peggy Lewis was quite righteous.
“Being a judge, doesn’t your father know about it?” Peggy Lewis questions the little guy.
Jenny Kirk being a judge is very disadvantageous for Cindy Clarke.
Before the little guy could speak, Lyke Zhekova says, “Adrian doesn’t know about it.
Not just him, none of us knew.”
“There is autonomy in the organizing committee of the Pingla Culinary Competition.
They won’t report everything.
They can decide on their own about the event format, content changes,” Lyke Zhekova explains.
After all, there are way too many companies under the flag of Pingla.
Other than significant matters, who would approach Adrian Zhekova to decide about every little thing each day?
Chapter 877: Don’t Mind Making The Worst Assumptions_1 What’s the point of having a person in charge of a company, if it’s like this?
Billy Houston and the others didn’t know that Jenny Kirk knew Adrian Zhekova, let alone what her intentions were towards him.
They just thought she was acting as an ordinary representative.
Originally, there was no need to report this to Adrian Zhekova.
However, being unaware of the situation with Jenny created this current predicament.
Now, to have Jenny Kirk removed was clearly unrealistic.
There are so many audience members present, and on live broadcast, it’s impossible to play it off as a joke.
...
Peggy Lewis took a deep breath and said, “Let’s just hope she won’t find any faults in Cindy.”
However, although Peggy Lewis said this, she didn’t hold any such hope.
If Jenny Kirk really had a conscience or any shame, she wouldn’t be pestering Adrian Zhekova or coming to be a judge.
She originally didn’t tell Cindy to prevent her from worrying.
But now, Jenny Kirk couldn’t help but blurt out: “I now have reason to suspect that Jenny Kirk came to be a judge specifically because of Cindy.”
Peggy Lewis was certain that Jenny Kirk would score Cindy low.
Whether or not she was using her judge position to make Cindy yield to her was uncertain.
It’s hard to say whether she took this opportunity to boss Cindy around.
However, Peggy Lewis didn’t mind attributing the worst intentions to Jenny Kirk.
After all, Jenny Kirk was not a good person.
“Very well, welcome Miss Kirk,” Grace Green stepped back onto the stage to say.
“Now, judges, please take your seats,” Grace Green said.
The six judges returned to their seats.
Jenny Kirk’s gaze remained on Cindy Clarke.
Upon learning that Adrian Zhekova had married Cindy Clarke, Jenny Kirk thoroughly investigated Cindy.
She knew Cindy was a food blogger and that she had entered the Cooking Competition.
It was rumored that she was a hot contender for the title.
The audience was eagerly looking forward to her participation in the International Culinary Competition.
Jenny Kirk hadn’t expected that Adrian Zhekova’s choice of a spouse was someone who wasn’t worthy of centre stage.
Did she think she could gain fame through the competition?
That’s why she absolutely had to be a judge.
She wanted to see just how competent Cindy Clarke was.
This time, Wesley Gordon, who had always led the competition, unusually, didn’t speak from the judge’s bench.
He handed over all leading tasks to Grace Green.
“Now, we proceed to the first round of the competition, soup cuisine,” Grace Green announced, “Soup can also be considered as the appetizer of Chinese meals.
Whether in a restaurant or at home, a meal is never complete without soup.”
“I’m not sure about other things, but starting a meal with soup lubricates the intestines and is good for the stomach,” Grace Green said, “As the common saying goes, drink soup before a meal.
This has been a long-standing habit of ours.”
“So now, contestants please open the top drawer to your right,” Grace Green instructed.
At Grace’s command, Cindy and the other competitors opened the drawers.
Inside were tomatoes, onions, potatoes, garlic, beef, lamb, and freshly processed fish meat with labels, none of it frozen.
The fish included crucian carp, bass, basa, and dory.
“As usual, other seasoning ingredients are in the food storage room.
You can select freely,” Grace Green continued.
“However, unlike previous competitions, competitors will not be limited to one entry into the food storage room,” Grace Green informed them.
“This time is different, you can enter an unlimited number of times,” she declared.
“No matter when or how many times, you can.”
“The first round, Soup Competition, will last for 1 hour,” Grace Green announced.
“Next, we will countdown from 10,” Grace Green said, “10, 9, 8, 7, 6, 5, 4, 3, 2, 1.
