Chasing His Kickass Luna Back by Jane Above Story

Abby

The stage lights are blinding, but I try to focus on the announcer standing across

from me. His voice reverberates through the microphone as he begins his script.

“Ladies and Gentlemen… Welcome to the annual Alpha party cooking

competition! I’m your host, Heinrich Williams, and today I’m proud to

announce…”

One by one, the contestants and judges are introduced. Their faces are

projected onto giant screens that hang above us, and with each announcement,

the audience cheers and applauds excitedly. The announcer then asks each

Enter title…

person a couple of questions, giving them time to promote themselves before

the show begins.

As I’m waiting for my turn, though, all I can feel is crippling, soul-crushing fear.

How do I look? How will the audience respond? What will I say when it’s my turn

expecting all of this, and all I can think is that maybe

this morning, maybe I wouldn’t be

the while, Karl stands beside me, steady as a rock.

brown eyes glinting

about it is

way, I’m almost glad to have him here. I thought

my side,

roils inside of me at his presence,

lifeline in

now,” the announcer booms, pulling me back to

your hearts with her interview yesterday.

words about inclusivity in

welcome to Abby!”

the crowd erupts into cheers, louder and more

have ever imagined.

I blink in surprise.

my name on them,

in colorful letters, hearts dotting the

Abby!” and “Team

feel Karl nudge my arm gently, a signal for

floor as I move stiffly

now in a different

Do people…