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.”

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

me all the more aware of the significance of this

of what’s

still. I gently shut

my chair, covering my face with both hands.

escapes my

just an opportunity. It’s a validation of every sacrifice I’ve made, every late

into this establishment. Winning this cook-off would

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

for the culinary arts.

in the same breath as the city’s

the credibility—the implications are

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

craft. And this? This is

ahead is uncertain, even though the competition will be

feels like the universe’s way of telling me that

overcame, was

yes. But the thrill? The thrill

burst into the bar area. Ethan and Chloe are engaged in

But all that

bar counter,

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

excitement makes it difficult to

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

breath, I recount my meeting with Calvin. “We’ve

Alpha gathering! There’s going to be

the elation bubbling within

from surprise to pure shock.

searching my face for any

“Oh my Go d, Abby!” She

The warmth of her hug only adds to

me.

so, so proud of you!” she gushes, pulling away

as though she’s seeing me for

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

lanky frame bending to accommodate mine. “Of

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

change everything for us!”

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

dishes and muted conversation from the kitchen

the sound of a

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

is furrowed, presumably from the loud