When The Moon Forgot Me

ter

ra's

me was a stark contrast to the hard, unfor

and dangerous combination. Guilt twisted in my gut. I shouldn't be here.He wasn't in the bed, but I could hear the clinking of china from an adjoining room. I sat up slowly, my muscles screaming in

n with what looked like a feast: scrambled eggs

miled. Heavens, that smile totally made me pus

t shivers down my spine. "I hope you're feeling better. I wasn

mile. "Thank you.

near the bed. He pulled up a chair and waited patiently. "Eat. Yo

intensity that made me both ne

he said finally when I'd manage

voice still a little ho

s a pleasure to meet such a beautiful, gracious be

what happened. It was instinct. I just... saw

ing. "You healed me, Elara. You d

times... to heal." It was a watered-down version of the truth, but it was all I felt co

ling in his gaze. "I'm grateful," he simply said, his v

I could be

nd he started stroking my hair gentl

bath." I hes

a dress for you." He helped me get

ht. A massive, freestanding tub, easily big enough for three people, sat on a raised platform near a wall of windows overlooking... well, I couldn't quite see yet. Steam curled lazily from the chrome faucet, teasing me with the promise of warmth. The air smelled of something floral and expensive, like a thousan

ing as they met mine. "Relax, Elara. Bathe. I'll be in the garden. Take your time." He tu

an to shed my worn clothes, feeling the weight of dirt and exhaustion slough off with each layer. The water was perfect, just the right temperature t

unrise, and made of silk that shimmered like water. The design was simple and elegant, with a fitted bodice that flowed into a gently swaying skirt. It was the most beaut

ered past rooms filled with antique furniture, portraits of stern-looking wolves, and sculptures that looked impossibly delicate. I go

trellises, and a fountain gurgled merrily in the center. Winding pathways led through hidden noo

spreading across his face."I knew you would look ethereal in that dress, Elara," he said, his voice low and husky. He stepped closer and gently took my hand, his touch sending sh

I could feel the warmth radiating from his body. He turned towards me, his gaze intense and searching. I tilted my head up, anticipation fluttering in my chest, wanting nothing more than to close the space between us. He

n tension that vibrated between us. I felt a strong pull towards this man, a connection that defied logic and reason. It was in