Instead, she leaned in, brushing her lips against his cheek, soft but filled with quiet understanding. "But not this time," she whispered. "This time, we will fight together."
Ryder's eyes shook, like he couldn't believe she said that. Then, his eyes closed for a brief moment, his breath shaking with the weight of her words.
Just then, a knock echoed on the door of the outer chamber, followed by the sound of the heavy door creaking open.
"Luna, the food is ready," an omega called out.
"Set it down and leave," she commanded, though her voice faltered slightly, not coming out quite as intended.
"Yes, Luna," the omega replied, their voice fading as footsteps retreated, and the door clicked shut.
Once she was certain they were gone, Reana pushed Ryder off her and sat up. Ryder, ever the clingy nuisance, refused to let go, his head resting against her shoulder, his messy red hair tumbling over his face like an unkempt halo.
"Have you forgiven me, My Luna?"
