Chasing His Kickass Luna Back novel Chapter 181

Abby

I walk into my restaurant the next morning, the scent of fresh coffee and baked bread filling the air. The morning sun casts long beams of light through the windows, but the atmosphere inside feels oddly electric, tense yet filled with a strange and unexpected kind of exhilaration.

It’s the day after last night’s events, and I’m running on a blend of excitement and worry, my thoughts a toss-up between optimism and that gnawing feeling in the pit of my stomach.

Did I make a mistake with Anton? Was it all an elaborate con for free food and a hotel room, or perhaps even a bizarre dream? Most importantly, what if he never actually shows?

As I head toward the kitchen, though, it quickly becomes apparent that something is off. My staff are gathered around the kitchen door, oohing, aahing, and giggling at something going on inside.

“Ethan, what’s going on?” I ask as I see my restaurant manager limping his way towards me, his face a mixture of concern and bewilderment.

“Abby, who is this strange French man you’ve brought into the kitchen? The staff are all worked up,” Ethan mutters, leaning against the counter and rubbing his forehead as if trying to make sense of it all.

My eyes light up, my heart racing at the realization. “Yes, Ethan, that’s Anton. He’s our new temporary hire. A trial run to see how he fits in. Maybe he’ll stay for good.”

Ethan gives me a wary look but doesn’t press further. He knows me too well to question my instincts outright, at least not until we’re in hot water.

Brushing past Ethan, I make my way through the maze of excited staff. I reach the kitchen doors and push them open, and that’s when the tantalizing aroma of something sweet and creamy fills my senses.

And then I hear it—laughter. Real, genuine laughter echoing through the air, and I can’t help but smile.

“Ah, John, I told you, if your batter has more lumps than a teenager’s face, your cheesecake will turn out as uneven as a poorly laid tile floor.”

There it is. Anton’s thick French accent, which sounds even more delightful in the light of day.

John’s almost abrasive laughter booms across the room. “Anton, you have a way with words, man. But watch me—this will be the best damn cheesecake you’ve ever seen!”