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.”

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

me all the more aware

of what’s just

suddenly feels too silent, too still. I gently shut

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

escapes

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

into this

the realization of a dream, a

for the culinary arts.

in

the credibility—the

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

their craft. And this? This

is uncertain, even though the

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

overcame, was

are high, yes. But

I burst into the bar area.

chat, judging by their smiles. But all that is forgotten as

the bar counter, grabbing their

in my office!” I

sheer excitement makes it difficult to

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

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

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

the elation bubbling

surprise to pure shock.

face for

my Go d, Abby!” She squeals, wrapping

tight embrace. The warmth of her hug only adds to the fuzzy

me.

pulling away but holding my shoulders at arm’s length,

though she’s seeing me for the first

clears his throat, a playful tw inkle in his eye.

in a hug, his lanky frame

Pulling back, I add, “I’m going to need all hands on deck. This

change everything for us!”

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

and muted conversation from the kitchen is momentarily

the sound of a door

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

presumably from the loud commotion we were