Julie decided then and there to learn the basics of cooking and impress Maria with her newfound skills.

Lost in her thoughts, Julie didn't notice Maria peeking over her shoulder at the food on the table.

The charred food was supposed to be steaks. The steamed eggs in the big bowl had collapsed, looking like soggy bread.

Then, there was the fried cabbage, bright green but clearly undercooked.

"Maria, um... Let's not eat this. How about we order take-out or dine out instead?"