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.”

his eyes. “I’m counting on it.” With that, he rises, the action smooth and full

that makes me all the more aware of the significance of

the weight of what’s just transpired

silent, too still. I gently

covering my face with

joy escapes my

validation

poured into this establishment. Winning this

business. It would be the realization of a dream, a testament to the

for the culinary arts.

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

the credibility—the implications are

the recognition. Every chef, every restaurateur

And this? This is as

uncertain, even though the competition will be stiff, this

the universe’s way of telling me that every challenge I faced,

was leading up to

yes. But the thrill? The thrill

the bar area. Ethan and Chloe are

But all that is forgotten as I

the bar counter, grabbing their

not believe what just happened in my office!”

usual. The sheer excitement makes it difficult

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

I recount my meeting with Calvin. “We’ve been chosen as

to cater for the Alpha gathering! There’s going to

elation bubbling within

morph from surprise to pure

my face for

excitement. “Oh my Go d, Abby!”

of her hug only

me.

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

seeing me for

playful tw inkle in his

in a hug, his lanky frame bending

“I’m going to need all hands on

change everything for us!”

of the way,” Ethan promises, his tone

clinking dishes and muted conversation from the kitchen is momentarily

of a door swinging

corner of my eye, I spot Karl, clad in his bandana and

the