Ava's POV
After a long moment, I forced myself into the shower. The hot water hit my skin, washing away the lingering scent of smoke, but it couldn’t wash away the ache lodged deep in my chest.
When I stepped out, I dressed carefully, applying just enough makeup to mask the pallor, to hide the cracks.
By the time I went downstairs, my face was composed and controlled.
Luna Clara was already seated in the parlor, a morning paper spread neatly in her hands. A cup of tea sat on the side table beside her.
I approached softly. “Good morning, Grandma.”
She looked up, her face warming instantly. “Ava, go have some breakfast.”
I sat beside her, folding my hands lightly in my lap. “How are you feeling today?”
“Quite well,” she said with a small nod.
I smiled, keeping it gentle. “Do you hav
