Chapter 0131
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.

time off. Quick question—how would you like us to

new

dive into a detailed explanation, logistics dancing at the forefront of my mind,

moment of conflict grips me, but I decide

advice.

ahead and negotiate the best terms possible but keep it

any future questions for when I’m back.

apologize for interrupting your vacation. Where’d you wind up going anyway, if you

mind me asking?”

I lie smoothly, guilt settling somewhere in my stomach. I can’t tell

I’m visiting

then, the phone rustles, and a new voice bursts through. “Abby! It’s

her abrupt,

the cr ap. You and Karl taking time off simultaneously? Very

laugh. “It’s just a coincidence,

“Listen, Karl’s been gaining bro wnie points lately in my

No h ooking up. Got

assure you, I’m not

say. Just be

up the phone, Chloe’s words ringing

st upid. Which is why it

that was just last night, after dinner

Karl

won’t act

dwell on it further, I notice Gerald standing in the doorway

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