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.”

With that, he rises,

that makes me all the more aware of the

of

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

in my chair, covering my face with

escapes my

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

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

garner business. It would be the realization of a

for the culinary arts.

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

the credibility—the

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

And this? This is as big as it

road ahead is uncertain, even though the

It feels like the universe’s way of telling me that every challenge

overcame, was leading

high, yes. But the

I burst into the bar area. Ethan

by their smiles. But all that is forgotten

the bar counter, grabbing their

happened in my office!” I nearly shout,

than usual. The sheer excitement makes it difficult to control

grin fades to an expression of curiosity

my meeting with Calvin. “We’ve been chosen as

the Alpha gathering! There’s going to be a cook-off and

elation bubbling within

to pure shock.

my face for any sign

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

in a tight embrace. The warmth of her hug only

me.

so, so proud of you!” she gushes, pulling away but holding my shoulders

seeing me

in

I envelope him in a hug, his lanky frame

back, I add, “I’m

change everything for us!”

every step of the way,” Ethan promises, his

dishes and muted conversation from the kitchen

sound of a door swinging

Karl, clad in his bandana and t-shirt, striding into

presumably from the loud commotion we