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.”

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

the more aware of the significance

he leaves, the weight of what’s just transpired hits

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

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

joy escapes

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

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

It would be the realization of a dream, a testament to the love

for the culinary arts.

my restaurant’s name being spoken in the same breath as

the credibility—the implications

the recognition. Every chef, every restaurateur dreams

craft. And this? This is as big

though the competition will be stiff,

universe’s way of telling me that every

was leading up to

stakes are high, yes. But

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

their smiles. But all that is forgotten as I

on the bar counter, grabbing their

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

usual. The sheer excitement makes it difficult

grin fades to an expression of curiosity while Chloe’s eyes widen. “What is it,

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

There’s going to be a cook-off and everything!”

elation

surprise to pure shock. “Are you serious?” Ethan gasps, his

my face for any sign

with shared excitement. “Oh my

in a tight embrace. The warmth of her hug

me.

of you!” she gushes, pulling away but holding my shoulders

though she’s seeing me for the first

his throat, a playful tw inkle in

a hug, his lanky frame bending

Pulling back, I add, “I’m going to need all hands

change everything for us!”

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

cacophony of clinking dishes and muted conversation from the kitchen is momentarily

the sound of a door

eye, I spot Karl, clad in

is furrowed, presumably from the loud commotion we