Let the competition begin!”
While Grace Green was speaking, Cindy also took the opportunity to think about the soup she would make.
Now, she already had a rough idea in her mind.
When the start signal sounded, Cindy didn’t rush into the food storage room.
Instead, she first prepared the ingredients she already had.
After all, as Grace Green said, today’s competition doesn’t limit the number of times they can enter the food storage room.
There was no need to rush.
Not only did Cindy not go, but the other contestants also stayed put.
Everyone thought the same: there was no need to rush to the food storage room at the start.
In their hurry, they might forget something.
Runs back and forth also took time.
With only one hour, making a bone broth was not feasible.
Time was insufficient, the taste and effect of the stew would be somewhat lacking.
Cindy thought about it clearly.
Although it’s great to do well in all five dishes, to excel in all of them was a tough ask.
Others might be able to do it, but Cindy Clarke felt that she was not capable of surprising everyone with every dish and being the top in all of them.
In past competitions, they only prepared one dish per week.
During this week, and even during the competition, they only needed to think about this one dish.
But today was different.
Although there was no limit on the type of cuisine.
They limited the ingredients.
And they only found out about the five-dish requirement on the competition day, without any prior knowledge.
It’s important to know that a new dish in a restaurant requires the head chef and many others to experiment repeatedly, improve continuously, before finally being launched.
One week was actually very little, not enough at all.
It’s just because they were in a competition, not launching a new dish, that the requirements were not that high.
But to expect someone to think of suitable and innovative dishes on the spot was a lot to ask.
It might barely be possible for one dish, but certainly not for five.
At least Cindy knew she couldn’t.
The competition pressure was high and the time was limited.
They could only afford two or three minutes to think.
These two or three minutes had to be all effective time.
Because the noise from the audience and the surrounding environment could easily cause distractions.
Moreover, the pressure on the spot was too high.
Under these circumstances, it was very difficult to focus on one thing.
So while Wesley Gordon and Grace Green were speaking, Cindy seized the opportunity to think quickly.
Among the things the two of them said, there would be some important information.
Cindy couldn’t afford to miss it, so she had to divert her attention to listening from time to time.
This naturally took up quite a lot of time.
Cindy used this time to decide that out of these five dishes today, she didn’t need to standout in all of them.
As long as she ensured at least two of them stood out, it would suffice.
For the remaining three dishes, she should ensure there are no mistakes and strive to be more outstanding.
She should mainly concentrate on those two dishes.
She was able to do so at this level.
The first dish was soup, and as an appetizer before the meal, it played the role of lubricating the intestines.
It also couldn’t be so filling that one would not have an appetite for the following dishes.
Thus, not only was stewing soup for a long time removed as an option, but also soups with a large variety of ingredients should be excluded.
Chapter 878: This Violent Temper_1 For a starter soup, Cindy Clarke thinks it’s better to keep it simple and pure.
With this thought in mind, Cindy chose tomatoes and potatoes.
Cindy picked some seasonings from the food storage room and brought out a food processor.
She immediately ground the tomatoes into tomato juice with the food processor.
Then she started simmering the tomato juice in a pot.
She added salt and sugar for seasoning.
After steaming the potato slices in the pot, she used the food processor to mash them into mashed potatoes.
...
However, the mashed potatoes were still not smooth enough.
Cindy added milk to the mashed potatoes.
The mashed potatoes became thinner and lighter in color.
Cindy added some salt, freshly ground black pepper, and chopped parsley to the mixture.
She continued this process until the mashed potatoes took on the velvety smoothness of light cream.
She then piped the mashed potatoes into a pastry bag.
Cindy did not add water to the tomato soup she was simmering.
As a result, the consistency of the tomato juice became thicker and its aroma stronger.
When Cindy served up the tomato soup, it had a texture somewhat like corn juice, slightly thick.
The judge’s seating is actually located below the stage, directly facing the contestants’ cooking stations on stage.
This arrangement allows a clear view of the contestants’ cooking process without obstructing the audience in the back.
“It seems like Yannick O’Brian and Cindy Clarke have both used tomatoes and potatoes,” said Wesley Gordon, “but their methods are different.”
