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.”

counting on it.” With that, he rises, the action smooth and full of a

the more aware

the weight of what’s just transpired

too still. I gently shut the door and then,

back in my chair, covering my face

joy escapes

It’s a validation of every sacrifice I’ve made, every late

of passion I’ve poured into this establishment. Winning

would be the realization of a dream, a testament to the love

for the culinary arts.

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

the credibility—the

it’s the recognition. Every chef, every

This

is uncertain, even though the competition will be stiff, this

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

overcame, was leading up

are high, yes. But the

pumping through me, I burst into the bar area. Ethan and Chloe

judging by their smiles. But all that is forgotten as I dramatically slam

on the bar counter, grabbing their

will not believe what just happened in my

excitement makes it difficult to control

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

meeting with Calvin. “We’ve been chosen as one of

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

the elation bubbling

pair’s expressions morph from surprise to pure shock. “Are you

my face for any sign

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

a tight embrace. The warmth of her hug

me.

of you!” she gushes, pulling away but holding my shoulders at arm’s length,

though she’s seeing me

throat, a playful tw inkle in his eye. “Do I get a hug,

his lanky frame bending to accommodate

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

change everything for us!”

Ethan

clinking dishes and muted conversation from

of

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

the loud commotion we were