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

makes me all the more aware of

leaves, the weight of what’s just

too silent, too still. I gently shut the door

covering my face with both hands.

joy escapes my

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

into this establishment. Winning this

the realization of a

for the culinary arts.

spoken in the same breath as the

credibility—the

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

This is as big as it

the road ahead is uncertain, even though the competition

like the universe’s way of telling me that

I overcame, was leading up to

yes. But the thrill?

bar area. Ethan and Chloe are engaged in

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

on the bar counter, grabbing their

in my office!” I

than usual. The sheer excitement makes it difficult to

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

recount my meeting with Calvin.

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

the elation

from surprise to pure shock. “Are you serious?”

face for

my Go

her hug only

me.

gushes, pulling away but holding my shoulders

as though she’s seeing me for the first

tw inkle in his

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

Pulling back, I add, “I’m

change everything for us!”

you every step of the way,” Ethan promises, his tone

clinking dishes and muted conversation from the

of a door

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

from the loud