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

that makes me all the more

leaves, the weight of what’s just transpired

gently shut the door and then, unable to contain

covering my face with both hands.

escapes

opportunity. It’s a validation of every sacrifice

I’ve poured into this establishment. Winning this cook-off

be the realization of a dream, a testament

for the culinary arts.

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

credibility—the implications

Every chef,

And this? This is as big as

is uncertain, even though the competition

golden. It feels like the universe’s way of telling me

I overcame, was leading up to

high, yes. But

pumping through me, I burst into the bar area. Ethan and Chloe are engaged in what

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

the bar counter,

in my

excitement makes it difficult

fades to an expression of curiosity while Chloe’s

recount my meeting with

for the Alpha gathering! There’s going to be a cook-off

the elation bubbling within

morph from surprise to pure shock. “Are

for any

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

The warmth of her hug only adds

me.

away but

as though she’s seeing me for the

tw inkle in his eye. “Do I get

a hug, his lanky frame bending

I add, “I’m

change everything for us!”

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

dishes and muted conversation

sound of a

I spot Karl, clad in his bandana and t-shirt, striding

is furrowed, presumably from the