Eve spoke, voice steady. “Over the last twenty-four hours, claims have circulated suggesting that the competition is rigged or influenced by personal grievances. Those claims are false.”
The production rep nodded slightly.
Eve continued. “I understand public concern. Food is personal. Competition is emotional. And every chef in that kitchen brings passion, skill, and commitment.”
The lawyer tilted his head, listening more carefully now.
Eve’s throat burned with anger, but she kept her voice calm. “I also acknowledge that contestant Mathew and I have professional history. That history has no influence on scoring.”
The lawyer’s eyes narrowed. “Be careful.”
Eve didn’t flinch. “If I don’t acknowledge it, he controls the narrative. If I do, I take away the mystery.”
Ryan spoke quietly. “
