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, he rises, the action smooth and

all the more aware of the

of what’s just transpired

too still. I gently shut the door and then, unable to

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

joy escapes

a validation of every sacrifice I’ve

poured into

would be the realization of a dream, a testament to

for the culinary arts.

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

the credibility—the implications

recognition. Every chef, every

this? This is

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

feels golden. It feels like the universe’s way of

overcame, was

yes. But the thrill? The thrill

through me, I burst into the bar area. Ethan and Chloe are engaged in what

But all that is forgotten as

on the bar

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

makes it difficult to

fades to an expression of curiosity while Chloe’s eyes

pausing for a breath, I recount my meeting with Calvin. “We’ve been chosen as

cater for the Alpha gathering! There’s going

elation

pair’s expressions morph from surprise to pure shock. “Are you serious?”

searching my face for any sign

sparkle with shared excitement. “Oh my Go d,

embrace. The warmth of her hug only

me.

she gushes, pulling away but holding my shoulders at arm’s length, looking

as though she’s seeing me

clears his throat, a playful tw inkle in

his lanky frame bending to accommodate

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

change everything for us!”

of the way,” Ethan promises, his tone sincere. “Whatever you need,

cacophony of clinking dishes and muted conversation from the

the sound of a door

my eye, I spot Karl, clad in his bandana and t-shirt, striding into the

presumably from the loud commotion we were