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.”

With that, he rises, the

the more aware of the

weight of what’s

still. I gently shut the door and then, unable to

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

joy escapes my

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

into this establishment. Winning

would be the realization of a dream, a testament to the love I

for the culinary arts.

in the same breath as the city’s elites,

credibility—the implications

it’s the recognition. Every

this? This is as big

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

It feels like the universe’s way of telling me that

overcame, was

yes. But the thrill? The thrill is

through me, I burst into the bar area. Ethan and Chloe

But

the bar counter, grabbing their

believe what just happened in my office!” I nearly shout, my

than usual. The sheer excitement makes it difficult to control

grin fades to an expression of curiosity

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

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

elation

surprise to pure shock. “Are you

face for any sign of

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

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

me.

she gushes, pulling away but holding my shoulders

she’s seeing

inkle in his eye. “Do I get a hug,

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

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

change everything for us!”

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

of clinking dishes and muted conversation from

sound of a

corner of my eye, I spot Karl, clad in his

from the loud commotion we were