My Marked Luna (Apphia and Nicholas) novel Chapter 57

**Apphia’s POV**

As the first rays of dawn crept into my room, I stirred awake, and the very first thought that flitted through my mind was of Nicholas. He is my mate! A rush of warmth enveloped my heart as I clutched my chest, feeling an overwhelming sense of connection.

“Meow,” my cat purred, her soft voice cutting through the morning silence. A smile broke across my face as I reached down to stroke her silky fur.

“Good morning, beautiful,” I murmured, my heart lightening with her presence.

“Meow,” she replied, as if echoing my sentiment.

I swung my legs over the side of the bed and stood up, surprised to find that my senses felt sharper than ever before. The air around me seemed to shimmer with clarity, and I could still feel Ziora’s presence lingering within me. I had expected her to have vanished again, leaving me in solitude, so I had kept my hopes at bay.

‘You’re back for good,’ I thought, a silent plea echoing in my mind.

‘I’m sorry for leaving you. I didn’t mean to. I was trapped, but I’m free now,’ Ziora responded, her voice soothing and reassuring.

‘Just promise you won’t leave again, please,’ I begged silently.

‘I won’t,’ she assured me, her tone filled with determination.

After our brief exchange, I shook off the remnants of sleep and made my way to the spiral glass table that stood in the corner of my room. To my delight, a fresh bouquet of flowers awaited me, their vibrant colors brightening the space. A note nestled among the petals caught my eye.

I leaned in, inhaling the sweet fragrance of the pink flowers as I unfolded the note.

Good morning, my love. I hope you had a lovely night. Mine wasn’t great because I missed you.
Love, Nicholas.

The simple yet heartfelt words brought a rush of warmth to my chest, revitalizing my spirit. I headed to the shower, letting the warm water wash over me, clearing my mind of any lingering doubts. Afterward, I blow-dried my hair, brushing it until it shone. I slipped into a black linen button dress that hugged my figure just right, paired with comfortable loafers. A touch of pink lip gloss and a dab of blush on my cheekbones, just as Lily had taught me, completed my look. Satisfied with my reflection, I stepped out of the bedroom, my heart fluttering with anticipation.

As I descended the stairs, I was fortunate enough to bump into Drake.

“Good morning, my Luna!” he exclaimed, his face lighting up with a wide smile. His enthusiasm was contagious, but then a sudden realization hit me like a jolt of electricity. I nearly stumbled as the weight of my situation crashed over me. Nicholas wasn’t just my mate; he was the alpha of the most powerful pack in the world, and I was destined to be his Luna. The thought sent shivers down my spine.

“And not just that,” Ziora chimed in, her tone bubbling with excitement. “He’s going to be King! You’ll be Luna Queen of the Lycan realm!”

How could she be so thrilled about this?

“Apphia, are you alright?” Drake’s voice pulled me from my swirling thoughts, concern etched on his features.

“Good morning, Gamma,” I replied, forcing a smile. “Have you seen Nicholas this morning?”

“Your mate is in the sunroom on the second floor. He seems to be in a pleasant mood,” he informed me, his tone light.

“Seriously? You couldn’t tell me earlier? I thought we were friends,” I teased, trying to mask the irritation I felt at not being informed sooner about my royal connection.

“It wasn’t my place to say, but I’m glad you know now,” he replied, a hint of mischief in his eyes.

I smiled at everyone, my heart swelling with warmth. Nicholas introduced the older couple as his grandparents, Mike and Clara. They radiated kindness, making me feel at home.

“Finally, my grandson has found his soulmate. We are overjoyed, Apphia. Welcome to the family,” Grandma Clara said with heartfelt sincerity.

“T-thank you,” I stammered, my cheeks flushing with shyness.

A few moments later, tea and biscuits were served, and the room buzzed with conversation. Aunty Anaiah was animatedly discussing plans for an introduction Luna party in my honor, her excitement palpable.

“When do you think we should host your Luna party, Apphia?” she inquired, her eyes sparkling with enthusiasm.

“Is it really necessary to throw a party?” I frowned, feeling overwhelmed by the prospect.

“Of course! You are the Luna of the Sapphire royal pack, and it’s essential for you to be introduced as one. Not everyone can come now, but the ranked members need to know you,” Lily explained, her voice reassuring.

“When do you think is the best time for the party?” Anaiah pressed, her eagerness infectious.

“I think tomorrow evening would be perfect,” Anaiah suggested with a bright smile. I nodded in agreement, feeling a mixture of excitement and apprehension.

Excusing myself, I stepped away from the lively discussion to approach Nicholas, who was engrossed in conversation with Blade, examining a blue file. Blade looked up and smiled at me, bowing slightly. “Good morning, Luna,” he said before excusing himself to rejoin the others for tea.

“Apphia,” Nicholas exhaled softly, his voice a soothing balm amidst the chaos.