The Alpha King's Reluctant Bride (Ava and Grayson) novel 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 v 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

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 int 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 anima

I paused at a small stall, admiring a handmade necklace adorned with delicate silver charms. The vendor noticed me looking. “You like? On “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 art 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 spilli As dusk began to settle, my stomach growled, reminding me of my empty pockets and how much time had passed. I glanced longingly at a

for now

I looked away, soaking it all in instead, “Can you believe this place?” I leaned against the railing, taking a moment to breathe. to savor the fi “Beautiful, isn’t it?” A voice cut through my thoughts. I turned to find a young man, maybe a couple of years older than me, leaning beside m Fri, Dec 13

“Yeah, it’s incredible,” I replied, “I’m just…..taking it all in.”

He nodded, his eyes twinkling with mischief. “I’m Luca. You?”

“Ava

“Nice to meet you. Ava,” he extended a hand and I took it, a hand, feeling the warmth of his grip.

“Visiting or living?” he asked, leaning casually against the railing

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

Luca chuckled, a sound that was deep and rich. “Don’t worry. There are plenty of free things to enjoy. I can show you some spots where tou “Really? I’d love that.”

“Let’s go then!” He gestured for me to follow as he walked ahead, leading

Verify captcha to read the contentVerify