Jayden's POV
The late afternoon sun washed the royal garden in a delicate yellow light. It wasn’t as warm as I’d hoped it would be, but it was peaceful, quiet—a rare kind of calm.
I stood near the archway that separated the palace from the garden, watching as Kelani stepped out slowly, her frame delicate yet determined. Her steps were hesitant, but there was a flicker in her eyes curiosity, maybe a spark of courage.
It was her idea to step outside today.
That alone was progress.
She looked beautiful in a simple cream dress Amira had brought her. Her long silver hair framed her face like moonlight, and the flush on her cheeks from the breeze made her look heartbreakingly magical. When her eyes met mine, she smiled nervously. I extended my hand.
"Ready?"
She nodded, but her body trem
