The evening air was crisp and fragrant with the scent of blooming roses.
The botanical garden sparkled beneath thousands of tiny fairy lights wrapped around ancient trees, creating a magical atmosphere.
Elara couldn't remember the last time she had felt this relaxed.
Perhaps...
She never had.
Sebastian walked quietly beside her, matching her pace without saying a word.
For someone who wasn't naturally talkative, his silence didn't feel uncomfortable.
Instead...
It felt peaceful.
"You've been smiling a lot tonight," Sebastian suddenly observed.
Elara looked at him in surprise.
"Have I?"
He nodded.
"I haven't seen you this carefree before."
She looked down at the stone path beneath her feet.
"I think..."
She smiled softly.
"It's because I finally feel like I can breathe."
T
