-Ladon-
This was the moment of truth. She had to make a choice, and it was now or never. I hoped she would choose wisely, not just for us to be together but for peace to finally reign between the North and the South. It was time to leave the past behind and look ahead, but she was scared, and I understood.
In a sense, she was right to hesitate. I couldn’t guarantee the safety of her family if they refused to change. It would be impossible for me. If Rivanna chose her family over this new path, she’d likely perish alongside them. I had no doubt Ashes would want her dead, along with the rest.
“Trust me,” I urged.
She trembled now, her mind racing with countless thoughts. She had to make that difficult choice, and it wasn’t easy. I wished I could decide for her, but I couldn’t. This was s