“I think I know why they chose tomatoes,” added Michael Greene.
“They probably used tomatoes to stimulate the appetite, so that the diners don’t lose their appetite after drinking the soup starter and can still enjoy the main course.”
“That’s probably what the other contestants intended as well,” added Hunter Clarke.
“Cindy Clarke and Yannick O’Brian used the acidity of tomatoes to whet the appetite, while Parker Honi chose hawthorn, and Aiden Huxley made a sour and spicy soup.”
“However, he might have improved the recipe, and I’m curious about what it tastes like.”
“I see Jasmine Hudson is choosing to use preserved plums, which Cindy Clarke has previously used to cut through the richness.
I’m not sure how Jasmine Hudson plans to use it in the soup.”
As the judges commented back and forth, Jenny Kirk had been silent the entire time.
Everyone knows she’s not a professional chef and therefore, couldn’t contribute much to the discussion.
However, she had just claimed that she was personally invited by the Pingla Competition, giving the impression that they were begging her to join.
If she were competent enough, it wouldn’t matter if she wanted to brag about herself.
But she was not a professional chef and couldn’t contribute to the discussion now.
It’s implausible for her to make meaningful comments during the judging stage later.
What’s worse would be if she started spouting nonsense without understanding what she’s talking about, thus lowering the standard of their competition.
Until now, the competition has received very good public opinions.
If it were to stumble in the end due to Jenny Kirk, it wouldn’t be good.
Jenny Kirk herself lacked the ability, yet she kept wanting to boast.
By then, if she were to perform poorly, it should not be the competition that has to take the blame.
So, it’s better to reveal Jenny Kirk’s inadequacies now and give the spectators some mental preparation.
She’d better not push the blame onto them.
With this thought in mind, Michael Greene asked Jenny Kirk with a smiling face that seemed friendly, “Miss Kirk, what’s your opinion on the contestants’ choice of ingredients?”
“I can’t tell right now,” Jenny Kirk replied, not looking the least bit guilty, “it’s not good to jump to conclusions too early.
It’s better to wait until the contestants serve the completed dishes.”
Jenny Kirk’s words caused the faces of Michael Greene and the other judges to darken instantly.
Was she implying that they were wrong?
They had just been discussing the choices of ingredients made by the contestants.
They hadn’t seen the finished dish, but they were commenting on the chosen ingredients.
What Jenny Kirk meant was that their discussions were pointless?
Wesley Gordon handled it fine.
But Rosaline Parker’s fiery temperament made her snort dismissively twice.
Since Jenny Kirk had been trying to step on them from the start, claiming to have been invited only after being personally approached by the Pingla Competition host.
And now she was trampling on them again.
But Rosaline Parker was not someone to be pushed around and let Jenny Kirk babble nonsense.
Rosaline Parker said: “I didn’t expect Miss Kirk to be so cautious.
Speaking of which, the audience doesn’t know much about Miss Kirk.”
“As a representative of the International Culinary Competition, Miss Kirk contacted our hosts as soon as she arrived in Hearth Nation, expressing the International Culinary Competition’s curiosity about the contestants in the Pingla Culinary Competition.”
“Especially after learning that the Pingla Culinary Competition had already decided on the top ten contestants and is now staging the final competition.
The International Culinary Competition was eager to see the level of this year’s championship contestant, as well as the level of the top ten contestants.”
“After all, each International Culinary Competition has quite a number of contestants from Pingla.”
“Therefore, in response to the International Culinary Competition’s request, they hoped that we could agree to have Miss Kirk as the sixth judge in the final.”
At Rosaline Parker’s comments, Wesley Gordon and others laughed.
Rosaline Parker still had the same fiery temper.
She would not tolerate any wrongs.
Anyone who dared use her to boost themselves would not be spared; she would fight back immediately and never let it slide.
The audience took note of Rosaline Parker’s words.
Someone asked in confusion: “Didn’t Jenny Kirk just say that she was invited by the Pingla Competition?”
“Yes, I remember that.
But according to what Rosaline Parker is saying, it seems the International Culinary Competition pushed Jenny Kirk on them.”
“Pingla sends many contestants to the International Culinary Competition.
If the International Culinary Competition insisted on placing someone, Pingla couldn’t refuse, right?
