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.

growled, reminding me of my empty pockets and how much time had passed. I glanced longingly at a nearby gelato stand, the rich colors of the treats gleaming like jewels. My mouth watered, but I shook my head, knowing better than to

for now

place?” I leaned against the

young man, maybe a couple of years

Fri, Dec 13

Chapter 40

it’s incredible,” I replied,

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

“Ava

I took it, a hand,

living?” he asked,

Just for a few days,” I smiled, my excitement bubbling, I have to be careful, though. I don’t have any

plenty of free

“Really? I’d love that.”

then!” He gestured for me to follow as he walked ahead,

and conversation floated from open windows. He took me to a small courtyard filled with locals playing cards and sharing stories, their faces illuminated by the soft glow of fairy

the real heart of Florence,” he sighed,

laughed, feeling as if I’d stumbled into a secret.

thrill of connection. “So, what do

me by now. I quickly brushed it off, “I actually

grinned, but I

“Really, I can’t-

me. Consider it a welcome gift,” he insisted, his tone playful yet

smile caught me off guard. “Okay. Thank

the sign faded but inviting. Luca ordered a Margherita pizza, and when it arrived, the aroma

he said,

exploded in my mouth.

glad you liked

was. We bounced from one topic to another–favorite foods, stories, even silly childhood memories was surprised by how much I enjoyed talking