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

makes me all the more aware of the significance of this

he leaves, the weight of

feels too silent, too still. I gently shut

covering my face

escapes my

an opportunity. It’s a validation of every sacrifice I’ve

into this establishment. Winning this cook-off would

be the realization of a dream, a testament

for the culinary arts.

of my restaurant’s name being spoken in the same breath as the city’s elites,

credibility—the

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

craft. And this? This is as big as it

ahead is uncertain, even though the competition

like the universe’s way of telling me that

I overcame, was leading up

are high, yes. But the thrill? The

the bar area. Ethan and

chat, judging by their smiles. But

bar counter, grabbing their

not believe what just happened in my office!” I nearly

makes it difficult to control my

expression of curiosity

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

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

elation bubbling

pair’s expressions morph from surprise to pure shock.

my face for

excitement. “Oh my Go d, Abby!” She squeals, wrapping her

her hug only adds to the fuzzy happiness

me.

away but holding my

seeing me for the first

clears his throat, a playful tw inkle in his

envelope him in a hug, his lanky frame bending to accommodate mine. “Of course, you

add, “I’m

change everything for us!”

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

and muted conversation from the kitchen

the sound of a door

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

is furrowed, presumably from the loud commotion