Chasing His Kickass Luna Back by Jane Above Story

#Chapter 81: Home
Abby

The scent of mahogany and bergamot fills the air as I step into the room that was once mine—our

room, really.

I feel so drawn to the familiarity of it all; the embroidered curtains, the chestnut armoire that I remember

picking out myself, and the plush rug that used to cu shion my bare feet in the mornings. Every little

detail is still the same, just as I remember it. It’s uncanny, really.

My fingers trace the intricate patterns on the upholstery of the armchair near the window. It’s a bit

surreal, being back in this space. I mean, this was my sanctuary once. Our sanctuary. But now, it’s

filled with… bittersweet memories. Maybe more bitter than sweet.

I move to the dresser next. That’s when I see it: a photo of us, still sitting exactly where it used to be on

top of the dresser—Karl and I laughing at something, looking so young, so naive. My eyes widen

slightly as I gently pick it up. Did he have this picture up all this time?

As I hold the picture, something stirs in me. Tears begin to p rick the backs of my eyes, and I have to set

the frame back down with a ragged breath, laying the photo flat so I don’t need to look at it. Suddenly, it

feels all too stuffy in here, and I need to get out for a bit.

I make my way down the winding staircase and out through the large foyer, by pas sing the glances of a

few household staff. When I reach the back patio, I take a deep breath, as if I can finally breathe again.

Then, pushing open the door, I step into the garden, a sanctuary that I used to escape to when the

weight of the world felt unbearable.

The colors and smells envelop me instantly, filling my senses with a mix of nostalgia and tranquility.

Rows of roses, lavender, and daisies stretch out in front of me like an artist’s vivid canvas. I walk past a

bunch of lilies, their heads tilted towards the sun, and reach the jasmine vine that was always my

favorite. Leaning in, I take a deep sniff. Its scent is as intoxicating as I remember.

For a moment, I feel free from the memories and the speculation that my return is no doubt generating.

But then, feeling as though someone is watching me, I look up instinctively toward the mansion.

Overhead in a window, that’s where I see Gerald, the butler, staring at me through one of the back

windows.

but his eyes, they hold a certain…bewilderment? Or

moment our gazes meet, he abruptly steps away from the window

creeps over my skin, a mix of embarrassment and curiosity. It

the garden, the ex-Luna now an unexpected visitor in

believe that I cheated on Karl

shake my head, trying to dispel the uneasy feeling that settles in my gut.

doubt Karl made a big announcement about my return. I

theory about

time to go back inside, I take one last look

make my way back towards the house. Just as I reach the

the maids I had always been

eyes light up, and before I know it, I’m wrapped in a warm,

see you,” I murmur, returning the hug

exclaims, pulling back to look at me. “Is life outside treating

well as

before she finally asks the question that

Her words trail off, but

cheeks flush a deep red. “No, no, nothing like that,” I assure

to visit, that’s all.”

instantly regret my choice

really nice to have you back, even if it’s just

as daylight. In her eyes, Karl and I could

to deny it, a part of

softly. “It’s good to be

I make my way back into the house, each step carrying a different

of the staircase, I hear Karl’s voice drifting

leap. Maybe Elsie’s smirk held more truth than I’d like to

I hear the familiar ping of my phone and my thoughts snap back to

and see a message from Ethan. He’s asking a question about inventory,

I should let it wait until I get home. But

a boss for five

responding when the sound of footsteps approaches behind

step below me. He has a knowing look on his

a sparkle in his

a split second, I’m transported back to a time when this was an

occurrence.

to the phone in my hand.

enjoying the weekend off.”

avert my

for my phone, gently taking it from me. “Abby, Ethan and the restaurant will survive

couple of days. Just

mostly grateful. He always had a

okay. No more work. I

a smile I’ve missed more than I care to

couple of things here, and now I’m

cafe you used to

…

I was last