BOUND TO HIS MOON

CHAPTER FIVE

The sleek black Maybach had been driving for nearly forty minutes, leaving the bustling heart of Vienna far behind.

They had passed the city limits and continued along a private, tree-lined road that wound through the hills. When the car finally slowed and pulled up to a set of massive iron gates, Serene's breath caught in her throat.

The residence that appeared before them was nothing short of breathtaking — a modern luxury villa built into the hillside, all glass, dark stone, and warm wooden accents. It looked like something out of a high-end architectural magazine, private and imposing. As the car stopped, several servants and maids immediately emerged from the main entrance, standing in a neat line. They bowed respectfully as Kael stepped out first. A graceful woman in her early thirties stepped forward. She had warm olive skin, sharp hazel eyes, and long dark hair neatly tied in a bun. Her movements were elegant and precise."Welcome back, Master Kael," she said smoothly.Kael gave a short nod. "Lilian, show the girl to the east guest room. Make sure she has everything she needs."Lilian's gaze flicked to Serene for a brief moment. She bowed slightly. "As you wish, Master."Serene stepped out of the car hesitantly, still wearing the oversized hoodie and sweatpants.

Lilian gestured for her to follow."This way, miss."Serene followed the maid inside, and her eyes widened in awe. The interior was even more stunning than the exterior — soaring ceilings, floor-to-ceiling windows that flooded the space with natural light, polished marble floors, and minimalist yet extremely expensive furniture. Contemporary art pieces lined the walls, and the entire house smelled faintly of sandalwood and fresh linen.Lilian led her up a floating staircase to the second floor and opened the door to a spacious guest room. Serene stopped in the doorway, stunned. The room was beautiful — soft cream and sage tones, a large king-sized bed with plush bedding, a private balcony, and an attached luxurious bathroom."Please settle in," Lilian said kindly.

"I'll bring you some food shortly. The Master instructed me to make sure you eat."Serene nodded, still overwhelmed. "Thank you… Lilian, right?"The maid gave a small smile and left. Once alone, Serene sat on the edge of the bed, trying to process everything. This place felt like another world compared to her modest apartment.A short while later, Lilian returned pushing a small trolley with a warm meal — grilled chicken, vegetables, rice, and fresh juice. She set it on the table near the balcony."Master Kael said you should eat," she repeated gently.As Lilian placed the tray down, she discreetly inhaled.

Her expression remained polite, but inwardly she was puzzled.She smells completely human.The scent was unmistakable — soft and ordinary, with no trace of any supernatural bloodline. Lilian had served Kael for years and had never seen him bring a human woman into his private residence before. Especially not one who looked so lost and fragile.Why would the Master bring a human girl home? she wondered. This is very unlike him.Lilian bowed slightly. "Please call if you need anything, miss." She left the room quietly, closing the door behind her.

Serene stared at the beautifully arranged food, her stomach rumbling despite everything. She picked up the fork, but her mind was elsewhere — on her grandmother, on the mysterious caller, and on the rude, dangerously attractive man who had forced her into this luxurious cage.