Chasing His Kickass Luna Back novel Chapter 232

“On it,” he responds, jogging toward the pantry. He returns a few moments later, and we swap places.

“Make sure to turn the duck and sear it evenly,” I call out as I begin to mix the ingredients together to make the dough. “Use the red wine for moisture. Yeah, just like that, perfect…”

…

When the buzzer blares, signaling the end of the round, I step back and take a look at my dish.

It’s beautiful—each element perfectly executed, just like I rehearsed a million times in my head. The plate practically glows under the stage lights, and I can’t help but feel a surge of pride course through my body.

The judges make their way around, forks poised, eyes narrowed in concentration. I watch as they reach Daniel’s station. He stands tall, his chin held high, as they taste her creation. My heart pounds in my chest, each thud echoing my mounting anxiety.

Finally, they come to my station.

“Hello, ladies and gentlemen,” I say, pushing my plate forward. “I hope you enjoy my rendition of duck pâté en croûte. I incorporated a hint of black pepper into the pastry, which I believe adds a savory kick in a subtle way.”

The first judge takes a bite and nods approvingly, her eyes meeting mine in a silent communication of respect. The second judge, too, gives a nod.

But then, there’s Logan—the Logan—chef extraordinaire and owner of some of the most renowned restaurants in the world. His gaze is piercing, almost disconcerting, as he takes a bite of my dish.

The seconds stretch out like hours as he chews slowly, deliberately, his face unreadable. And then, a small grimace. My blood runs cold.