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

more aware of the

the weight of what’s just

silent, too still. I gently shut the door and then,

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

joy escapes my

just an opportunity. It’s a validation of every sacrifice

ounce of passion I’ve poured into

the realization of a dream, a testament to the

for the culinary arts.

restaurant’s name being spoken in the same breath as

credibility—the implications are

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

this? This

is uncertain, even though the competition will be stiff,

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

I overcame, was leading

high, yes. But

burst into the bar area. Ethan and Chloe are engaged in

by their smiles. But all that is forgotten

on the bar

guys! You will not believe what just happened in my office!”

The sheer excitement makes it difficult

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

I recount my meeting with Calvin. “We’ve been chosen

There’s going

elation

surprise to pure shock.

for any sign

my Go

tight embrace. The warmth of her

me.

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

she’s seeing

playful tw inkle in his eye. “Do I get

a hug, his lanky frame bending

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

change everything for us!”

Ethan promises,

muted conversation from the kitchen is momentarily

of a door

corner of my eye, I spot Karl, clad in

presumably from the loud commotion we