All Chapters of When the Moon Bleeds Red: Chapter 11 - Chapter 13

Seraphine stood near the stable courtyard, the sun rising faintly behind her. Her bag was small—too small for what was ahead. She had not yet spoken with Carlos. She feared what her departure might mean for them. Alaric approached her, his cloak billowing behind him. "You are ready?" She looked down at her worn shoes. "As ready as I can be." "You won't return here," he said. "Not as the girl you were." "I'm not sure who I am anymore," she whispered. "Then we'll find out together." Just as they turned to leave, a figure appeared from the orchard path—Carlos, breathless, eyes wide. "Seraphine!" he called. "You're leaving? Now?" She turned quickly. "Carlos—I'm sorry. I didn't know it would be so soon." He reached her and grasped her hands. "Is this really what you want?" "I… I don't know I dont have a choice." Carlos's gaze darted to Alaric. "And you trust him?" "Im sorry," she said. Carlos's jaw clenched, but he nodded. "Then go. But if he hurts you…" "I won't

The morning sun bathed the Vaelthorne estate in soft golden light, filtering through the tall, arched windows of Seraphine's chamber. She had hardly risen from her bed when a knock sounded at the door. Elda entered with a curtsy and a smile. "Good morning, my lady. I hope you slept well. The Duke arranged for a seamstress to visit today. She has arrived and awaits your pleasure." Seraphine blinked, still slightly dazed from waking. "A seamstress? For me?" "Yes, my lady. His Grace has requested an entire wardrobe prepared for the next season. Gowns, riding habits, cloaks, slippers, gloves... everything a lady of your standing will need." Seraphine's lips parted in surprise. Back at the Delacroix estate, she was lucky to receive hand-me-downs or old gowns altered to fit. The idea that someone would make dresses just for her—dozens of them—felt like a dream whispered into life. Soon, her chamber transformed into a flurry of silks, satins, and velvet. The seamstress, a dignified