The Way

"Done." Ern pronounced as he put out the fire.

He placed a large crispy steak, some roasted vegetables, and several kinds of sauces on the plates. He carefully poured the red sauce over the steak and placed it on a bed of rice.

"Have you thought about becoming a chef?' Wain asked.

"No." Ern shook his head, "I wouldn't be able to cook as well in a restaurant kitchen or person to someone for money. In fact, I don't like working, especially for someone. I do better when doing it for myself."

Wain nodded weakly, he shared Ern's opinion.

"I'll go get the others." Ern muttered as he headed for the kitchen exit.

However, he didn't have to go anywhere. Alice and Erza smelled that great aroma and quickly came to dinner.

'Is that Erza...?' Wain muttered.

She looked a little different than before. Her hair was mussed, her clothes dirty, and she had an unfinished bottle of bourbon in her hand, it was just a mess.