Chasing His Kickass Luna Back

My eyes widen in surprise. “Dancing at a party doesn't mean we're back together,” I clarify. “It was just a dance, Alice.”

The housekeeper gives me a knowing look. “Of course, dear. I understand,” she says in that tone of voice that tells me that she doesn't particularly believe me. “But you must know how people love to talk. They've been saying all sorts of things.”

I shake my head, feeling a mix of frustration and amusement. “I forgot how gossipy people can be out here in the countryside.”

Alice chuckles softly. “It is a small town, after all. News travels fast. Much faster than the big city, at least.”

As she takes my plate to wash it, I can't help but wonder why Karl hasn't corrected these rumors. Maybe he enjoys the speculation, or maybe he hasn't even heard about it. Regardless, it's not the kind of attention I want right now.

I thank Alice for her help, and she nods with a warm smile. “You're welcome, dear. If you need anything else, don't hesitate to ask.”

I exit the kitchen, feeling a bit disoriented by the conversation. It's clear that my arrival here has stirred up some excitement among the pack members. I make a mental note to have a talk with Karl about it. I don't want any misunderstandings or false expectations.

Passing through the dining room, I start to head toward the stairs toward my room. Sarah is just coming down, and there's a smile on her face.

“Is there anything else you need?” she asks. “I just brought your bag upstairs for you.”

I offer a grateful smile. “No, thank you, Sarah. The food was wonderful. I think I'll head up to my room now. Thank you for taking my bag, although you didn't have to.”

She nods understandingly. “Of course. Enjoy your stay here. If you need anything, don't hesitate to ask.”

With that, I make my way up the grand staircase toward my old room. I feel a bit strange; the last time I was here just a few months ago, I felt like a stranger. Now, I feel like the guest of honor. What are people thinking?

Is it really the case that everyone thinks I'm the Luna again?

With a sigh, I step into my old bedroom; at least in here, I can relax for a little while. I figure that maybe my presence is just a little jarring and people don't know how to act, and maybe they'll settle down in a day or two.

On the bed, I notice a beautifully wrapped box with a card attached. I approach it and carefully open the box.

Inside, I find a new book—my favorite genre, murder mystery—and a set of spa items. The card, written in Karl's handwriting, reads: “Just some things to help you relax. See you soon. -K”"

The gesture makes me feel spoiled, just like I did when I was married to Karl. It's clear that he’s gone out of his way to make me comfortable, which is both sweet and a little odd.

But as I sit on the edge of the bed, another wave of uncertainty washes over me. Will being here again, surrounded by all these luxuries, make me fall back into my old routine with Karl?

We promised to keep our relationship casual for now, but here I am, being spoiled and treated like the Luna. I don't know how to feel about it.

I'm lost in thought when suddenly, there's a soft knock on the door. I look up with a start, and before I can get up to open the door, it's cracking open.

"Abby?" Karl's voice comes through.

Without thinking, I jump to my feet, smoothing down my hair although I'm not entirely sure why. “Come in."