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.”

counting on it.” With that, he rises, the action smooth and full of

all the more aware of the significance of this

weight of what’s just transpired

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

my chair, covering my face with both hands. A

joy escapes

It’s a validation of every sacrifice I’ve

of passion I’ve poured into this establishment. Winning

would be the realization of a

for the culinary arts.

idea of my restaurant’s name being spoken in the

credibility—the

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

This is as big as it

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

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

was leading up to

are high, yes. But

I burst into the bar

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

the bar counter, grabbing their

what just happened in my office!” I nearly shout, my voice an

The sheer excitement makes

expression of curiosity while Chloe’s eyes widen. “What

pausing for a breath, I recount my meeting with Calvin. “We’ve been chosen as one

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

the elation bubbling within

expressions morph from surprise to pure shock.

my face for any sign of

excitement. “Oh my Go d,

me in a tight embrace. The warmth of her

me.

so proud of you!” she gushes, pulling away but holding my shoulders at

though she’s seeing me for the first

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

lanky

chest. Pulling back, I add, “I’m going

change everything for us!”

the way,” Ethan

of clinking dishes and muted conversation from the

sound of a

the corner of my eye, I spot Karl, clad in his bandana and t-shirt, striding into

is furrowed, presumably from the loud commotion we were