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.”

“I’m counting on it.” With that, he rises, the action smooth and full

more aware of the

of what’s just

too silent, too still. I gently shut the door

face with both hands.

joy escapes my

opportunity. It’s a validation

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

the realization of a

for the culinary arts.

my restaurant’s name being spoken in the same

the credibility—the implications

it’s the recognition. Every chef, every restaurateur dreams of being

And this? This is as big as

is uncertain, even though the

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

was

are high, yes. But the thrill?

into the bar area. Ethan and Chloe are

But all that is

on the bar counter, grabbing

in my office!”

The sheer excitement makes it difficult to control my

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

a breath, I recount my meeting with Calvin. “We’ve

to cater for the Alpha gathering! There’s going to be a cook-off and

the elation

pure shock. “Are you

searching my face for

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

warmth of her hug only adds to the fuzzy happiness that

me.

so proud of you!” she gushes, pulling away but holding

as though she’s seeing me

clears his throat, a playful tw inkle in his

his lanky frame bending to

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

change everything for us!”

with you every step of the way,” Ethan promises,

cacophony of clinking dishes and muted conversation from the

of a door swinging

the corner of my eye, I spot Karl, clad in his bandana and t-shirt,

is furrowed, presumably from the loud commotion we