Chasing His Kickass Luna Back by Jane Above Story

#Chapter 54: Cookoff?!
Abby novelbin

“This… Isn’t a prank, right?”

Even as I utter those words, I feel like an idiot. But I can’t help myself; I just can’t wrap my head around

this whole situation. My little restaurant was chosen as one of four finalists for the Alpha gathering out

of all of the amazing restaurants in the city?

The rich timbre of Calvin’s chuckle fills the room. “A prank? No, ma’am, this is as real as it gets. But, I’d

advise you not to pop the champagne just yet.”

I raise an eyebrow, my heart still pounding hard. “Why’s that?”

“The selection process requires a cook-off,” he explains. “Each of the four chosen restaurants will

compete to showcase their culinary prowess. Based on this, we’ll decide which establishment will have

the honor of catering for the Alpha gathering. It will be quite rigorous.”

The gravity of the competition he’s describing does little to dampen my excitement. This is an incredible

opportunity, and even just being considered feels like a massive win. “So, what you’re saying is that

there’s a chance, even if it’s one in four?”

“Exactly. And considering the caliber of dishes you serve here, I’d say you stand a good chance.”

Calvin’s smile is enigmatic, but it’s clear he’s not just trying to flatter me. “If you accept our offer to

participate, I’ll make sure all the details and requirements are sent to you ASAP.”

A whirlwind of thoughts race through my mind. The dishes I’d prepare, the strategies I’d employ, the

possible reactions of the judges. But even amidst this rush, the answer is clear.

“Of course I accept,” I say, my voice firm and decisive.

“Excellent. I believed you would,” Calvin nods, pulling out a sleek card from his pocket and placing it on

my desk. “This is my direct contact. Should you have any questions or need clarification, don’t hesitate

to reach out.”

I take the card, the cool, smooth texture a stark contrast to the warmth of my fingers. “Thank you, Mr.

Thompson. I won’t let you down.”

“I’m counting on it.” With

more aware of the

the weight of

suddenly feels too silent, too still. I gently

face with both hands. A m

joy escapes my

validation of every sacrifice I’ve

poured into this establishment. Winning this cook-off

the realization

for the culinary arts.

name being spoken in the

the credibility—the implications are

than that, it’s the recognition. Every chef, every

And this? This is as

is uncertain, even though the competition will be stiff, this

way of telling me that every challenge I

overcame, was leading

are high, yes. But the thrill? The thrill

I burst into the bar area.

But all that is

on the bar counter, grabbing

You will not believe what just happened in my office!” I nearly

than usual. The sheer excitement makes it difficult to

an expression of curiosity while Chloe’s eyes

breath, I recount my meeting with Calvin. “We’ve

going to be a cook-off

the elation bubbling

pure shock. “Are you

my face for any sign of

eyes sparkle with shared excitement. “Oh my Go d, Abby!” She squeals,

me in a tight embrace. The warmth of her hug only adds to the fuzzy

me.

you!” she gushes, pulling away but holding my

as though she’s seeing me for the first

inkle in his eye. “Do I get a hug,

I envelope him in a hug, his lanky frame bending to accommodate mine. “Of course, you

I add, “I’m going to need all hands on deck.

change everything for us!”

way,” Ethan promises, his tone sincere.

dishes and muted conversation from

the sound of a door

the corner of my eye, I spot Karl, clad in his bandana

presumably from the loud