AELIA REVA
The roads blur behind us as the car rolls to a stop in front of the inn I've called home. My chest tightens the second I see it, the warm glow of lanterns spilling out onto the street, the familiar vines curling up the stone walls, the faint sound of laughter drifting from inside. For the first time since Wixar's shadow swallowed me, I feel like I'm truly stepping back into my life.
Ulric squeezes my hand before the driver even kills the engine. "Ready,My Luna?" His voice is low, meant for me alone, his thumb stroking across my knuckles like he can ground me with that single touch.
I nod, though my throat feels tight. Elias, sitting at the front in the passenger seat moves his head to the side and gives me a sidelong smile, softer than usual.
I'm so happy he's here with me. I've missed him.
Ulric gets out of the car and walks to my side and opens my door. The cool Orhill air rushes as I step out. I look up and...freeze.
They're waiting for me.
