**Gaia's POV**

I look at Astrein shyly, my cheeks burning under his gaze, and nod.

His eyes widen with surprise, a spark of joy flashing through them. "So you never slept with Lysander?"

I shake my head, the words spilling out in a rush. "I never really loved him—not like that. When I met you, Astrein, that's when I understood what love feels like. With Lysander, it was just... childhood friendship. Gratitude for his protection. Nothing more."

Astrein's expression ...