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, he rises, the action smooth

the more aware of

of what’s

I gently shut the door and then, unable

in my chair, covering my face with both hands. A m uffled yell of

escapes

just an opportunity. It’s a validation of every

into this establishment.

It would be the realization of a dream,

for the culinary arts.

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

the credibility—the implications are

it’s the recognition. Every chef, every

craft. And this? This is as big

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

the universe’s way of

I overcame, was leading up

stakes are high, yes. But the thrill? The thrill

burst into the bar area. Ethan and

their smiles. But all that

bar

in my

usual. The sheer excitement makes

of curiosity while Chloe’s eyes widen. “What

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

to cater for the Alpha gathering! There’s going to be a cook-off and everything!” I

the elation

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

searching my face for any sign

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

of her hug only adds to the

me.

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

as though she’s seeing me for the

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

in a hug, his lanky frame

“I’m

change everything for us!”

the way,” Ethan

and muted conversation from

of a door

corner of my eye, I spot Karl, clad in his

furrowed, presumably from the loud commotion we