Chasing His Kickass Luna Back novel Chapter 131

Abby

I’m seated on a lounge chair in the back lawn, soaking in the sun and the chirping of birds as a soothing backdrop. The air smells of freshly cut grass, and I’m surrounded by the vibrant colors of the garden—reds, yellows, and blues.. It’s peaceful, almost idyllic, but my mind is elsewhere.

I keep thinking about Karl’s words yesterday, how he never made an official announcement about my fidelity. All morning, I’ve been getting strange looks from members of the staff—aside from Elsie, who has never been anything but pleasant.

Part of me wants to announce it myself to set the record straight, but something tells me that most of the staff who are unabashedly loyal to Karl wouldn’t believe me. And besides, he should do it himself. He should be the one who admits to his shortcomings, not me.

Suddenly, my phone rings, breaking me out of my reverie. I glance down and let out a soft sigh. Ethan’s name is flashing on the screen.

“Hey Ethan, what’s up?” I answer, my voice casual, but inside I’m wondering if something went wrong after all. Perhaps the restaurant went up in flames, or that food critic came back for another bad experience, or the place got robbed. Maybe all three.

“Abby, sorry to bother you on your time off. Quick question—how would you like us to handle the supplier transition for next week? The new seafood vendor is offering different terms.”

I open my mouth to dive into a detailed explanation, logistics dancing at the forefront of my mind, when I remember Karl’s words about taking time off. A moment of conflict grips me, but I decide to heed his advice.

“Um, go ahead and negotiate the best terms possible but keep it in line with our usual arrangements. And if you could, save any future questions for when I’m back. I’m supposed to be taking a break.”

“Ah, right. I apologize for interrupting your vacation. Where’d you wind up going anyway, if you don’t mind me asking?”

“I’m… visiting family,” I lie smoothly, guilt settling somewhere in my stomach. I can’t tell Ethan—or anyone, for that matter—that I’m visiting my old home with my ex-husband.

Just then, the phone rustles, and a new voice bursts through. “Abby! It’s Chloe. Are you with Karl?”

My cheeks flush involuntarily at her abrupt, and astute, question. “Chloe, what—”

“Cut the crap. You and Karl taking time off simultaneously? Very suspicious, Abby.”