#Chapter 99: Help in Strange Places

Abby The weight of the world feels like it’s pressing down on my shoulders like a leaden weight, and just when I think it can’t get any heavier, Karl appears in the doorway of my office. “Is everything okay, Abby?” he asks, and there’s a genuine concern in his eyes that almost—almost—makes me want to believe in him again. I hesitate, my eyes darting to my phone with Chloe’s unsent text. But there’s also a cook-off I need to win, friendships to mend, and a restaurant to run. “I’m fine,” I lie, although my voice betrays me, cracking slightly. “Come on, Abby.” He steps into the room, closing the door behind him. “You and I both know that’s not true.” I sigh, shifting my gaze to my computer screen where an article on black truffles glares back at me. I already promised to myself that I wouldn’t let Karl get closer, and everything in my body is screaming at me right now to send him away. But before I can stop him, Karl moves closer, leaning on the edge of my d