As soon as these words were spoken, the room erupted in applause that startled Lin Chen, who hadn't yet processed what was happening.
"Congratulations, Chef Lin!"
"Amazing, I can't believe I have the honor to witness the birth of a genius chef firsthand."
"I bet Lin now absolutely has a chance to aspire to the honor of a Michelin Chef."
"Five years, in just five short years, I've seen him climb step by step from a dishwasher to where he is now. Oh my gosh, it's so inspiring and moving; I'm about to cry."
Besides the waitstaff, Anderson and Jolian, his former colleagues, were also generous with their applause, even stepping forward to shake his hand and congratulate him.
"Congratulations, Lin."
"You're my role model. I won't give up either; I'll make it to Head Chef one day!"
"Uh... thank you."
Lin Chen smiled awkwardly, a bit unsure of how to handle such an embarrassing situation.
