#Chapter 53: A Mess To Clean

Abby The sun’s barely peeking over the horizon as I pull open the door to the restaurant. I can already feel the hustle of a new day, the potential for a fresh start. Walking in, I expect the familiar comfort of an empty space, but I’m met instead with Ethan’s brooding form. His jaw is set tight, his brow furrowed. He doesn’t look up as I approach. “Morning,” I greet cautiously, sensing the tension in the air. He sighs heavily. “Abby... What the hell happened here last night?” Confused, I follow his gaze. The kitchen. Oh no. My heart skips a beat as memories of last night flood back. The cooking. The laughter. The... moment with Karl. “What do you mean?” I manage to ask, feigning ignorance. Ethan’s eyes fix on me, and I can see his irritation. “I’ll show you.” Without waiting for a reply, he leads me into the disaster zone that is the kitchen. Every counter is smeared with remnants of our late-night feast. Pots and pans are scatt