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.”

With that, he rises, the action smooth and full of

all the more aware of the significance

of what’s just transpired hits

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

face with both hands. A m uffled

joy escapes my

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

passion I’ve poured into this establishment. Winning

realization of a dream, a testament to the love I

for the culinary arts.

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

the credibility—the

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

their craft. And this? This is as big as it

uncertain, even though the competition will

like the universe’s way of

I overcame, was leading up

are high, yes. But the thrill?

I burst into the bar area. Ethan and Chloe are engaged in

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

the bar

in my office!” I nearly

The sheer excitement makes it difficult to control my

grin fades to an expression of curiosity while Chloe’s eyes

my meeting with Calvin. “We’ve been chosen

gathering! There’s going

the elation bubbling

expressions morph from surprise to pure shock. “Are you serious?” Ethan

searching my face for

sparkle with shared excitement. “Oh my Go

The warmth of her hug only adds to the fuzzy

me.

proud of you!” she gushes, pulling away but holding

though she’s seeing

playful tw inkle in his eye. “Do I get a hug,

his lanky frame bending

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

change everything for us!”

way,” Ethan promises, his tone sincere.

muted conversation from

the sound of a door swinging

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

from the loud commotion we