If only. If only I had heeded my mother’s warnings—the wisdom of the Moon Goddess. I might have been the Lunar Princess, radiating power and grace, rather than this pitiful Luna, subjugated by a faithless Alpha.
"I had something urgent to take care of," I lied, my voice steady despite the turmoil within. "Let the maids cook dinner tonight."
Roan's surprise was palpable. "What?" he exclaimed.
In the past, the very idea of eating food prepared by the maids was beneath him. I had been the one to cater to his every meal, meticulously preparing breakfast, lunch, and dinner. My devotion had been total, unquestioning.
"Is there a problem?" I asked, my tone laced with a hint of challenge.
There was a pause before he responded, his voice softer, uncertain. "No. Just... take care of yourself."
"Thank you," I replied flatly, the words devoid of warmth.
The silence stretched between us, heavy and uncomfortable. Then Roan's voice broke through again, hesitant and searching. "Lori, are you angry?"