#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.”

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

the more aware of the significance

he leaves, the weight of what’s just

gently shut the door and then,

in my chair, covering my face

joy escapes my

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

I’ve poured into this establishment. Winning this

It would be the realization of

for the culinary arts.

being spoken in the same breath as

the credibility—the implications

Every chef, every restaurateur

This is

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

the universe’s way of telling me that

I overcame, was leading up to

yes. But

the bar area. Ethan and

by their smiles. But all that is forgotten as

the bar counter, grabbing their

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

The sheer excitement makes it difficult to control

grin fades to an expression of curiosity while Chloe’s eyes widen.

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

There’s going to be a cook-off and everything!” I can

elation

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

searching my face for

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

warmth of her hug only adds to the fuzzy happiness that

me.

of you!” she gushes, pulling away

as though she’s seeing

in

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

“I’m going to need all hands

change everything for us!”

step of the way,” Ethan promises, his

muted conversation from the

the sound of a door

eye, I spot Karl, clad in his bandana and t-shirt, striding

the

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