LOGINPOV : AdrianThis dining hall felt different tonight, just different.At least I wanted it to be normal…and it was Just the two of us, nothing else.When she walked in, I swear I forgot how to breathe for a second. She looked breath taking, and her baby bump added to her beauty. “Adrian, she said with a slight hesitance yet gentle tone. “You didn’t have to do all this.”“I wanted to,” I told her while exhibiting the table. “Please, sit.”She glanced around for a sec with the candles before finally sitting herself across me. The servants brought in the food then left us alone.For the first minute, we were both quiet. “Okay this is awkward.” I said, giggling and she joined me. “Thats over… you look pretty… thank you for coming.” I said, blushing like a high schooler. “Wow, I don’t even know how long it’s been since we had a meal like this together,” she said very softly.I smiled slightly. “Probably before things got crazy, huh?”She smiled sadly in reply. “Yeah, I guess that's r
Chapter 119 - the dream Lila's pov The palace wasn't a prison anymore. The palace was not the place where I would chose to sit in my room and starve all because I was scared someone was out there waiting for me, ready to pounce. I was no longer scared of eating, I was no longer scared of getting poisoned.The past few days had been different, though. The servants had stopped looking at me as if they felt pity. The guards had stopped watching me as if they were wondering when I would break.Now they all were smiling. Greeting me. Calling me my lady once again.It was crazy how forgiveness could make the world feel soft again.Sophia and I had started to work on something small but real, the palace charity fund, and getting medicine for orphaned pups. it helped fill the void that guilt had left in my heart.Each morning, we'd sit next to each other at the office near the East Wing, where we would read letters and requests. LWhat had once felt like an awkward silence was now simply pe
Chapter 118 — The First SunrisePOV: AdrianI had been awake all night. Not that I could not sleep; I just did not want to. Lila lay next to me breathing soft breaths. The memory of whatever she had said kept replaying in my mind.I brushed a strand of hair behind her ear. She mumbled something and fell back asleep. I sat there watching her, reflecting on everything that had brought us to this point every mistake, each tear, every way we hurt each other. Somehow, we survived. I guess love survived. When daylight drew near, I knew something had to be done.I did not want our story ending on a sad note.So as soon as the sun was up in the sky, I called for the kitchen staff. Breakfast was to be prepared. For four, I commanded.They looked astonished, for I rarely entertained breakfast, and yet even that was for some less than serious. Luna Sophia, Lady Caroline, and Lady Lila. I added: Casual.The servant bowed: Yes, my lord.After that, I stationed myself at the window, watchin
POV: LilaThe palace had quieted down a lot. The fun, music, and drinks had faded, leaving soft sounds of the night.I walked through the gardens Everything sparkled, delicate and pretty—the kind of beauty that makes you sad if you stare too long.The Harvest thing went better than I hoped. The words of Victoria still lingered in my mind. It was like sun coming to a room where I thought there would always be darkness.However, I learned then that quiet brings peace, as well as louder thoughts.I reached the fountain, staring at the movement of water under light. I looked tired in my reflection, but not broken-for once. My small baby bump could now be seen through my dress. A second chance.But even with new life growing inside me, a part of me was still stuck on what I had lost."I knew I'd find you here."My heart was suspended for a moment by that voice though.I turned to where he stood, Adrian. Adrian stood nearby, messy hair scattered everywhere on his head. He smiled a little
Sophia's POVThe palace seemed to come alive, an energy buzzing through it, something it hadn't felt in ages.I had been running around since dawn to ensure the Harvest Ceremony was perfect. This one was no longer about the manifestation of strength; it was about being grateful and beginning the process of healing.How ironic it was: I make things better, and yet the hurt is all there in my heart, a wound that just wouldn't close up.I again looked around the courtyard, pulling my shawl tighter. The air was fragrant with scents of roasted apples, sweet mead, and wolfsbane. Lila stood across the yard tending to some young servers, her laughter harmonizing with theirs.She looked great – alive.That brought a tiny smile to my lips.It took time, but we were back to being something like sisters. It wasn't perfect, and there were still moments it hurt, but at least I could look at her without the bitter tinge my heart used to feel.Still, I wished I could undo all the harsh things I said
Victoria’s POV The messenger from the palace states, presenting a scroll bearing Adrian's family crest.How strange a feeling would this be, for it had been long since I had seen that crest – not since the fateful day my son, serious and guilty-looking, had placed it in my hands as a gift.I signaled for the messenger and carefully opened the letter.Adrian's handwriting was as neat and controlled as ever. Still, one could sense another side beneath the surface – a fire burning.Mom,Hope you're doing okay. I want you to know that sending you to Eastern Ridge wasn't a punishment. It was to keep us all safe. Things at the palace were toxic. Lila was an easy target. I couldn't let you two destroy each other. I know you might still be angry, but I hope you'll get it eventually.Love, Adrian.I read it again.The third time around, I slowed down.It surely was an apology.Not bossy, not making excuses, just a straightforward, sincere apology.For the first time in a long while, I felt no







