Celeste’s POV

I pressed a soft kiss to Callister’s forehead, brushing a few strands of her hair aside.

“Get some rest, darling,” I whispered. “The war is never won in one night.”

She didn’t respond, but her eyes followed me. Poor girl, she had no idea it took a lot of strength to lose gracefully. I left her bedroom, gently closing the door behind me, leaving behind the fire's warmth with her.

The hall was dim. My heels clicked lightly on the stone as I walked and before long, I ...