Chasing His Kickass Luna Back novel Chapter 201

I swallow. So this is it: the article. They had said it would be a surprise last night, and I didn’t know what that meant at the time. I couldn’t be there for the interview because of the fire, so I have no idea how it went.

“Go on,” Ethan says. “Read it.”

My heart hammers in my chest as I pick up the paper. Unfolding it, my eyes lock onto the headline: “Rising Star Chef Abby Reinvents Culinary Arts.” Below it is a picture of me in the kitchen, captured mid-laugh, looking genuinely happy.

“Hey,” I laugh, holding it up. “Who took this picture?”

“Oh, I did,” Daisy says, checking her nails nonchalantly. “Snuck it a couple weeks ago, actually.”

“Why?” I ask, laughing.

Daisy shrugs. “Ethan asked me to take some pictures for the website. Turns out this one had a better use here.”

I scan through the paragraphs, my eyes soaking in each word. The journalist has painted a vivid picture, not just of me, but of my entire team and how we work together to create something special.

There are quotes from Leah about my leadership, and from John about my innovative dishes. Chloe’s snarky wit is captured in print too, adding humor and liveliness to the narrative.

Finally, the article comes to a close with a final line that sets my heart on fire.

“All in all, Abby’s restaurant—La Belle Vie Bistro—is more than just a restaurant. It’s home.”

As I finish reading, I feel tears brimming in my eyes. It’s better than I could’ve ever hoped for. My eyes lift to meet my team, and I’m shocked to see that more have gathered: John, Anton, and yes, even Karl. They’re all standing around me, expectant looks on their faces.

“Oh my god, guys, this is incredible,” I say, my voice wavering. “Did you all really say these things about me?”

Chloe shrugs, a soft smile on her lips. “Well, someone had to tell the world how amazing you are.”

“Mr. Thompson,” I breathe, clutching my necklace with one hand. “How are you?”

“Abby, I just read the article. Fantastic, just fantastic!” Mr. Thompson’s voice booms over the line.

I feel my shoulders relax instantly. “Thank you, sir. I’m thrilled about it, too,” I reply, still floating on a cloud of happiness.

“Now, don’t get too comfortable,” he warns, a serious edge to his voice. “The pre-competition interview is coming up, and it’s going to be televised. This is big, Abby, even bigger than the article. Are you ready for it?”

My heart leaps into my throat. But right now, more than ever, I feel like I could tackle anything. “Y-Yes, Mr. Thompson. I’ll be ready.”

“Excellent,” he says. “I knew I could count on you. Prepare yourself; this is only the beginning.”