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.”

it.” With that, he rises, the action smooth and full

the more aware

leaves, the weight of what’s

too still. I gently

covering my face with both hands.

escapes

It’s a validation of every sacrifice

ounce of passion I’ve poured into this establishment. Winning this cook-off would

business. It would be the realization of a dream, a testament to the

for the culinary arts.

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

the credibility—the

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

And this? This is as

uncertain, even though the competition will be stiff,

universe’s way

I overcame, was leading up to

But the thrill? The

through me, I burst into the bar

chat, judging by their smiles. But all that is

the bar

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

The sheer excitement makes it difficult

fades to an expression of curiosity while Chloe’s

for a breath, I recount my meeting

cater for the Alpha gathering! There’s going to be

elation

pure

searching my face for any

excitement. “Oh my Go d, Abby!”

The warmth of her hug

me.

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

though she’s seeing me

tw inkle in his eye. “Do I get a

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

“I’m going to need all

change everything for us!”

Ethan promises, his

muted

sound of a

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

furrowed, presumably from the loud commotion we were