The Valois estate was quiet. Elara sat by the window in her nightgown, pale silver fabric pooling softly around her ankles.
She hadn't been able to sleep since the engagement dinner. Every time she closed her eyes, she thought of Ryker. Of his smile, of his voice, of the tenderness they had once shared. And every time, she reminded herself it was over. That they were over. That whatever she thought they had was nothing but an impossible dream.
So when the window latch clicked softly behind her, she thought she'd imagined it.
She turned, and froze.
Ryker stood there, his eyes locked on her.
Her breath caught in her throat. "Ryker…"
"Elara." His voice was rough.
For a moment, neither of them moved. Then she shook her head quickly, backing away from the window. "You shouldn't be here."
"I had to see you," he said, stepping forward.
"No." Her voice was firmer now, though her heart pounded against her ribs. "You shouldn't have come. You need to leave before someone..."
