I would definitely read more of that story!

I'm not as critical about syntax and grammar errors as I am at my job, so don't let concern about that kind of thing stifle your creativity. In other words, when it comes to my porn, I'm not that picky! Oops, not porn -- I mean "erotica".

Since we're on the subject of things that are distracting to the reader, about the only thing that will make me click the window closed (no matter how good the story) is the "never ending paragraph." Having one paragraph for every 1000 words is just too hard on the eyes.

There are some very good stories here that have errors in it, such as changing a name to protect the not-so-innocent that the story was originally about, but only doing it half of the time in the story. The sub is Mary through half of the story, and Gertrude through half. I just pause to figure it out, then read on if it's a good story!

Anyway, back on topic...

There are so many directions your interesting first paragraph could go. I would have never thought about the cooking school idea -- great idea! (I don't cook, which is probably why I never would have thought of it. HA!)

After reading your paragraph, I imagined that the woman could have been left by her relator in a house that was for sale. Along comes other prospective buyers or the house owners for... unlimited possibilities.

You'll have to post the link to your whole story when you complete it!