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

that makes me all the more aware of the significance

of what’s

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

covering my face

escapes

validation of every sacrifice I’ve made,

poured into this establishment. Winning this

would be the realization of a dream, a testament to

for the culinary arts.

idea of my restaurant’s name being spoken in the same breath as the city’s

credibility—the

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

this? This is

uncertain, even though

way of telling me that every

I overcame, was leading

are high, yes. But

bar area. Ethan and

But all that is forgotten as

the bar

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

than usual. The sheer excitement makes

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

recount my meeting with

for the Alpha gathering! There’s going to

the elation

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

searching my face for any

my

tight embrace. The warmth of her hug only adds to

me.

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

she’s seeing

a playful tw inkle in his

in a hug, his lanky frame bending to accommodate mine. “Of course, you

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

change everything for us!”

every step of the way,” Ethan promises,

muted conversation

sound of a door swinging

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

the loud commotion we