LILY: I don’t like the way Vergil treats me, and, worse, he’ll never understand. Carrying the weight of the bond alone is breaking me piece by piece, and I know I need to take a step for myself. Yesterday, I nearly lost my mind driving alone to the Northern Palace. Yet, I’m a pain in his ass that won’t leave. Last night, I slept in a random room. Somewhere far from him. This morning, I leave early, before his usual time at the dining table. I’m not in the mood to see his face or pretend I’m unaffected. When I enter the dining hall, Byron is already standing there—file in hand, dressed for the day, like he’s waiting for orders. I wave off his greeting and hurry to the table. I just need to eat quickly and leave before Vergil shows up. “Luna Lily,” Byron says as I reach for the waffles.