After all, adding one more judge isn’t too difficult.
Refusing the International Culinary Competition and causing a strained relationship wouldn’t be good for Pingla contestants taking part in future International Culinary Competitions.”
“Pingla has to think of the contestants, so they had to agree.”
“Does the International Culinary Competition still talk about relationships?”
“Huh!
Do you think foreigners are so noble?
They’re actually much more despicable.”
“Over the years, Chinese people overseas have always faced discrimination, and it’s not infrequent.
Not to mention other things, just take the International Culinary Competition; there have been many incidents of discrimination against our contestants in the past.”
“There have been cases of foreign contestants with the same ability as ours being given higher scores by the judges.”
“If it weren’t for Pingla being strong and having a say in the International Chefs Association, our contestants would have it much harder.
Of course, there are still good things.
But in many ways, don’t think too highly of them.
Deep down, they still hold discriminatory attitudes.”
Chapter 879: Ordinary_1 “My God, are they this despicable?” An audience member exclaimed in surprise.
Someone chuckled, “You haven’t paid attention to these international events before, have you?”
“Not really.
I just started watching this year.” The person replied, “This year’s topic is quite riveting, so I started paying attention.”
“This year, you might as well pay attention to the International Culinary Competition to see if what I’m saying is true.”
Another person chimed in, “I’ve never watched before either, but I will this year.
Even though I haven’t watched before, I believe what you’re saying.
The Olympics, eSports competitions, various international events – there are plenty of instances of Hearth Nation’s competitors being treated unfairly.”
“It’s only our Hearth Nation that has the grace to ensure fairness and impartiality in every competition, without resorting to despicable tactics.”
“I still remember a short track speed skating competition where a competitor from Des Moines intentionally tripped one of our competitors, causing her to lose the competition.
I was so upset at the time.”
“That’s why Pingla needs to be cautious in this Cooking Competition.
The International Culinary Competition sent Jenny Kirk as a judge; who knows if she’s here to snoop around and cause trouble.
...
But Pingla can’t reject it either; it’s really infuriating.”
“Exactly!” an audience member said, “She doesn’t really understand anything.
She just sounds nice on stage.”
“I think Rosaline Parker is just annoyed by her remarks and indirectly insulted her.”
“Rosaline insulted her so well!
We would prefer a direct confrontation and we all support it.”
Jenny Kirk didn’t expect Rosaline Parker to confront her so directly!
She said before that she came because she was invited.
She thought Pingla wouldn’t mind such a small matter.
Who knew, Rosaline Parker would immediately bring it up.
The audience at the scene would most likely believe Rosaline Parker’s words.
Rosaline Parker continued, “After all, Miss Kirk is not a professional.
It’s better for her to be cautious to avoid making wrong judgments and hurting the competitors.”
Jenny Kirk:”…”
Jenny Kirk gave an awkward laugh, covering up a few seconds of embarrassment.
She then said, “Chef Parker, I’m not done speaking yet.”
Rosaline Parker raised an eyebrow.
Was Jenny Kirk trying to confront her?
Rosaline Parker laughed scornfully with no attempt to hide it and said, “Go ahead.”
Rosaline Parker’s scoff was amplified through the microphone, and everyone heard it clearly.
The most authoritative Wesley Gordon pretended not to hear it, with no intention to prevent Rosaline Parker.
He also greatly disliked Jenny Kirk.
He didn’t want to be the peacemaker.
But he couldn’t let Rosaline Parker take all the heat.
They were standing on the side.
All the judges were a team, not only representing Pingla, but they also had a good relationship normally.
Rosaline Parker was actually a student from under Pingla Academy.
Wesley Gordon said, “Oh?
Miss Kirk just said that she’d wait for the final dishes to comment.
What more does she have to say now?”
Waiting for the final dishes before commenting was what Rosaline Parker had suggested.
If she wanted to criticize others now, she would be contradicting herself.
No matter what Rosaline Parker wanted to say, she wouldn’t be well received.
Finally, a look of annoyance appeared in Rosaline Parker’s eyes.
How could these judges have no respect in public at all?
Originally, Rosaline had relied on the fact that it was a public place, believing that no matter how unsatisfied they were, they would maintain a harmonious front.
