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.”

his eyes. “I’m counting on it.” With that, he rises, the action smooth and full of a

makes me all the more aware of

leaves, the weight of what’s just transpired

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

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

escapes

It’s a validation of every sacrifice

of passion I’ve poured into this establishment.

than just garner business. It would be the realization of a dream, a testament to

for the culinary arts.

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

credibility—the implications

it’s the recognition. Every chef,

And this? This is as big

road ahead is uncertain, even though the competition

way of telling me that every challenge I faced,

overcame, was leading up

yes. But

bar area. Ethan and Chloe are

an amusing chat, judging by their smiles. But all that

bar counter, grabbing

guys! You will not believe what just happened in

excitement makes it

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

for a breath, I recount my meeting with Calvin. “We’ve

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

the elation bubbling

pair’s expressions morph from surprise to pure shock. “Are you serious?” Ethan gasps,

my face for any sign of

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

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

me.

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

though she’s seeing me for the first

clears his throat, a playful tw inkle in

a hug, his lanky frame bending to accommodate mine. “Of

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

change everything for us!”

step of the way,” Ethan promises, his tone sincere.

cacophony of clinking dishes and muted conversation

the sound of

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

is furrowed, presumably from the loud commotion we