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.”

counting on it.” With that, he rises, the action smooth and full of a

all the more aware of the significance

he leaves, the weight of what’s just transpired

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

face with both hands. A

joy escapes

a validation of every sacrifice I’ve made, every late

I’ve poured into this establishment. Winning this cook-off would

business. It would be the realization of a

for the culinary arts.

of my restaurant’s name being spoken in the same

the credibility—the implications are

Every chef, every

craft. And this? This is as big

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

way of telling me that

overcame, was leading up to

stakes are high, yes. But the thrill? The thrill is

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

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

the bar

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

The sheer excitement makes it difficult

to an expression of curiosity while

pausing for a breath, I recount my meeting with Calvin. “We’ve been chosen as one of

going to

the elation bubbling

pair’s expressions morph from surprise to pure shock. “Are you serious?” Ethan

face for any sign of

shared excitement. “Oh my

a tight embrace. The warmth of her

me.

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

seeing me for the first

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

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

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

change everything for us!”

the way,” Ethan promises, his

of clinking dishes and muted conversation from the kitchen is

of a

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

presumably from the