Nero's feet moved before his brain signed off on the decision.
One second he was standing at the garden's edge, strategic planning still half-loaded in his head about trials and combat specialists and defensive formations.
The next, he was walking forward with his hand outstretched toward Celis like some invisible thread had yanked him into motion.
She looked so... small.
Not physically. The woman radiated quiet strength that made Aurelia's divine presence look loud by comparison.
But that melancholy draping across her shoulders like a weighted cloak? The way her fingers traced those flower petals with care that suggested she understood fragility on a deeply personal level?
It made something in his chest twist uncomfortably.
Aria had warned him about mysteries buried in Celis's past. Dangerous secrets that apparently required careful handling and delicate timing.
Sure. Fine. Everyone had baggage.
