Chasing His Kickass Luna Back novel Chapter 197

I can feel the knot in my chest loosening, the heavy weight of the day’s events lifting ever so slightly. “You guys are amazing.”

Then, my eyes meet Karl’s. He’s carrying a loaf of what smells like very fresh bread and a wheel of cheese stolen from the pantry at the restaurant, and there’s a soft, apologetic look in his eyes. We stare at each other for a few moments, and my heart does a flip. I can feel the heat rising into my cheeks and I have to quickly look away before he notices.

Suddenly, Chloe’s voice breaks through my reverie.

“Let’s get this party started!” she says, turning up the music.

Soon, we’re all a little tipsy, swaying to the beat of a Spotify playlist that Daisy insisted was the “Ultimate Cleaning Mix.” I find myself moving my hips while scrubbing the walls, and I look over to see John and Ethan attempting the moonwalk with mops.

“We’re setting a new standard for house parties!” Ethan shouts over the music, and we all burst into laughter.

Despite everything that happened, my chest feels a little lighter. I couldn’t have asked for better friends.

I slip into the pantry to grab more trash bags, momentarily stepping out of the haze of laughter and chatter. It’s quiet in here, the stillness giving space for the reality of the situation to creep back in. Who could’ve done this to me? I shudder at the thought.

Just then, Karl steps in. “Hey, you okay?” he asks, his eyes searching mine.

“I’m fine,” I reply, although my voice is a bit wobbly. “Just a little shaken, you know? Wondering who could’ve set fire to my apartment.”

Karl suddenly takes my hand. My heart pounds in my chest and I slowly lift my gaze to meet his. His cheeks are flushed, probably from the booze, but his voice is low and a little husky. “Abby, we’ll find whoever did this to you. I promise.”

I chuckle. “Thanks, Karl. But the police have it under control.”

“Still,” he says quietly, drawing just a little closer. “Whatever you need, I’m here. I…”

“Karl…”