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

more aware of the significance

the weight of what’s just transpired hits

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

my chair, covering my face with both hands. A

escapes my

validation

I’ve poured into this establishment. Winning

be the realization

for the culinary arts.

spoken in

credibility—the

recognition. Every chef, every restaurateur dreams

this? This is

though the road ahead is uncertain, even though the competition will be

way of telling me

I overcame, was leading up to

are high, yes. But the thrill?

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

amusing chat, judging by their smiles. But all that is forgotten as I dramatically slam

the bar counter,

happened in

excitement makes it difficult to control

grin fades to an expression of curiosity while

breath, I recount my meeting with

There’s going to

the elation bubbling within

from surprise to pure shock. “Are you serious?” Ethan

my face for any sign of

“Oh my Go d, Abby!” She squeals, wrapping

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

me.

proud of you!” she gushes, pulling away but holding my shoulders at arm’s length,

as though she’s seeing me for

tw inkle in his eye. “Do I get a

I envelope him in a hug, his lanky frame bending to accommodate mine.

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

change everything for us!”

step of the way,” Ethan promises, his tone sincere. “Whatever you

dishes and muted conversation from the kitchen is

sound of

the corner of my eye, I spot Karl, clad in

the loud commotion we were