Chapter One hundred and Eighty Nine

Allegra’s Pov

As I stood in the clearing, buoyed by the wisdom and compassion of the Moon Goddess, a newfound sense of clarity washed over me like a cleansing tide. With each passing moment, the raw ache of betrayal began to ebb, replaced by a steely resolve and a determination to confront the challenges that lay ahead.

Gathering my strength, I wiped away the last of my tears and squared my shoulders, ready to face Xander and my father once more. As I made my way back to the house, my heart pounded in my chest, a mixture of apprehension and determination coursing through my veins.

As soon as I stepped through the door, Xander's eyes met mine, his expression a mix of relief and apprehension. Without hesitation, he rushed towards me, arms outstretched, ready to envelop me in a comforting embrace. But I held up a hand, stopping him in his tracks.

“Not yet,” I murmured, my voice barely above a whisper. “I'm not ready.”

Xander's brow furrowed confused, and his eyes filled with concern. “Al