Chasing His Kickass Luna Back novel Chapter 54

Abby

“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.”

A glint appears in his eyes. “I’m counting on it.” With that, he rises, the action smooth and full of a quiet grace that makes me all the more aware of the significance of this meeting.

After he leaves, the weight of what’s just transpired hits me.

The room suddenly feels too silent, too still. I gently shut the door and then, unable to contain the surge of excitement, lean back in my chair, covering my face with both hands. A muffled yell of pure, unadulterated joy escapes my lips.

It’s more than just an opportunity. It’s a validation of every sacrifice I’ve made, every late night I’ve endured, every ounce of passion I’ve poured into this establishment. Winning this cook-off would do more than just garner business. It would be the realization of a dream, a testament to the love I have for the culinary arts.

The idea of my restaurant’s name being spoken in the same breath as the city’s elites, the increased footfall, the credibility—the implications are heady.

But more than that, it’s the recognition. Every chef, every restaurateur dreams of being acknowledged for their craft. And this? This is as big as it gets.

Even though the road ahead is uncertain, even though the competition will be stiff, this moment, this opportunity feels golden. It feels like the universe’s way of telling me that every challenge I faced, every hurdle I overcame, was leading up to this.

The stakes are high, yes. But the thrill? The thrill is unparalleled.

Adrenaline pumping through me, I burst into the bar area. Ethan and Chloe are engaged in what looks to be an amusing chat, judging by their smiles. But all that is forgotten as I dramatically slam both hands on the bar counter, grabbing their attention.

“You guys! You will not believe what just happened in my office!” I nearly shout, my voice an octave higher than usual. The sheer excitement makes it difficult to control my volume.

Ethan’s grin fades to an expression of curiosity while Chloe’s eyes widen. “What is it, Abby?”

Without pausing for a breath, I recount my meeting with Calvin. “We’ve been chosen as one of the finalists to cater for the Alpha gathering! There’s going to be a cook-off and everything!” I can barely contain the elation bubbling within me.