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.”

on it.” With that,

that makes me all the more aware of the

the weight of what’s

room suddenly feels too silent, too still. I gently shut the door and

my chair, covering my face with

joy escapes my

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

passion I’ve poured into

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

for the culinary arts.

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

credibility—the implications are

recognition. Every chef, every restaurateur

And this? This is as big as it

though the competition will be stiff,

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

was leading

are high, yes. But the thrill? The thrill

I burst into the bar area. Ethan and Chloe are

But

bar counter, grabbing

in my office!” I nearly shout, my voice

excitement makes it difficult to

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

meeting with Calvin. “We’ve been chosen as

Alpha gathering! There’s going to

elation

to pure shock. “Are

searching my face for any

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

her

me.

proud of you!” she gushes, pulling away but holding my shoulders at arm’s length,

as though she’s seeing me for

playful tw inkle in his eye. “Do

envelope him in a hug, his lanky

chest. Pulling back, I add, “I’m going to need all hands on deck.

change everything for us!”

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

cacophony of clinking dishes and muted

the sound of a

eye, I spot Karl, clad in his

the