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.”

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

all the more aware of the

weight of what’s just

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

chair, covering my face with

escapes my

opportunity. It’s a validation of every sacrifice I’ve

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

be the realization

for the culinary arts.

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

the credibility—the

the recognition. Every chef, every

And this? This is as

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

feels like the universe’s way of telling me that every challenge I faced,

was leading up

are high, yes. But the thrill?

bar area.

their smiles. But all that is

the bar

guys! You will not believe what just happened in my

The sheer excitement makes it difficult to control my

expression of curiosity

a breath, I recount my meeting

Alpha gathering! There’s going to be a

elation bubbling

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

searching my face for any

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

her hug only adds

me.

she gushes, pulling away but holding my shoulders

she’s seeing me for the

inkle in

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

“I’m going to need all hands on deck.

change everything for us!”

Ethan promises, his tone sincere. “Whatever you

muted conversation

the sound of a door swinging

I spot Karl, clad in his bandana and t-shirt, striding into the dining

furrowed, presumably from the loud commotion we