Calista
I stood in front of the mirror, hesitating. My fingers brushed over the small velvet pouch I had buried deep in my drawer after bringing it from the office.
Inside were the earrings Aerion had given me long ago.
Why now? Lyra’s voice echoed in my mind.
I didn’t answer her. Instead, I slipped the earrings on. It wasn’t like I wanted to wear them for Aerion. This was just… practical. They matched my dress and made me look more professional. We were meeting the council and I needed my best foot forward.
Keep lying to yourself, Calista Lyra snorted.
“It’s Arya now,” I muttered aloud, adjusting the dress.
Aerion was already waiting when I stepped out of my house. His eyes skimmed over me, lingering for a moment too long.
“You’re late,” he said, though his tone lacked any real a
