#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 rises,

all the more

leaves, the weight of what’s just transpired

still. I gently shut the

lean back in my chair, covering my face with both hands. A m uffled yell

escapes

than just an opportunity. It’s a validation of

into this establishment.

the realization of a dream, a testament to the love

for the culinary arts.

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

the credibility—the implications are

recognition. Every chef,

craft. And this? This

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

way

I overcame, was

high, yes. But the thrill?

bar area. Ethan and

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

on the bar

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

sheer excitement makes it difficult

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

I recount my meeting with Calvin. “We’ve been

gathering! There’s going to be

elation bubbling within

to pure shock. “Are you

my face for any

my Go

in a tight embrace. The warmth of her hug only adds to the fuzzy happiness

me.

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

as though she’s seeing me for

in his eye. “Do I get a hug,

hug, his lanky frame bending

his chest. Pulling back, I add, “I’m

change everything for us!”

every step of the way,” Ethan

cacophony of clinking dishes and muted

sound of a door swinging

in his bandana and t-shirt, striding into

presumably from the loud

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