tement grew at the thought of my brother finally returning home. Maybe, just maybe, Valen would help me av

always agree. She believed that finding a mate could change my life for the better, and while I understood her point, I couldn't shake the feeling that it would

running a hand through his sandy blon

," I replied, keeping my

nt our eyes met, we both broke into wide grins. As Valen approached, I noticed how much he had chan

ed me into a tight hug, lifting me off the ground. His fa

huh?" he teased, settin

eyes. He always could. A knowing smile played on his lips, and I

g brunette emerged from the sedan, her face a mix of shock and jealousy. I quickly re

ment as she approached us. She was beautiful, with deep brown eyes and a sprinkle of freckles that

came over me," she apologized,

na," I replied, wanting to

rly enthusiastic hug. Typical Aria, always making everything about herself. Despite my disdain for the idea of having

mily, I made my way over to Astrid. Raven and

warmly at Astrid, surprised to s

m," she said, her voice full of relief. Her words made me smile even wider,

sn't so bad," Rose sa

retorted, rolling my eyes mental

ietly, glancing nervously at the others. I watched as my father clapped Vale

ve you are," Raven quipped, s

're more equal," Astrid said, looking genuinely confused. Her words surpris

round," I stated firmly, m

Raven laughed, giving Gideon a pointed look,

ed, a mischievous glint in her eye

get along just fine," I

len and Astrid to join them for lunch. I seized the moment to speak

efore you go in?" I asked,

arm around Astrid's waist. I kept my focus

d set on making sure I go. Can you help me out? You know how I

with thought as he

urrowed in concentration. I could tell

one for a moment?" he asked,

" Raven said, though I could

len asked gently, and I could tel

nodded, instantly r

air, a habit he'd picked up from our father whenever he was stressed.

his voice filled with concern. His words hit me like a blow, and I t

te what they want," I whispered, wrapp

ld fix what's been broken inside you for so long," Valen's words were gentle, but they didn't lessen the sting. Why did eve

away as tears finally spilled over.

elf not to cry. After a few deep breaths and a small pep talk, I made my way to

lp you?" Raven asked, he

I'll just try to make the best of it, and if I find a way to escape, I will

with a small smile, though something in his eyes seem

cheered, starting the car an