Serenya's POV
It’s past midnight, but sleep won’t come. I’ve been staring at the ceiling long enough for the shadows to start moving on their own. The air feels too heavy, like it’s pressing against my chest.
The photo of my parents on my nightstand glints in the low light. My fingers find the edge of the frame and trace it.
You don’t need words to be heard, little moon.
They used to make me feel seen. Tonight, they just hurt.
The ache doesn’t stop, even when I pull the blanket tighter around me. I should feel better after everything: Darian taking me home, his quiet warmth, the way he stayed just long enough to make sure I was home safe. But the comfort fades fast. He’s kind, patient, always there when I need someone. I just wish that was enough.
It isn’t. Not tonight.
My throat f
