53
~Elara's POV
I woke to a soft knock at the door. My eyes fluttered open, squinting at the sunlight streaming through the curtains. Before I could move, a guard stepped in, bowing respectfully.
"Good morning, Luna Elara," he said, his voice calm. "A woman who calls herself Stella is here to see you."
I froze. My stomach dropped. Stella? My aunt? Here? I sat up, feeling my heart start to race.
"Bring her in," Darlon said from across the room, his voice calm but steady. He looked at me, a question in his eyes. "Are you okay with that?"
I nodded, though my mind was already spinning. I wasn't sure I was ready to face her. Before I left the room, Darlon stepped closer and placed a soft, warming kiss on my lips.
"Good morning," he whispered. "I'll be right here when you're done."
