My Marked Luna (Apphia and Nicholas) novel Chapter 63

**In Fragile Moments We Discover Strength Hidden In Stillness by Tao Cole Rynn**

**Chapter 63**

**Apphia POV**

As I stand in the tent, the world around me begins to blur, fading into the background, until all that exists is the overwhelming sensation of Nicholas’s lips crashing against mine. This kiss is anything but innocent; it is fervent and passionate, his tongue exploring the depths of my mouth with an urgency that sends shivers down my spine. The sound of clapping and cheers fills the air, a cacophony of excitement that only heightens the intensity of the moment. Nicholas continues to devour my lips as if they are his lifeline, and my heart races wildly in my chest.

I gently place my hands on his broad chest, feeling the warmth radiating from him, and slowly coax him to pull back. When he finally does, he rests his forehead against mine, a satisfied smile gracing his lips.

“I love you, my Luna,” he whispers softly into my hair, and those words resonate deep within me. My heart is thundering, each beat echoing the truth of his declaration. He loves me. Nicholas Lavista loves me! A wave of joy crashes over me, and my wolf is purring with delight, her tail wagging furiously—tails?

The rest of the evening unfolds pleasantly, filled with laughter and conversation. I mingle with various guests, but soon, Nicholas drifts off to speak with some alphas. I find myself beside Vicky and Drake, who are deep in a heated discussion that soon leads them to excuse themselves for a private conversation.

I can’t help but steal glances at Nicholas as he chats with a group of men his age. He is nothing short of breathtaking, exuding a carefree confidence that draws attention. I notice several unmated women casting longing looks in his direction, their eyes sparkling with interest.

‘Shameless, bitches,’ Ziora scoffs in my mind. ‘He literally introduced us as his mate and Luna, yet they still bat their eyelashes at him!’ A surge of annoyance and jealousy courses through me. How many women are drawn to him on a daily basis? It doesn’t help that he looks like a Greek god, radiating charm and allure.

I turn away, a small pout forming on my lips as I crave a moment of solitude. Seeking refuge, I slip out of the tent and make my way to the far side of the garden, where a serene quiet envelops me.

Inhaling deeply, I savor the fresh air. It’s peaceful here—just the way I like it, I remind myself as I stroll towards the fragrant rose bushes.

“Congratulations, Luna,” a deep voice calls out from behind me, breaking the stillness. I whirl around to find Alpha Maximus Jere approaching, his expression unreadable.

Stepping back instinctively, I recall Nicholas’s warnings about him. Despite his smile, there’s a shadow of sadness in his eyes that intrigues me.

“You look absolutely exquisite, Miss Apphia,” he says, taking my hand and pressing a warm kiss to my palm.

I retract my hand and offer him a tight smile. “Thank you, Alpha Maximus.”

“Please, no formalities. Call me Maximus, or just Max,” he insists, and I nod, feeling a flicker of amusement in his gaze.

“So, you are the alpha prince’s mate and not merely his guest, as you once told me,” he states, his tone carrying an edge that makes me uneasy.

“I should get back inside, Alpha—Maximus,” I reply, feeling the need to distance myself from this conversation.

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