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.”

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

more aware of

of what’s just transpired

gently shut the door and then, unable to

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

joy escapes my

validation of every sacrifice I’ve made, every late night

into this establishment. Winning

would be the realization of a

for the culinary arts.

name being spoken in the same breath as

the credibility—the

it’s the recognition. Every chef, every restaurateur

this? This is

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

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

overcame, was leading up

are high, yes. But the

burst into the bar area. Ethan and

their smiles. But all that is forgotten as I dramatically slam

the bar counter, grabbing

just happened in

The sheer excitement makes it difficult to

to an expression of curiosity

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

going to be a cook-off

the elation bubbling within

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

my face for any

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

a tight embrace. The warmth of her

me.

away but holding my

seeing me for the

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

hug, his lanky frame bending to accommodate mine. “Of course,

back, I add, “I’m going to need

change everything for us!”

the way,” Ethan promises, his tone sincere.

of clinking dishes and muted conversation from the kitchen is momentarily

sound of

clad in his bandana and

from the loud commotion we were