Gaia's POV

"Of course," Astrein said lightly, completely oblivious to the turmoil raging inside me. "I'm sure you'll come to appreciate Isabella's many qualities once you spend more time with her."

He reached for my hand, his grip warm and familiar. "Come, let me explain the details of the Moon God Apple arrangement."

I didn't want to listen. I didn't want to hear his voice praising another woman, didn't want to stand here pretending everything was fine when my heart felt ...