#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 action smooth and

me all the more aware of

leaves, the weight of what’s

still. I gently shut the door and

face with both hands. A m uffled yell of

escapes my

a validation of every

into this establishment. Winning

It would be the realization of

for the culinary arts.

restaurant’s name being spoken in the same breath

credibility—the

the recognition. Every chef,

their craft. And this? This is

uncertain, even though the competition

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

overcame, was leading

yes. But

the bar

chat, judging by their smiles. But all that is forgotten as I dramatically

bar counter, grabbing

in my office!” I nearly

The sheer excitement makes it

to an expression of curiosity while

my meeting with Calvin. “We’ve been chosen as

There’s going

elation bubbling within

from surprise to pure shock. “Are you

my face for

excitement. “Oh my Go

her hug only adds to

me.

gushes, pulling away but holding my shoulders at

as though she’s seeing me for the first

tw inkle in his eye.

a hug, his lanky frame bending

his chest. Pulling back, I add, “I’m

change everything for us!”

way,” Ethan promises, his

dishes and muted conversation

of a

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

from the loud

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