The Sweetest Dish

#10 Exploring Ecosystems! Hostess Hana's Haven of Knowledge!

The mellow glow of the setting sun filtered through Baratie's windows, casting a golden hue over Sanji and Hana as they worked side by side. Sanji plated up another exquisite dish, stealing a furtive glance at Hana while she greeted customers with her trademark warmth. Their shoulders brushed momentarily, sending a shiver down his spine that he quickly dismissed. He knew Zeff would have his head if he caught them flirting on the job.

"Sanji, table five needs their appetizers," Hana whispered, leaning in just close enough for her scent to intoxicate him. He couldn't help but think back to their beach stroll when the salty sea breeze had mingled with her perfume. The way she had laughed as they splashed through the surf together had been etched into his memory.

"Right away, Hana," he replied with a charming smile, expertly balancing plates atop his arms before whisking them off to the awaiting diners.

Ever since their impromptu trip to the market for supplies, their bond had grown stronger. The laughter they'd shared while haggling with vendors and the way her eyes lit up when she discovered an exotic ingredient made it nearly impossible to keep their feelings at bay.

"Did you try those new spices we got?" Hana asked, biting her lip playfully as she leaned against the counter. The question was innocent, but the way she looked at him was anything but.

"Of course," Sanji grinned, recalling how the bold flavors had reminded him of her vivacious spirit. "I've even created a special dish, inspired by our little adventure."

"Really?" Her eyes sparkled with curiosity. "What's it called?"

"Ah, that's a secret," Sanji teased, tapping the side of his nose. "You'll just have to wait and see."

Hana rolled her eyes but couldn't hide her amused smile. "Aw, no fun in waiting!"

As they continued their dance around each other, the unspoken tension between them grew, fueled by stolen glances and lingering touches. Even though Zeff's restrictions hung over their heads like a dark cloud, Sanji couldn't help but dream of a future where he could express his feelings for Hana without fear.

But for now, he knew they had to focus on their work, ensuring that Baratie remained the top dining destination it was known for. As he watched Hana effortlessly charm another table of guests, Sanji vowed to himself that he would find a way to show her just how much she meant to him, even if it took every ounce of creativity he possessed.

"Sanji, table eight needs more wine," Hana called out, snapping him back to reality.

"Of course," he replied, grabbing a bottle with a flourish. As he made his way across the bustling restaurant, he couldn't resist one last glance back at Hana. Their eyes met briefly, and in that moment, the world seemed to fall away, leaving only the two of them and the unspoken connection that bound them together.

As the sun continued to set outside Baratie, Hana stood at her station, gracefully attending to a group of customers. She couldn't help but feel a mix of emotions, as thoughts of Sanji flickered like shadows in her mind. She caught herself stealing a glance at him from time to time, watching him work his culinary magic with a smile.

"Miss, could you recommend a dessert for us?" a customer asked, pulling Hana back into the moment.

"Of course," she replied, her professionalism shining through despite her inner turmoil. "Our chef's special today is a delightful chocolate mousse with a hint of sea salt. It pairs beautifully with our raspberry coulis."

"Sounds divine! We'll take two, please," the customer beamed, clearly impressed with Hana's eloquent description.

"Coming right up!" Hana said, scribbling down the order. As she turned to hand the order to Sanji, she remembered their conversation about the Marine life workshop. The idea still lingered in her mind, and she couldn't help but feel a growing enthusiasm for it.