Chapter 123: Surrender
Zari held up her hands in surrender. "Calm down. It was the Alpha’s orders."
Ava’s mouth dropped. "Wait, Lucas... he sent it?"
Zari gave her a look. "Of course he did. He’s been brooding since the moment you left."
"So," Ava began as she tucked one leg under the other, settling into the soft plush of the lounge chair. "How have you been, Zari?"
Zari beamed with pride. "Fine! Actually, better than fine. I’m the kitchen manager now." She tried to say it casually, but there was a dramatic hand flourish involved and a sparkle in her eye that gave her away.
Ava raised an eyebrow. "Oh really? Running the whole kitchen? Look at you. Would you have the time to work as my maid again?"
"Are you kidding me? Time? I would quit the kitchen in a heartbeat. I’d set the entire pantry on fire if I had to. Is there any position higher than the Luna’s personal maid? That’s not a job, Ava. It’s an honor. It’s my divine calling. My destiny. I claim it in the name of all maidkind."
Ava burst out laughing, covering her mouth to muffle the giggles. "You’re ridiculous."
"But loyal," Zari pointed out smugly, placing a hand on her chest. "Despite the poisoning incident that one time. I don’t trust anyone else with you."
Ava nodded. That was the truth. After all, Zari had only been a tool used against her.
"It’s good to see you again," Ava said. "Really."