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,

more aware of the significance

he leaves, the weight of what’s just

room suddenly feels too silent, too still. I gently shut the door and then, unable to

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

escapes my

more than just an opportunity. It’s a validation of

into this

would be the realization of

for the culinary arts.

restaurant’s name being spoken in

credibility—the implications are

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

craft. And this? This is as

the road ahead is uncertain, even though

universe’s way of telling

I overcame, was

are high, yes. But the

burst into the bar area. Ethan and Chloe

their smiles. But

on the bar

guys! You will not believe what just happened in my

makes it

expression of curiosity while Chloe’s eyes widen. “What is it,

recount my meeting with Calvin.

for the Alpha gathering! There’s going to be a

elation bubbling within

morph from surprise to pure shock. “Are you serious?” Ethan

searching my face for

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

embrace. The warmth of her hug only adds to the fuzzy happiness that

me.

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

she’s seeing me for

tw inkle in

I envelope him in a hug, his lanky frame bending

add, “I’m going

change everything for us!”

way,” Ethan promises, his tone sincere. “Whatever

dishes and muted conversation from the kitchen is momentarily

the sound of a door swinging

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

from the