Chasing His Kickass Luna Back by Jane Above Story

#Chapter 41: Sparks Fly
Abby

Pushing the restaurant’s door open, I’m immediately enveloped by the scent of fresh bread and

brewing coffee.

The day beckons, promising a hustle that I’m both dreading and anticipating. Each wooden table is

adorned with a fresh bunch of flowers, the gentle hum of the morning preparations playing softly in the

background.

“Morning, Abby!” Jake, my ever-efficient waiter, calls out, balancing a tray of fresh pastries on his palm.

His smile reaches his eyes, but there’s an underlying tension behind his gaze. Word travels fast, and

I’m sure the staff knows about the disaster that was last night.

From behind the bar, Chloe shoots me a sheepish grin. I narrow my eyes at her, knowing that she likely

blabbed to someone, but I can’t stay mad at her.

“Hey, Jake,” I reply, forcing brightness into my voice, trying to shake off the remnants of sleep and the

emotional hangover.

Daisy joins Jake, her apron already smudged with the morning’s work. “Need a coffee?” she asks, a

knowing glint in her eyes.

“Wouldn’t say no to that,” I respond with a weary chuckle.

She swiftly moves to the espresso machine, her hands practiced and sure, and within moments I’m

cradling a warm cup of comfort. The aroma alone gives me the pick-me-up I desperately need.

“Thanks, Daisy. Oh, and get a new apron from the back before customers start coming, alright?”

“Sure thing, boss!”

The warmth of my office is a welcome reprieve from the bustling chaos of the restaurant. I step inside,

immediately relishing the sense of solitude it offers.

My small haven is dimly lit, decorated with tasteful artwork and an impressive array of certificates that

vouch for my culinary skills. Yet, right now, they feel like mere props to a play that’s become all too real.

Sliding the door shut, I exhale a long, deep sigh. My feet carry me to the plush leather chair behind my

oak desk. As I sink into it, every muscle in my body seems to let go of the tension it’s been holding

onto. My temples throb, a painful reminder of the tears and restless tossing of the previous night.

Yet, there’s a silver lining to my gloomy clouds. My restaurant. My sanctuary.

windows filter in a golden hue, casting warm patches

The melodious chatter of customers combines with the clink of cutlery,

ambiance that’s both lively and

fills the restaurant

famous blueberry pancakes or a

retrieve a stack of paperwork—invoices,

one ever romanticizes, but there’s a comfort in the routine of

I check, it’s all a testament to the world I’ve built brick

knock interrupts my thoughts. My gaze flickers

ajar door. A touch of annoyance bubbles up; I was in no mood for interruptions. And

him in the eyes, no matter how beautiful and chocolatey they

coffee cup in his hand. “Can I

gesture towards the chair opposite me. “Do you need

a slight smile, he places the coffee on my

glance at my almost full coffee mug, then back at him, a teasing smirk playing

all set, but thanks.”

twi nkle, a silent acknowledgment of

check on you after last

I don’t want to talk about it. Hell,

about it.

unexpectedly sweet in Karl’s gesture. His concern feels

others have been throwing my

Karl,” I lie, managing a faint smile. “Just another bump

But if you

rant, I’m here.”

chuckle from me. “Thanks. I’ll keep that

if weighing his words.

off. “Let’s not, okay? I appreciate the concern, but I’d

brunch crowd

knowing smile. “Alright, boss lady. Let’s

…

face drawn and pale. “Abby,

fever.”

heart sinks. John being out on what promises to be one of our busiest

nightmare. “Is he okay?”

but he didn’t look good. Said he’s

something. He’ll probably be out for

of my other line cooks, overhears, his face mirroring my concern. “What’re we

We’re fully booked tonight.”

deep breath. “We

when I spot Karl in the corner,

his task, but he’s the only other pair

“Karl!”

jerks up, eyes scanning the kitchen

kitchen,” I state, my tone allowing no room

around, as if hoping to find an escape

clarify. “You can

almost warily. “Sure, but are you sure about

reply with

the bandana he’s