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.”

glint appears in his eyes. “I’m counting on it.” With that,

me all the more

leaves, the weight of

suddenly feels too silent, too still. I gently shut the door

excitement, lean back in my chair, covering my face with both hands. A m uffled yell

joy escapes

more than just an opportunity. It’s a validation of every sacrifice I’ve made, every

poured into this establishment. Winning

It would be the realization of a dream, a

for the culinary arts.

being spoken in the same breath as the city’s elites,

the credibility—the implications are

than that, it’s the recognition. Every chef, every restaurateur dreams of being

their craft. And this? This is as big as

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

way

I overcame, was

But

burst into the bar area. Ethan and Chloe are

judging by their smiles. But all that is forgotten as I

the bar counter,

not believe what just happened in my office!” I nearly shout, my voice

sheer excitement makes it difficult

curiosity while Chloe’s eyes widen. “What

I recount my meeting with Calvin.

going to be a cook-off and everything!” I

the elation bubbling within

expressions morph from surprise to pure shock. “Are you serious?” Ethan gasps, his

my face for any sign of

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

her hug only adds to the fuzzy happiness that

me.

you!” she gushes, pulling away but holding my shoulders at arm’s length,

as though she’s seeing me

a playful tw inkle in his eye.

I envelope him in a hug, his lanky frame bending to accommodate mine.

mumble against his chest. Pulling back, I add, “I’m going to need all hands on deck. This

change everything for us!”

every step of the way,” Ethan promises,

and muted conversation from the

the sound of a door swinging

spot Karl, clad in his bandana and t-shirt, striding into

the loud