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.”

glint appears in his eyes. “I’m counting on it.” With that, he rises, the action

all the more aware of the significance of this

leaves, the weight of

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

face with both hands. A

escapes

validation of every sacrifice I’ve made, every late

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

would be the realization of a dream, a

for the culinary arts.

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

credibility—the implications

it’s the recognition. Every chef, every

craft. And this? This is as big as

even though

universe’s way of telling

was leading up to

yes. But the thrill? The

into the bar area. Ethan and

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

the bar counter, grabbing

just happened in my office!” I nearly shout,

The sheer excitement makes it

of curiosity while Chloe’s eyes

meeting with Calvin. “We’ve been

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

the elation bubbling within

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

for any

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

her hug only adds to

me.

of you!” she gushes, pulling away but holding

as though she’s seeing

throat, a playful tw inkle in his eye. “Do

I envelope him in a hug, his lanky frame bending

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

change everything for us!”

step of the way,” Ethan promises, his tone

muted conversation from the kitchen is

sound of

the corner of my eye, I spot Karl, clad in his bandana and

furrowed, presumably from the loud commotion we were