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.”

eyes. “I’m counting on it.” With that, he rises, the action smooth and full

more aware of the significance of

he leaves, the weight of what’s just

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

excitement, lean back in my chair, covering my face with both hands. A

escapes my

validation of every sacrifice I’ve

every ounce of passion I’ve poured into this establishment. Winning this

than just garner business. It would be the realization of a dream, a testament to

for the culinary arts.

spoken in the same breath

the credibility—the implications

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

their craft. And this? This

is uncertain, even though

universe’s way

overcame, was leading

are high, yes. But the

me, I burst into the bar area. Ethan and Chloe

But all that is

on the bar counter, grabbing their

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

usual. The sheer excitement makes it difficult to control my

of curiosity while Chloe’s

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

going

the elation

pair’s expressions morph from surprise to pure shock. “Are you serious?” Ethan gasps, his

for

with shared excitement. “Oh my Go d, Abby!” She squeals,

her hug only adds to the fuzzy happiness

me.

of you!” she gushes, pulling away but holding my shoulders at arm’s length, looking

as though she’s seeing me for

in his eye. “Do I get a hug,

lanky frame bending to

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

change everything for us!”

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

cacophony of clinking dishes and muted conversation from the

the sound of a

in his bandana and t-shirt, striding

is furrowed, presumably from the loud commotion