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 action smooth and full

that makes me all the more

leaves, the weight of what’s just transpired

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

covering my face with both hands.

escapes

an opportunity. It’s a validation of every sacrifice

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

garner business. It would be the realization of a

for the culinary arts.

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

credibility—the

recognition. Every

And this? This is as big as

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

universe’s way of telling

overcame, was

yes. But the thrill? The thrill

the bar area. Ethan and Chloe are

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

bar

You will not believe what just happened in my

The sheer excitement makes

to an expression of curiosity

a breath, I recount my meeting with Calvin.

gathering! There’s going to

the elation bubbling within

surprise to pure shock. “Are you

for any

“Oh my Go d,

a tight embrace. The warmth of her hug only adds

me.

gushes, pulling away but

though she’s seeing me for the

throat, a playful tw inkle in his eye. “Do I get a hug,

envelope him in a hug, his lanky frame bending

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

change everything for us!”

Ethan promises, his tone sincere. “Whatever

of clinking dishes and muted conversation

the sound of a door swinging

corner of my eye, I spot Karl, clad in his bandana and t-shirt, striding into the dining area.

furrowed, presumably from the