Chasing His Kickass Luna Back novel Chapter 459

He grins widely, oblivious to my lie. “Well, it’s great to hear,” he says. “A lot of people are happy about it. And, you know, it’s nice to see our Alpha smiling again. He’s seemed different since you came back.”

The bartender’s words give me pause. I peek over my shoulder at Karl, who is deep in conversation with John and Anton, his laughter genuine and carefree. They’re playing a rather animated game of darts, most of which are winding up in the wall instead of on the board.

I find it hard to believe that his newfound happiness is really because of me, though. Even though my wolf surges ever so slightly when I look at him, it’s as if I can’t convince myself that Karl might actually be happier thanks to me.

Taking my drink, I return to the table, where the atmosphere has shifted slightly. Chloe, still distant, sits beside Leah, who’s currently trying to engage her in conversation. After a moment of hesitation, I slide into the seat next to them, the weight of Chloe’s coldness heavy in the air.

“Hey, guys,” I say softly. “Did I miss anything?”

“I was just trying to explain to Chloe why this new guy she’s been talking to is a loser,” Leah says with a laugh.

“And I’m listening.” Chloe’s voice is cold, devoid of her usual mirth. I know it’s not Leah who’s upsetting her, though; Chloe has never been one to take it badly when either of us make fun of her for her choices on Tinder. Hell, she’ll even agree with us pretty much all of the time.

No. This is because of me. I swallow, glancing down at my drink as my mind races with things to say.

But then Leah, sensing the tension, wraps an arm around each of us. “Come on, you two. We’re here to have a good time. Life is short; let’s not waste it being mad at each other.”