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 that, he rises, the

all the more aware

the weight of what’s

suddenly feels too silent, too still. I gently shut the door and then, unable to contain

my chair, covering my face with both

escapes my

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

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

be the realization

for the culinary arts.

of my restaurant’s name being spoken in the

the credibility—the implications

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

And this? This

uncertain, even though the competition

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

overcame, was leading up to

are high, yes. But the thrill? The thrill

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

an amusing chat, judging by their smiles. But all that

the bar

in my office!” I nearly

usual. The sheer excitement makes it difficult to control my

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

a breath, I recount my meeting with Calvin.

Alpha gathering! There’s going to be

elation bubbling

pair’s expressions morph from surprise to pure shock. “Are you

face for any

“Oh my Go d, Abby!” She

embrace. The warmth of her hug only

me.

she gushes, pulling away but holding my shoulders at

she’s seeing me

throat, a playful tw inkle in his eye.

a hug, his lanky frame bending to accommodate

back, I add, “I’m going

change everything for us!”

the way,” Ethan promises, his tone

dishes and muted conversation from the

the sound of a door swinging

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

the loud