#Chapter 111: Stoke the Flames

Abby My heart hammers in my chest as Anton’s words hang in the air between us. “Everything comes at a price,” he said. I’m hooked, completely sold on whatever secret culinary world he comes from, but his cryptic statement sends shivers down my spine. What could he possibly mean? “Alright… what’s the catch?” I finally manage to say, my eyes darting between Anton’s piercing gaze, John’s excited smirk, and Karl’s visibly confused expression. Anton’s eyes search mine for a long moment. Finally, he sighs and starts to speak. “I lost everything once, Abby. My career, my family, all because of a decision that sent my life spiraling out of control.” “What was it?” Karl butts in, causing me to shoot him a warning glare. He shrugs, making a face. “What? Don’t we have the right to know?” I’m about to open my mouth to respond, but before I can, Anton nods and speaks. “He is right. I’ll say it plainly: I made a series of bad investments. I stupidly gave away my family’s savings