Astra’s POV
Sandra tilted her head slightly.
"Like a friend?"
I smiled bitterly.
"Exactly like a friend. Even like a sister."
The words became easier to say once they had finally begun leaving my mouth.
"We slept under the same roof last night, yet it still felt like there was an invisible wall between us.
This morning I made breakfast myself because I wanted us to spend time together as husband and wife, but every conversation somehow turned into discussions about patrols, trade agreements, and council meetings. He thanked me for the meal, smiled at me, even rested his hand on my shoulder before leaving, but there was no passion or love."
Sandra listened without interrupting, her expression thoughtful instead of surprised.
"He treats me kindly, but I don’t want that," I added
