(Nova POV)
The rumor reached me before breakfast.
I was in the dorm common room, pouring coffee from the ancient machine that always burned the brew, when two second-years walked past whispering.
"…heard it from Serena. Damien's betrothed. Liora Voss. The blonde from the eastern pack. Announcement's tomorrow."
"She's perfect for him. Alliance. Duty. Everything the council wants."
"Poor Nova. Thought she had a chance."
The mug slipped from my fingers.
Coffee splashed across the counter—hot, dark, spreading fast.
I didn't move.
Didn't breathe.
Just stood there, staring at the spill, feeling the bond tug—sharp, painful, confused.
Liora.
The blonde from the club.
The one he'd kissed before me.
The one Serena had mentioned in her note.
The one I'd tried to forget.
I saw Liora Voss for the first time in person the day the rumor became real.
The day at that party weeks ago.
