#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.”

on it.” With that, he rises, the action

me all the more aware of the significance of

of what’s just

I gently shut the

my chair, covering my face with both hands. A m uffled

escapes

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

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

just garner business. It would be the realization of a dream, a testament to the love I

for the culinary arts.

idea of my restaurant’s name being spoken in the same

credibility—the

Every chef, every

And this? This is

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

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

was

But

bar

judging by their smiles. But all that is forgotten

bar counter, grabbing

in

excitement makes

expression of curiosity while Chloe’s eyes

my meeting with Calvin. “We’ve been

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

the elation

to pure shock. “Are you serious?” Ethan gasps, his

face for any

with shared excitement. “Oh my Go d, Abby!” She squeals,

her hug only

me.

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

though she’s seeing me for

his throat, a playful tw inkle in his

lanky frame

chest. Pulling back, I add, “I’m going

change everything for us!”

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

dishes and muted conversation

the sound of a door swinging

in his bandana and t-shirt, striding into

is furrowed, presumably from the loud

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