The Alpha King's Contracted Luna by Nelson Claudia

Chapter 40

-Ava’s POV-

Slipping away in a strange place was not a good idea. I knew that, but I had been to Italy once with my parents and had b dragged around wherever they wanted to go like a puppy on a leash. I wasn’t that same girl anymore. Grayson might hav promised me some freedom, but he was beginning to take that familiar route, and before I drowned in it, I wanted a tast freedom–just a little.

Then came the idea of the note. I didn’t want him to come after me. I just wanted time to experience Italy all by myself. Luckily, that little boy had been so eager to help me pass the message along. I could only wish I had some money to give him.

Now it was just me, alone, and I was determined to make the most of it. I didn’t want him to come after me, I thought aga forcing the fact into my head. I could feel that familiar thrill whenever Isabella dragged me into her chaos rushing tou me–excitement mixed with a hint of apprehension.

As I walked through the narrow, cobblestone streets, the scent of fresh pasta and warm bread filled the air. The bustling market was alive with locals chatting animatedly, their laughter echoing off the walls. It was the kind of scene I had dream about, but I had to keep reminding myself that I didn’t have any money. I wouldn’t be able to buy anything.

I paused at a small stall, admiring a handmade necklace adorned with delicate silver charms. The vendor noticed me looking. “You like? Only twenty euros“” he said with a broad smile.

“I don’t have any money, but it’s beautiful,” I replied, glancing down at my empty hands.

“Next time,” he smiled, “Italy will always be here.”

I smiled, appreciating his nonchalance. I moved on, soaking in the sights and sounds, my heart racing with every step. 1 passed a street artist painting a colorful mural on a nearby wall, his brush dancing over the canvas with fluid grace. “You have a great eye for art.”

“Thank you!” he replied, not pausing in his strokes. “You’re a traveler?”

“Just exploring,” I replied, my pulse quickening. “It’s my first real time in Italy.”

“You’ll love it. Where are you from?”

“America but secretly, I’ve always wanted to explore this place.”

He grinned. “I hope you find the adventure you are looking for.

“Me too,” I sighed, my heart racing at the thought of what awaited me.

With each step, I felt the thrill of being alive in this beautiful, chaotic city. I wandered through narrow alleys adorned with vibrant flowers spilling from windowsills. Tourists snapped photos, their laughter ringing out in bursts. I was free, and the world around me pulsed with energy.

colors of the treats gleaming like jewels. My mouth watered, but I

for now

place?” I leaned against the railing, taking a moment to breathe. to savor

maybe a couple of years older than me, leaning beside me. He had tousled hair and

Fri, Dec 13

Chapter 40

incredible,” I replied, “I’m just…taking it all

his eyes twinkling with mischief. “I’m Luca.

“Ava

extended a hand and I took it, a hand, feeling

or living?” he asked, leaning casually

few days,” I smiled, my excitement bubbling, I

rich. “Don’t worry. There are plenty of

“Really? I’d love that.”

gestured for me to follow as he walked ahead, leading me away

where the sounds of laughter and conversation floated from open windows. He took me to a small courtyard filled with locals

heart of Florence,” he sighed, pride lacing his

as if I’d stumbled into a secret. “This is

do you think of the food here?” he asked, tilting his head

it off, “I actually just ate at this really nice restaurant but with all this exploring. I think

the best pizza,” He grinned, but I hesitated,

“Really, I can’t-

on me. Consider it a welcome gift,” he insisted,

opened my mouth to protest, but his charming smile caught me off guard. “Okay. Thank you.

on a side street, the sign faded but inviting. Luca ordered a Margherita pizza, and when it arrived, the aroma was intoxicating. The crust was perfectly charred, and the cheese melted

said,

exploded in my

chuckled, “I’m glad

flow that made me forget where I was. We bounced from one topic to another–favorite foods, stories, even silly childhood memories was surprised by how much I enjoyed talking to Luca. There was something magnetic about him, an ease that