Chasing His Kickass Luna Back
Chapter 0363

Karl

“I have to say, Karl, I'm excited about this merger.”

Richard, the Alpha from a neighboring pack, sits across from me at the conference table. Our Betas sit beside each of us, furiously scribbling down notes. Between the four of us is an array of papers: forms, contracts, written agreements, and multiple drafts of each.

“As am I, Richard,” I say with a smile as I sign my name on the dotted line for what feels like the millionth time today. “I believe, with our combined resources, both of our packs will benefit from the merging of this textile trade.”

"Oh, absolutely,” Richard says, leaning back in his chair. He's an older man with salt-and-pepper hair and a well-tailored Armani suit. “My company needs more workers, and your workers need room to expand.”

"Of course, we'll split everything fairly, just as it's outlined in the contracts,” I say. “So long as we ensure a smooth and seamless transition...”

As we delve deeper into the details, my phone buzzes on the table, and I glance at the screen to see Abby's name flashing.

A mix of emotions washes over me, and for a moment, I hesitate. I know I should pick up, and I want to hear her voice, but I'm keenly aware of the watchful eyes around the table—especially Richard's, who's awaiting my attention.

Reluctantly, I decline the call and set my phone face down, silently apologizing to Abby. I cant afford any more interruptions, especially after the disastrous meeting I had last week.

"Apologies for the interruption,” I say, directing my attention back to Richard. “Please continue.” Richard nods, his expression serious, and we resume our discussion. The negotiation is no easy task; there are still a lot of kinks to work out. But, after what feels like hours, we finally shake hands, sealing our agreement.

“Thank you, Karl,” Richard says, offering a rare smile. “I believe this will be a prosperous partnership for both of our packs.”

I return the smile, relief washing over me that the negotiations have ended on a positive note. “I agree, Richard. It's been a pleasure working with you.”

With the deal settled, I gather my papers and prepare to leave the conference room. Marcus turns to me with a reassuring smile as we walk down the hallway together.

“Karl, your approval ratings are looking good,” Marcus says, his tone optimistic. “It's a promising sign, especially with yours and Ethan's campaign announcements coming up.”

I nod, feeling a sense of satisfaction. “Good. That's encouraging. Once we officially announce our campaigns in the next couple of weeks, I think I'll be in a strong position.”

Marcus nods in agreement. “Absolutely. I suggest we speak with Sarah, your election manager, about organizing some volunteering opportunities to help further boost your approval ratings before the campaign officially launches.”

I consider Marcus’ suggestion. It's a good idea, and it will also give me a chance to test Sarah's abilities.

“Set up a meeting with Sarah soon to discuss the details,” I say. “We need to maintain this momentum.”

Marcus nods. “I'll get right on it.”

As I head toward my office, though, I finally remember Abby's missed call. I pull out my phone, and there it is—the missed call notification.

I feel a bit guilty. She's going through a lot, and right now, I never know if something horrible has happened. I feel helpless being so far away from her, but it's like she refuses to let me help.

“I've got to make a call,” I say, glancing at Marcus.

Marcus nods understandingly as I slip into the privacy of my office and shut the door behind me.

I dial Abby's number, the phone ringing in my hand as I wait anxiously for her to pick up. She answers after a few rings.

“Karl?” she says, and I can immediately sense a hint of urgency in her voice.

"Hey," I reply. “I saw your call, but I was in a meeting. Is everything okay?”

There's a pause, and I can sense her hesitation. “Oh, um...” She pauses again before continuing. “It's nothing. Just a, uh... butt dial.”

I furrow my brow, not convinced by her dismissive tone. I've always been able to see right through her, and right now I can tell that she’s being hesitant about telling me something. “Abby, tell me,” I say, my voice growing stern. “Now.”

She sighs softly, and I can tell that she’s debating whether to share whatever is bothering her. Finally, she speaks, her voice low and troubled. “Someone... someone threw a brick through my window last night.”

My heart clenches at her words. “What? Are you okay?”

“I'm fine,” she replies a little too quickly, and I can sense her attempt to downplay the situation. “It's just that... the police officer who was supposed to be watching my apartment, he fell asleep on the job. They checked the dash cam footage on his car and found out it was just a local teenager being a punk, but still. It freaked me out.”

Instantly, a wave of fury washes over me. I want to throttle that officer. “This is unacceptable, Abby,” I growl. “That's it. I want you out of that city. Now.”

Abby hesitates again before speaking softly. “Me too,” she murmurs. “I just... I just don't know what to do.”

“I'm going to send Marcus to get you,” I reply instantly. “No ifs, ands, or buts. Got it? You're coming here.”

She seems to blanch at my words, and her voice wavers as she asks, “Are you... too busy to come and get me yourself?”

I sigh. “I am busy, Abby, but it doesn’t mean I don't want you here. Trust me, Marcus will be there in no time. Besides, you always got along, right?”

There's a moment of silence on her end before she speaks, her tone softer now. “Yeah, I guess you're right,” she murmurs. “I just... I don't want to get in the way of your election, you know? What if people find out I'm there?”

"Abby, I don't care,” I say. “Marcus will pull up out back. We'll make it discreet. Once you get here, you won't have anything to worry about. Okay?”

“Okay.”

"Good," I say, noticing as another meeting notification pops up on my computer screen. “Marcus will be there in a few hours. Be ready by then.”

We exchange a few more words before she hangs up, and I'm left with a mixture of emotions.

On one hand, I'm relieved that she’s coming to stay with me, where I know she'll be safe. On the other hand, I can't shake the anger that someone would target her like this—'punk’ kid or not.

I know I need to do something nice to make her feel welcome, so as I'm rushing off to my next meeting, I call for my servants. I hand one of the servants my card along with a list of instructions. “Make it nice for her,” I say.

“Sure thing,” the servant says as she takes the items. “We'll be looking forward to seeing Abby.”

As I head to my next meeting, I can't deny the fact that I'm also secretly excited to see Abby. Having her by my side right now is a comforting thought in more ways than one, and it'll be nice to see her after everything.

I just hope that my duties don't get in the way of seeing her.

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