The morning light streamed through Luna’s window, warming her face. She slowly opened her eyes, blinking at the sunlight. Her thoughts from the night before came rushing back, making her sit up in bed.
She was free.
The word felt strange in her mind. Free. No more cleaning, no more orders, no more fear of punishment. And Raphael… he had offered her a place in his home.
Luna hugged her knees to her chest, thinking deeply. She had stayed up most of the night, weighing her options. Starting over sounded like a dream, but the thought of living with Raphael felt so personal, so new. Could she trust him?
Her thoughts raced until she finally made a decision. I’ll do it. I’ll accept his offer.
With her heart pounding, Luna got out of bed and dressed quickly. She smoothed her hair, her hands trembling slightly. Taking a deep breath, she left her room and walked down the quiet hallway toward Raphael’s door.
When she reached it, she hesitated. Her hand hovered over the wood as her nerves got the better of her. What if he’s changed his mind? What if he regrets asking me?
Pushing those thoughts aside, she knocked gently.
“Come in,” Raphael’s voice came from inside, deep and rough with sleep.
Luna opened the door slowly, peeking in. Her breath caught in her throat when she saw him. Raphael was standing by the window, shirtless, the sunlight highlighting his toned chest and broad shoulders. His hair was messy, and his eyes still held the softness of sleep.
“Luna?” he said, turning to face her fully.
Her face turned red, and she quickly looked away, staring at the floor. “I’m sorry,” she stammered. “I didn’t mean to bother you.”
Raphael chuckled softly and crossed the room, closing the door behind her. “You’re not bothering me,” he said.
Before she could step back, he placed a hand on the wall beside her, pinning her lightly. His body was close, his morning scent of soap and warmth surrounding her.
“What’s wrong?” he asked, his voice low and curious.
Luna’s heart raced, and she couldn’t meet his gaze. “I… I just… I came to talk to you,” she said, her voice barely above a whisper.
He tilted his head, a playful smile tugging at his lips. “About what?”
She swallowed hard, her hands fidgeting nervously. “About your offer,” she said quickly.
Raphael’s smile widened slightly. “My offer?” he repeated, leaning in a little closer. “You mean living with me?”
Luna nodded, her cheeks burning. “Yes,” she said.
“And?” Raphael prompted, his eyes searching hers.
Luna took a deep breath, forcing herself to look up at him. “I’ll accept it,” she said firmly, though her voice still wavered.
Raphael stared at her for a moment, his eyes softening. “You’re sure?” he asked gently. “This is a big decision, Luna. I don’t want you to feel pressured.”
“I’m sure,” she said, her voice steadier now. “I’ve thought about it. I don’t know where else to go or what else to do. And… I trust you.”
Her words seemed to catch Raphael off guard. He looked at her quietly, his expression unreadable.
“You trust me?” he asked, his voice quieter now.
“Yes,” Luna said, nodding. “You’ve been kind to me. You’ve shown me that I’m not just a servant or a slave. And… I want to start over, Raphael. I want to be free, but I also… I don’t want to be alone.”
Raphael’s hand moved from the wall to gently cup her cheek, his touch warm and careful. “Luna,” he said softly, “you don’t have to explain. I get it.”
She leaned into his hand slightly, her nerves settling. “Thank you,” she whispered.
Raphael smiled, his thumb brushing her cheek. “You don’t have to thank me,” he said. “I’m happy you trust me. I promise I’ll make sure you’re safe and happy.”
Luna’s eyes filled with gratitude, and she gave him a small, shy smile. “You’ve already done so much for me,” she said.
Raphael chuckled lightly. “Well, I hope you’re ready to move soon,” he said. “My house isn’t as grand as Damian’s, but it’s peaceful.”
“I don’t need anything grand,” Luna said quickly. “Just a place to feel safe.”
“Then you’ll love it,” Raphael said. “I’ll take care of everything.”
Luna nodded, feeling a sense of relief wash over her. She had made her decision, and for the first time in a long while, she felt hopeful.
Raphael stepped back slightly, giving her some space. “Now,” he said with a playful grin, “are you going to keep blushing every time you see me shirtless?”
Luna’s cheeks turned red again, and she looked away, flustered. “I wasn’t… I didn’t…” she stammered.
Raphael laughed, his voice light and teasing. “Relax, Luna,” he said. “I’m just joking.”
She bit her lip, a small smile tugging at her lips. “You shouldn’t joke like that,” she muttered.
“Why not?” Raphael asked, raising an eyebrow.
“Because it’s embarrassing,” she admitted, her voice barely audible.
Raphael smiled warmly. “I’ll try to behave,” he said, though there was still a hint of playfulness in his tone.
Luna looked up at him, her nerves easing as she saw the kindness in his eyes. “Thank you,” she said again, her voice sincere.
Raphael reached out and gently ruffled her hair. “Stop thanking me,” he said with a grin. “Now go get ready. We have a lot to do.”
Luna nodded and turned to leave, her heart feeling lighter than it had in years. As she walked back to her room, she couldn’t help but smile. For the first time, she felt like her future was truly her own.