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

me all the more aware of the significance

he leaves, the weight of what’s just

gently

lean back in my chair, covering my face with

joy escapes

a validation of every sacrifice I’ve made,

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

the realization of a dream, a testament

for the culinary arts.

my restaurant’s name being spoken in

the credibility—the implications

more than that, it’s the recognition. Every

And this? This is as

even though the competition will be stiff,

way of telling

overcame, was leading up

are high, yes. But the

bar area. Ethan and

be an amusing chat, judging by their smiles. But all that is forgotten as

bar counter, grabbing

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

The sheer excitement makes it difficult

curiosity while Chloe’s eyes widen.

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

There’s going

the elation bubbling

to pure shock.

for any

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

The warmth of her hug only adds to the fuzzy

me.

she gushes, pulling away but holding my shoulders at arm’s length,

though she’s seeing me for the first

tw inkle in his eye.

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

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

change everything for us!”

you every step of the way,” Ethan promises, his tone

of clinking dishes and muted conversation from the kitchen

the sound of a

of my eye, I spot Karl, clad in his bandana and t-shirt, striding

furrowed, presumably from the loud commotion we were