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 full

the more aware of the significance of

leaves, the weight of what’s

too still. I gently shut the

covering my face with both hands. A m

joy escapes

a validation of

every ounce of passion I’ve poured into

just garner business. It would be the realization

for the culinary arts.

idea of my restaurant’s name being spoken in the same breath as

credibility—the implications

recognition. Every chef, every

this? This

even though the competition will be stiff, this

It feels like the universe’s way of telling me

overcame, was leading

yes. But the

into the bar area. Ethan and

by their smiles. But

the bar counter,

just happened in my

The sheer excitement makes it difficult to

expression of curiosity while Chloe’s eyes widen. “What is it,

my meeting with Calvin.

the Alpha gathering! There’s going to be a cook-off and everything!”

the elation

morph from surprise to pure

my face for

shared excitement. “Oh my Go d, Abby!” She squeals, wrapping her

warmth of her hug

me.

away but holding my

as though she’s seeing me

tw inkle in his eye. “Do I get

in a hug, his lanky

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

change everything for us!”

of the way,” Ethan promises,

of clinking dishes and muted conversation from

of a door swinging

eye, I spot Karl, clad in his

the loud commotion we