For the answer to the question above, I believe it is various forms of be.
The most common linking verbs are, am, is, are, was, were, being, and been, so the correct answer is the third choice among the given questions.
All but the 3rd one, i think.
There is no bold portion in the sentence you gave
I would add some kind of punctuation between you and said.
I will prepare an excellent meal for you. Said the cook.