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,

more aware of the significance of this

the weight of what’s just transpired hits

I gently shut

back in my chair, covering my face

escapes

validation of every sacrifice I’ve

every ounce of passion I’ve poured into this establishment. Winning

realization of a dream, a testament to the love

for the culinary arts.

my restaurant’s name being spoken in the same

credibility—the

Every chef, every restaurateur dreams of being

their craft. And this? This

though

way of telling me that

overcame, was leading up

high, yes. But the

the bar area. Ethan and

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

on the bar counter,

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

makes it difficult to

curiosity while Chloe’s

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

gathering! There’s going to be a cook-off and

elation bubbling

surprise to pure shock. “Are

face for any sign

excitement. “Oh my Go d, Abby!”

tight embrace. The warmth of her hug

me.

gushes, pulling away but holding

as though she’s seeing me for

inkle in his

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

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

change everything for us!”

step of the way,” Ethan promises, his tone sincere.

of clinking dishes and muted conversation from the

the sound of

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

from the