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.”

on it.” With that, he rises, the action smooth and

all the more

he leaves, the weight of what’s just transpired

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

back in my chair, covering my face with both hands.

joy escapes

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

into this establishment. Winning this

garner business. It would be the realization of a dream, a

for the culinary arts.

in the same breath as the

credibility—the implications are

that, it’s the recognition. Every

This is as big as

uncertain, even though the competition will be stiff, this

universe’s way of telling me that

overcame, was leading

yes. But the thrill? The thrill

burst into the bar area. Ethan and Chloe are engaged in

But all that is forgotten as I

the bar

will not believe what just happened in my

makes it difficult to

curiosity while Chloe’s eyes widen. “What is it,

meeting with Calvin. “We’ve been chosen

the Alpha gathering! There’s going to be a cook-off and everything!”

elation

pure shock. “Are you serious?”

for any sign

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

of her hug only

me.

gushes, pulling away but holding my shoulders at arm’s length,

though she’s seeing me for the first

a playful tw inkle in his eye. “Do I

in a hug, his lanky frame

“I’m going to need all hands

change everything for us!”

way,” Ethan promises,

and muted conversation from the kitchen is momentarily

of a door

clad in his

is furrowed, presumably from the