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.”

on it.” With that, he

the more aware of

of what’s

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

my chair, covering my face with

joy escapes my

opportunity. It’s a validation of every sacrifice I’ve made, every late

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

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

for the culinary arts.

of my restaurant’s name being spoken in

the credibility—the implications are

the recognition. Every chef, every

craft. And this? This is

uncertain, even though the competition

way of telling me that every

overcame, was leading up

stakes are high, yes. But the thrill?

into the bar area. Ethan and Chloe are

chat, judging by their smiles. But

bar counter, grabbing their

believe what just happened in my office!” I nearly

excitement makes it difficult to control my

to an expression of curiosity

a breath, I recount my meeting with Calvin. “We’ve

gathering! There’s going to

the elation

morph from surprise to pure shock.

face for

“Oh my Go

embrace. The warmth of her hug only adds to the fuzzy

me.

you!” she gushes, pulling away but holding my

though she’s seeing me for the

clears his throat, a playful tw inkle in his

a hug, his lanky frame bending to accommodate mine.

against his chest. Pulling back, I add, “I’m

change everything for us!”

the way,” Ethan

muted conversation

the sound of a door

Karl, clad in his bandana and t-shirt, striding into the

furrowed, presumably from the loud commotion we