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

me all the more aware

leaves, the weight of what’s just

room suddenly feels too silent, too still. I gently shut the

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

escapes my

just an opportunity. It’s a validation of every sacrifice I’ve made, every late night

I’ve poured into this establishment. Winning

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

for the culinary arts.

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

credibility—the implications

the recognition. Every chef, every restaurateur dreams of being

this? This

even though the

It feels like the universe’s way of telling me

overcame, was leading up

yes. But the thrill? The thrill

into the bar area. Ethan

their smiles. But all that

on the bar counter, grabbing their

what just happened in my office!” I nearly

sheer excitement makes it difficult to control

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

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

for the Alpha gathering! There’s going

elation bubbling

pure shock. “Are you serious?”

my face for any sign

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

tight embrace. The warmth of her hug only adds

me.

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

as though she’s seeing me for the

throat, a playful tw inkle in

his lanky frame bending to accommodate mine. “Of course,

add, “I’m going to need all hands

change everything for us!”

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

and muted

sound of a

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

presumably from the loud commotion