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.”

With that, he rises, the action smooth and

makes me all the more aware

of what’s just transpired hits

silent, too still. I gently

chair, covering my face with both hands.

joy escapes

a validation of every sacrifice I’ve made,

of passion I’ve poured into this establishment. Winning this

realization of a dream, a testament to the love I

for the culinary arts.

restaurant’s name being spoken in the same breath as the

credibility—the implications

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

This is as big as

though the competition will

golden. It feels like the universe’s way of telling me that every

was leading

stakes are high, yes. But the thrill? The thrill is

through me, I burst into the bar area.

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

the bar counter, grabbing their

You will not believe what just happened in

than usual. The sheer excitement makes

expression of curiosity while

my meeting with Calvin.

gathering! There’s going to be a cook-off and everything!” I can

elation bubbling within

morph from surprise to pure shock. “Are you

my face for any

“Oh my Go

The warmth of her hug only adds to the

me.

gushes, pulling away but holding

as though she’s seeing me for

a playful tw inkle in his eye. “Do

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

Pulling back, I add, “I’m going to need all hands

change everything for us!”

Ethan promises, his tone sincere. “Whatever you

dishes and muted conversation from the

of a door swinging

in his bandana

from the loud