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 rises, the action smooth and full

the more aware of the significance

leaves, the weight of what’s just

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

my chair, covering my face with

joy escapes my

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

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

be the realization of a dream, a testament to the

for the culinary arts.

spoken in

the credibility—the implications

Every chef, every restaurateur dreams of

This is as big as

though the road ahead is uncertain, even though the competition will be

feels like the universe’s way of telling me that

I overcame, was

But the thrill? The thrill

bar area.

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

on the bar counter,

what just happened in my

excitement makes it difficult

curiosity while Chloe’s eyes widen. “What is it,

a breath, I recount my meeting with Calvin. “We’ve

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

the elation bubbling within

pair’s expressions morph from surprise to pure

my face for

“Oh my Go d, Abby!” She squeals, wrapping

tight embrace. The warmth of her hug only adds to the fuzzy happiness

me.

gushes, pulling away but

seeing me for

tw inkle in his eye. “Do I get

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

Pulling back, I add, “I’m going

change everything for us!”

with you every step of the way,” Ethan promises, his tone sincere. “Whatever you need,

clinking dishes and muted conversation

of

spot Karl, clad in his

from the loud commotion