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.”

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

the more aware of the significance of

of what’s just transpired hits

I gently shut the door and then, unable to contain the

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

joy escapes my

a validation

every ounce of passion I’ve poured into this establishment. Winning this cook-off would

realization of

for the culinary arts.

of my restaurant’s name being spoken in the same breath as the city’s elites,

credibility—the implications

the recognition. Every chef, every restaurateur

And this? This is as big as it

even though the competition will

feels like the universe’s way of telling me that

I overcame, was leading

high, yes. But the thrill? The

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

chat, judging by their smiles. But all that is forgotten as

on the bar counter, grabbing their

in my office!” I nearly

The sheer excitement makes it difficult to

grin fades to an expression of curiosity while Chloe’s eyes

pausing for a breath, I recount my meeting

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

elation bubbling

pair’s expressions morph from surprise to pure shock.

face for any sign of

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

The warmth of her hug only adds to the fuzzy happiness

me.

away but holding my shoulders at arm’s length,

as though she’s seeing me for the first

inkle in his eye. “Do I get a

his lanky frame bending to accommodate mine. “Of course, you

“I’m going to need

change everything for us!”

of the way,” Ethan promises, his

dishes and muted conversation from

sound of

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

from the loud