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,

that makes me all the more aware of the

weight of what’s just

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

my chair, covering my face with both hands. A m

escapes my

opportunity. It’s a validation of every sacrifice I’ve

poured into this establishment. Winning this

would be the realization of a dream, a testament to

for the culinary arts.

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

credibility—the implications are

it’s the recognition. Every

And this? This is as big

ahead is uncertain, even though the competition

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

was leading

stakes are high, yes. But the thrill? The

bar area. Ethan and Chloe are

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

on the bar counter,

not believe what just happened in my office!” I

than usual. The sheer excitement makes

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

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

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

elation bubbling

morph from surprise to pure shock. “Are

for

shared excitement. “Oh my

tight embrace. The warmth of her

me.

of you!” she gushes, pulling away but

as though she’s seeing

inkle in his

his lanky frame bending to accommodate

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

change everything for us!”

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

and muted conversation from the kitchen

the sound of

in

the loud commotion