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

all the more aware of the significance of

weight of what’s just

too still. I gently shut the door

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

escapes

validation of every sacrifice I’ve

of passion I’ve poured into this establishment. Winning this

It would be the realization of a

for the culinary arts.

my restaurant’s name being spoken in the

the credibility—the

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

craft. And this? This

even though the competition will be

feels like the universe’s way of telling me that

overcame, was leading up to

are high, yes. But

me, I burst into the bar area. Ethan and

smiles. But all that is forgotten as

the bar counter,

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

makes it difficult

grin fades to an expression of curiosity

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

There’s going

the elation

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

for any sign of

my Go d, Abby!” She squeals, wrapping

warmth of her hug only adds to

me.

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

she’s seeing me for

clears his throat, a playful tw inkle in his

lanky frame bending to accommodate mine.

chest. Pulling back, I add, “I’m

change everything for us!”

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

and muted conversation from the kitchen is

of

Karl, clad in his bandana and t-shirt, striding into

is furrowed, presumably from the