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.”

“I’m counting on it.” With that, he

makes me all the more aware of the significance

the weight of what’s just transpired

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

lean back in my chair, covering my face with both hands.

joy escapes

more than just an opportunity. It’s a validation of every sacrifice I’ve made, every late

poured into this establishment.

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

for the culinary arts.

being spoken in the same breath as the city’s elites, the

credibility—the

recognition. Every chef,

this? This is as

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

the universe’s way of telling me that every challenge I

I overcame, was leading

high, yes. But the thrill?

I burst into the bar area. Ethan and

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

bar

in my office!” I nearly shout,

than usual. The sheer excitement makes it

curiosity while Chloe’s eyes widen. “What

recount my meeting with Calvin. “We’ve

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

the elation

pair’s expressions morph from surprise to pure shock. “Are you serious?”

searching my face for any

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

of her hug only adds to the fuzzy happiness

me.

you!” she gushes, pulling away

as though she’s seeing me for the first

tw inkle in his eye. “Do I

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

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

change everything for us!”

of the way,” Ethan promises, his

dishes and muted conversation from the

sound of

eye, I spot Karl, clad in his

presumably from the loud