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.”

it.” With that, he rises,

makes me all the more

the weight of what’s just transpired hits

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

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

escapes

a validation of every sacrifice I’ve made, every late night

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

realization of a dream, a testament to

for the culinary arts.

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

credibility—the

recognition. Every chef, every restaurateur dreams

this? This

ahead is uncertain, even though the competition will be

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

overcame, was leading up

yes. But the thrill? The thrill

through me, I burst into the bar area. Ethan

But all that is

on the bar counter,

happened in my office!” I nearly shout, my

makes it difficult to control my

grin fades to an expression of curiosity while

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

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

elation

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

searching my face for any sign of

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

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

me.

you!” she gushes, pulling away but holding my

as though she’s seeing me

tw inkle in

his lanky frame bending to accommodate mine. “Of

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

change everything for us!”

the way,” Ethan promises, his

of clinking dishes and muted conversation

of a door

I spot Karl, clad in his

furrowed, presumably from the loud commotion we