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.”

appears in his eyes. “I’m counting on it.” With that, he rises, the action smooth and

me all the more aware of the

of what’s just

silent, too still. I gently

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

escapes my

validation of every sacrifice I’ve made, every

into

realization of

for the culinary arts.

being spoken in

the credibility—the implications

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

this? This is as big as

road ahead is uncertain, even though the competition will be stiff, this

feels golden. It feels like the universe’s way of telling me that every challenge

overcame, was leading up to

high, yes. But the thrill? The thrill

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

by their smiles. But

on the bar counter, grabbing their

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

makes

of curiosity while Chloe’s eyes widen. “What is it,

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

going to be a cook-off and everything!” I

the elation

to pure shock. “Are you serious?” Ethan gasps,

face for any

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

embrace. The warmth of her hug only

me.

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

seeing me

in

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

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

change everything for us!”

way,” Ethan promises, his tone sincere. “Whatever

of clinking dishes and muted conversation

the sound of a door

corner of my eye, I spot Karl, clad in his bandana and t-shirt, striding into the dining area.

is furrowed, presumably from the loud commotion we were