Missing: The Woodland's Luna Queen

Where Have You Been

The ringing landline on the nightstand jolted me awake.

Still groggy, I answered and immediately recognized Clyde's voice on the other end.

"Baby, did I wake you up? I'm sorry. I ended up staying at the mansion with my brothers because the meeting ran longer than expected. We were all pretty beat up afterwards from such a lengthy discussion and decided to crash on the couch for some rest."

"Hey, it's not a big deal, okay? We're heading out today and aren't sure when we'll see them next. The main thing is that you spent quality time with them," I reassured him. "Are you coming home now? Should I send the driver?"

"No, we're heading to Alessandro's house to collect some more documents. I'm sorry, I won't be able to have lunch with you at home," he said regretfully once more. "The guards will load the remaining suitcases and then take you to the airport. I'll meet you on the jet."

"Not a problem. I still have at least four hours, so I'll catch some more sleep and see you later, babe." After lying down and stretching my limbs, I felt completely relaxed, my body was satisfied and free.

Yes, last night's s*x had been as thrilling as it was forbidden. It was time to move past this chapter in my life, Clyde meant everything to me, and I wouldn't jeopardize our happiness for a fleeting affair. Besides, the Alpha likely had forgotten about me by now.

For a moment, his peculiar name came to mind, Alpha Abel.

Was that really his first name or perhaps just a call sign? He had referred to me as his mate, even claiming I was his soul mate and speaking of a werewolf pack. It was all nonsense, he probably had one too many drinks last night, what we shared was nothing more than raw desire. I'd lost myself in the passion, and he took full advantage of that, considering the way he had s*x with me. He started out sweet and caring, but quickly turned into an insatiable and possessive lover.

No, that's not really my cup of tea.

I slipped back under the covers, as I had mentioned to Clyde. Thankfully, sleep found me quickly but was soon interrupted by a knock at the door a few hours later. It was Clark, the butler.

"My Queen," he announced. "The car will arrive in an hour. Clyde instructed me to tell you to be prepared. The trunks are already loaded, and Madam Mariam has sent your handbag."

"Yes, yes," I muttered as I pulled back the covers. In the bathroom, I took care of my morning routine and had a quick shower. Entering the walk-in closet, I noticed a jumpsuit hanging there waiting for me. After putting it on, I wrapped up last night's dress to toss in the dumpster outside the house.

As I descended the stairs, I found the driver seated at the table, enjoying a glass of juice and a croissant.

"Clyde mentioned you’re having a late lunch," he said. "I've had everything arranged on the Jet for you already, your favorite fruit smoothie included." The butler smiled warmly at me, though there was an unmistakable wistfulness in his eyes.

I approached him with open arms, and he swiftly drew me into his embrace. "I'll miss you deeply, my Queen," he said with a choked voice. "Be sure to visit during your vacation, I'll keep everything in order until you're back." This parting was equally emotional for both of us.

When Clyde brought me to the house, Clark, the butler, greeted me with such warmth. He introduced me to the older man as "the Queen," and that nickname has stayed ever since, everyone still calls me by it.

"Absolutely! Perhaps you could visit us as well. I'd love to show you and your wife around the local sights," I suggested. Despite his skeptical look, he nodded in agreement. With another kiss on the cheek, I departed with the driver.

The drive to the airport took about thirty minutes. When I stepped out of the Maserati and entered the lobby, I noticed Clyde waiting with his eyes glued to the door. As soon as he spotted me, a smile spread across his face, and he approached me with wide strides.

"I'm really sorry I wasn't home, baby. I promise I'll make it up to you. Being with you is far better than spending time with my two stupid drunk brothers who are now nursing their hangovers," he sighed dramatically as he wrapped me in his arms.

As usual, he nestled his face into my neck and inhaled deeply. "Ah, exactly what I need to clear my head completely. I've missed you, my Queen. I'm never sleeping on the couch again, my arms have felt so empty." I held him close for a few seconds. Yes, this was where I belonged, Clyde meant everything to me. Our bond went beyond love, we were connected at the level of our souls.

"Is that a new perfume, or did you blend different scents together?"

I quickly recovered from my surprise, took hold of my fiancé's hand, and we headed to the check-in counter.

"Yeah, bath salts, body lotion, and perfume. This could be a fun mix," I laughed. Thankfully, he didn't dwell on that topic for long as we strolled together toward the Jet.

As I settled into my seat, he sat down beside me, drawing me close. Moments later, the aircraft's engines roared to life, and we were airborne.

"Are you hungry? I haven't eaten since last night, aside from a burger. Clark arranged for food to be brought on board." He unfastened the seatbelts, and we headed over to a small table. From a warming cabinet, he retrieved bowls and plates filled with my pork crabs in oyster sauce along with mushrooms, broccoli and carrots, bulgur, ripe bananas, raw cucumber, eggplant sautéed in salted butter and chicken breast.

"This Clark is always pampering you. Since I brought you home, he's completely forgotten my favorite foods," he complained with a playful tone. We both burst into laughter because he was absolutely correct.

Clyde served us both a generous portion, and just as we were about to start eating, he managed once more to nearly give me a heart attack.

"How was your evening?" he asked almost nonchalantly. "Clark mentioned you came home this morning without your purse. My mom sent it over to you later."

I chose not to involve anyone in my scandalous escapade. Claiming I was with one of my girlfriends would only trap me in a web of deception. No, this was something I had to handle on my own.

"Well, I met some guests who were new to our parties, so I spent time with them to make sure they felt welcome. In doing so, I lost track of both the time and my purse. That's why I didn't plan to wander too far," I explained apologetically.

"But where did you go?" he persisted…