Who knew that these few judges would be so disrespectful?
Rosaline didn’t even bother to smile anymore and said coldly, “Regarding the competitors’ food selection, I do want to wait until the final dishes come out.”
“Because right now, I can’t see what they intend to make with their chosen ingredients,” Jenny Kirk said.
The other judges hadn’t figured it out either, so her admitting she hadn’t wasn’t embarrassing or showing fear.
“However, for Cindy Clarke, I have some clues,” said Jenny Kirk.
“By seeing her using tomatoes and potatoes, she’s probably making a tomato and potato soup?
Because she didn’t take out the beef, it’s not the usual beef and tomato soup.
She also didn’t use any other types of meat or fish.”
“Only tomatoes and potatoes have appeared on the cooking station, so I thought she was making tomato and potato soup,” Jenny Kirk said.
The audience members nodded; what Jenny Kirk was saying made some sense.
Even a layperson could see that there were only these two ingredients on Cindy Clarke’s cooking station.
At the moment, Cindy hadn’t even gotten to the step of mashing the potatoes.
She was just slicing them to steam.
“This is a major competition!” Jenny Kirk said, “Isn’t Cindy Clarke’s choice too ordinary?”
“I cannot judge the others right now, which means they are unique in their own ways.”
“Only Cindy’s seems too plain.”
Chapter 880: Chapter 880: Don’t forget who her husband is_1 “Just by looking at her ingredients, I know exactly what she’s trying to do,” said Jenny Kirk.
The judges all looked disgruntled.
Despite Jenny Kirk’s bold declaration, they, being professionals, couldn’t form any rebuttal for the time being.
The ingredients that Cindy Clarke indeed chose were too simple.
Even if the everyone tried to deduce a potential innovative point from her ingredients, they couldn’t find any.
Jenny Kirk saw the judges stumble over their words and she promptly wore a triumphant look.
This proved she was right!
...
Now, let’s see how Cindy Clarke would manage this!
The audience also started to worry.
That’s right, Cindy Clarke had only chosen these two ingredients.
Jenny Kirk made a valid point.
The crowd was suddenly filled with resentment.
Having this non-professional judge, who was forced into the panel and lacks any real skill, seize upon this point was truly humiliating.
“What’s going on with Cindy Clarke?”
“She performed well before, why is she off to such a start this time?”
“Why did it have to be her that Jenny Kirk targeted?”
“Couldn’t she have chosen slightly more complicated ingredients?
Tomatoes and potatoes—how did she even think of this!”
“Even if she had added a piece of beef, it’d be better than just potatoes and tomatoes!”
Billy Houston quickly sent a message through the director to Grace Green.
Asking her to think of a solution.
Hoping Cindy Clarke could give some sort of explanation.
Grace Green was also in a difficult position.
She could ask Cindy Clarke what she was trying to make and why she’s doing it this way.
But what if Cindy Clarke was indeed planning on making Tomato potato soup?
That would just make things even more awkward.
But then, they noticed that Cindy Clarke was smashing the potatoes into a mash.
Grace Green immediately seized the opportunity, “It looks like Cindy Clarke is doing something different.”
“She’s mashed the potatoes,” said Grace Green, “and she’s adding milk and cream.”
Jenny Kirk’s expression shifted.
She was just asserting that Cindy Clarke’s dish lacked originality and was mediocre.
But the moment she finished, Cindy Clarke demonstrated a unique approach.
Wasn’t this just a slap in her face?
Jenny Kirk’s face immediately soured.
Michael Greene chuckled, “Cindy Clarke might be making Tomato potato soup, but it certainly won’t be the same as the soup you imagined, Miss Kirk.”
“Could it be that she’s not using potatoes for soup, but for mashed potatoes?” Grace Green wondered, “But won’t mashed potatoes sink to the bottom of the soup?”
What Cindy Clarke intends to do, no one could decipher for the moment.
Jenny Kirk hadn’t expected that within just a short while, Cindy Clarke had already handed another discussion point into her hands.
Jenny Kirk scoffed disdainfully, “Cindy Clarke isn’t thinking of making mashed potatoes, is she?
This round’s theme is the Soup Competition.
