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.”

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

that makes me all the more aware

weight of what’s

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

in my chair, covering my face

joy escapes

a validation of every sacrifice I’ve made, every

poured into this establishment.

the realization of a dream, a

for the culinary arts.

restaurant’s name being spoken in the same breath

the credibility—the implications are

recognition. Every chef,

And this? This

uncertain, even though the competition will be stiff,

feels like the universe’s way of telling me that every challenge

overcame, was leading up to

high, yes. But the thrill? The

into the bar area. Ethan and Chloe are engaged in what

But all that is forgotten as I

on the bar counter, grabbing

believe what just happened in my office!” I nearly shout, my

excitement makes it

curiosity while Chloe’s eyes widen. “What is

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

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

elation

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

for any sign

“Oh my

in a tight embrace. The warmth of her hug only adds to

me.

of you!” she gushes, pulling away but holding my

she’s seeing me

clears his throat, a playful tw inkle in

a hug, his lanky frame bending

Pulling back, I add, “I’m

change everything for us!”

with you every step of the way,” Ethan promises, his tone sincere.

of clinking dishes and muted conversation from

the sound of a door swinging

clad in his bandana and t-shirt,

presumably from the loud commotion we