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.”

With that, he rises, the action smooth and full of a

the more aware of the significance of

leaves, the weight of

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

excitement, lean back in my chair, covering my face with

escapes

just an opportunity. It’s a validation

poured into this establishment. Winning this

be the realization of

for the culinary arts.

restaurant’s name being spoken in

the credibility—the implications are

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

This is as big as it

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

universe’s way of telling me that

I overcame, was leading up to

But the thrill? The thrill is

the bar area. Ethan and Chloe

chat, judging by their smiles. But all

the bar counter, grabbing

not believe what just happened in my office!”

The sheer excitement makes it

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

my meeting with Calvin. “We’ve been chosen as one

going to be a cook-off and everything!” I

the elation

pair’s expressions morph from surprise to pure

face for any sign of

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

her hug only adds to

me.

away but holding my shoulders at arm’s length,

she’s seeing me for the

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

I envelope him in a hug, his lanky frame bending to

back, I add, “I’m

change everything for us!”

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

and muted

of

I spot Karl, clad in his bandana

furrowed, presumably from the loud commotion we