I hope Cindy Clarke doesn’t mind me reminding her that even with innovation, if the dish is off-topic, she won’t get a single point.”
“Besides, disregarding the off-topic issue for now, even if she wants to do mashed potatoes as a side dish, it really lacks creativity.”
“This isn’t some everyday home-cooked meal,” Kirk stated, “this is a competition, and it’s even the finals.”
“In the finals, bringing out a dish like mashed potatoes, isn’t that kind of a joke!” Jenny Kirk added.
After a moment’s thought, she still felt that her words hadn’t clawed enough, “It really doesn’t hold up under scrutiny.”
She shook her head and chuckled, “I’ve never seen a major competition, especially the finals being such an important occasion, where contestants use something like mashed potatoes, which is basically fast food, to compete.”
Jenny Kirk was busy calculating in her mind how Cindy Clarke’s skills really were.
Whether the judges had let her slide all the way here because of her relationship with Adrian Zhekova or not.
Or if Cindy Clarke truly was talented.
All these, she didn’t care.
What she was doing now was to crush Cindy Clarke’s confidence, affect Cindy Clarke’s state in the competition, and distract her.
Jenny Kirk kept making remarks that could potentially hurt Cindy Clarke’s pride.
Audaciously disregarding her dish, as if whatever Cindy Clarke did was never right.
Jenny Kirk didn’t care about being wrong, all she wanted was to affect Cindy Clarke’s psychological and judgmental state.
That would be enough.
Wesley Gordon calmly said, “As Miss Kirk initially said, before we see the final product, let’s not be hasty.”
Which plainly meant, would you please shut up?
But Jenny Kirk ignored him and kept her focus on Cindy Clarke.
Yet, Cindy Clarke remained unaffected by her attempts.
At this juncture, Grace Green announced, “Now, in the Soup Competition for the first round, there’s only 15 minutes left.”
The contestants were all carrying out their final procedures.
Cindy Clarke had also filled a piping bag with the prepared mashed potatoes.
This operation sparked curiosity amongst the audience.
“What is Cindy Clarke doing?”
“Who just said Cindy Clarke lacks creativity?
Hahaha!
She only needed tomatoes and potatoes, and she can still do things you would never guess.”
“I don’t know what Cindy Clarke has done, but it’s clear to me that Jenny Kirk appears to be targeting Cindy Clarke.”
“Yes, from the start, she hasn’t commented on anyone else.
Out of the 10 contestants, she has only commented on Cindy Clarke.
And not a single remark was positive.”
“Previously, the five judges would never prematurely conclude during the contestants’ cooking process.
Instead, they’d explain to us the reasons behind the contestants’ actions, speculate on what the contestants might be planning to do, and encourage them at the same time.
You can tell that the judges are trying not to affect the contestants’ state, so they would not be disturbed by their comments.”
“After all, it’s a live competition, and the judges all have microphones.
The contestants can hear what the judges say to the audience.
If something negative is said and it affects the contestants’ confidence, it wouldn’t be good.”
“Indeed, psychological conditions are extremely important in a competition.
If the contestant is unable to perform well due to certain comments, it only means their psychological condition isn’t stable.
Despite knowing this, the judges are still careful not to affect the contestant’s state, which is a way of showing care towards them.”
“Yes, so sometimes when the judges comment harshly, I find the judges so adorable.
They genuinely care for the contestants.
They do not influence them during the process, yet they provide unconditional guidance during the review of the results.”
“Yes, during the comment session, if they continue playing nice and worrying about hurting the contestants’ feelings, preferring to say nice things instead of pointing out the flaws, the contestants will never be able to improve or learn anything.
The judges are clear about this.”
“Jenny Kirk, on the other hand, did just the opposite of the judges.
During the competition, she kept badmouthing Cindy Clarke, affecting Clarke’s state of mind.
What is she trying to achieve?”
“Did you notice that Jenny Kirk only commented on Cindy Clarke from start to end, and nobody else?
It seems like she’s here just to target Cindy Clarke.”
“What’s the deal with Jenny Kirk?”
“With her as a judge, can this competition even proceed smoothly?”
Of course, not all the audience members were speaking on behalf of Cindy Clarke.
Some mentioned, “Why are you all worrying about Cindy Clarke?
Don’t forget who her husband is.”