Adrian's POV

Relief washed over me when Hailey agreed to proceed with the Luna ceremony. My father's wish, hanging like a looming shadow, now had the promise of fulfillment. But as I observed Hailey's response, a nagging sense of dissatisfaction crept in.

Did she agree out of genuine willingness or was it out of pity, a concession to appease my father's desires? I couldn't shake the feeling that the decision was forced, that the authenticity I craved in our relationship was slipping through my ...