Chasing His Kickass Luna Back by Jane Above Story

Karl chuckles. The production assistant is waving her clipboard frantically,

checking her watch like we’re about to count down to an explosion. Karl takes

my hand and we run down the hall, bursting through the doors to the stage. The

assistant gestures to where our station is, all the way on the other end.

Composing ourselves, we walk stiffly onto the stage.

As we walk into the blinding lights, I can see the other contestants—waiting,

watching at their stations. Vanessa is watching from the judges’ stand, and for a

moment I expect her to shake her head with disappointment. But instead, she

shoots me a subtle wink and a thumbs-up. That alone is enough to make me

feel more at ease.

Enter title…

But then, just as we’re passing by the other stations, I hear it: Daniel’s voice, a

whisper that cuts through the air, low enough so only

hear.

to his sous

even get her morning straight without her

has no

of indignation bubbling beneath

me, his eyes narrowing

words.

ready to pounce,

him to

let Karl step in, not now. Not when it would only prove Daniel’s

place in the kitchen,

care of business.

say firmly. “Just ignore

look as we approach our station. “And just let

you? Again?”

to fight

you don’t,

off. “Now is not

a moment before he finally nods, although