Chapter 98

• LUXURIA.
• I glanced out the window again, my breath shallow, my heart racing faster than it had all day. Everything was clear now. It was time.
• Dashi had spent most of the day with me, and though I was relieved that we had reconciled, I couldn't shake the nervous energy thrumming beneath my skin. I had been so afraid she wouldn't leave before nightfall. But I didn't let it show. I stayed calm, forced smiles, and nodded at all the right moments. And when she finally left on her own, a quiet prayer of thanks escaped my lips.