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.”

“I’m counting on it.” With

the more aware of the significance of

he leaves, the weight of what’s just

I gently shut the door and then,

my face with both hands. A m uffled

joy escapes

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

poured into

business. It would be the realization of a dream,

for the culinary arts.

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

the credibility—the implications are

more than that, it’s the recognition. Every chef, every restaurateur

this? This is as big

even though the

way of telling me that

was

high, yes. But the

burst into the bar

smiles. But all that is forgotten as I

on the bar counter,

You will not believe what just happened in my office!” I nearly shout,

than usual. The sheer excitement makes it difficult to control

grin fades to an expression of curiosity while Chloe’s eyes widen. “What

a breath, I recount my meeting with

the Alpha gathering! There’s going to be a

the elation

pure shock. “Are you

searching my face for any sign of

with shared excitement. “Oh my

me in a tight embrace. The warmth of her hug only adds

me.

you!” she gushes, pulling away

though she’s seeing me

inkle in his eye. “Do I

hug, his lanky frame bending

mumble against his chest. Pulling back, I add, “I’m going to need all

change everything for us!”

Ethan promises, his tone

of clinking dishes and muted conversation from the

of a door

my eye, I spot Karl, clad in his bandana and

from the loud commotion