Aurora stepped out of her room, the soft morning light filtering through the mansion’s large windows. She felt stronger today, though her steps were still careful. She slowly made her way down the grand staircase, her hand lightly brushing the banister for support. The house was peaceful, with only the faint hum of distant activity breaking the silence.
Reaching the sitting room, Aurora sank into the plush couch, letting out a soft sigh. It felt good to be out of her room for a change, to enjoy the quiet warmth of the morning.
Moments later, Madam Catherine appeared, carrying a small tray with a steaming cup of tea. She placed it gently on the table in front of Aurora, giving her a polite nod before sitting across from her.
“Good morning, Miss Aurora,” Madam Catherine said, her tone calm yet warm.
Aurora smiled back. “Good morning, Madam Catherine. Thank you for the tea.”
“You’re welcome,” Catherine replied. She studied Aurora quietly for a moment, a small smile tugging at her lips.
“I must say,” Madam Catherine began, “I didn’t expect you to survive this long, let alone be carrying Mr. Damian’s child.” Her smile widened slightly. “You’ve proven yourself stronger than most women I’ve known.”
Aurora blinked, unsure if she should feel flattered or offended. She decided to take it lightly, chuckling softly. “Well, I guess I’m tougher than I look,” she replied.
Catherine nodded, a rare glint of respect in her eyes. “You are,” she said simply. “I give you a thumbs up for that. You’re stronger than many would believe.”
Aurora chuckled again, shaking her head. “Thank you… I think.”
Madam Catherine stood gracefully. “I’ll leave you to enjoy your tea,” she said. “If you need anything, just call.”
Aurora nodded as Catherine walked out of the sitting room, her footsteps fading down the hall.
As Aurora sipped her tea, she heard the sound of hurried footsteps approaching. Looking up, she smiled as Luna rushed into the room, her face lighting up with excitement.
“Aurora!” Luna called out, throwing her arms around her in a warm, playful hug.
Aurora laughed softly, hugging her back. “Good morning, Luna,” she said affectionately.
“Good morning!” Luna replied, pulling back but still holding Aurora’s hands. “I’m so glad to see you out of your room. How are you feeling today?”
“A little stronger,” Aurora said, resting a hand on her belly. “Each day feels like a small victory.”
“That’s great to hear,” Luna said, her smile widening. “I’ve been worried about you.”
Aurora gestured to the seat beside her. “Come, sit with me for a while,” she said.
Luna nodded, quickly settling onto the couch.
They sat in comfortable silence for a moment, the soft morning light creating a warm atmosphere. Then, Aurora turned to Luna, a playful smile on her lips.
“So,” she began, her tone teasing, “how’s everything going with Raphael?”
Luna’s cheeks flushed immediately, her hands fidgeting in her lap. “Aurora…” she said, her voice slightly embarrassed.
“What?” Aurora asked, feigning innocence. “I just want to know how things are going between you two.”
Luna smiled shyly. “He’s been… wonderful,” she admitted softly.
Aurora grinned. “I could tell from the way he looks at you,” she teased. “He adores you.”
Luna’s blush deepened, but she couldn’t hide her happiness. “He does,” she said with a small nod. “And I adore him too.”
Aurora’s smile softened. “You’re good for him, Luna,” she said sincerely. “I’ve never seen Raphael this way before. He’s calmer, more patient… and it’s all because of you.”
Luna looked down, a shy smile on her lips. “He’s so different from what I thought,” she said. “At first, I was scared of him, but now… now he makes me feel safe.”
Aurora reached out, placing a hand on Luna’s arm. “You deserve to feel safe,” she said. “You deserve someone who makes you happy.”
Luna nodded, her smile growing. “He’s offered me so much,” she said quietly. “A home, freedom… love. I didn’t think someone like him could ever care about someone like me.”
Aurora shook her head firmly. “Don’t say that, Luna. You’re amazing. Of course, he’d fall for you.”
Luna sighed contentedly, leaning back against the couch. “Thank you,” she said softly.
Aurora chuckled. “Just promise me one thing,” she said.
“What’s that?” Luna asked, tilting her head curiously.
“Don’t let him get too full of himself,” Aurora teased. “Raphael may be sweet, but he’s still a Wolfe.”
Luna laughed, her eyes sparkling. “I’ll keep him in check,” she promised.
“Good,” Aurora said with a grin. “Now, tell me everything.”
They spent the rest of the morning talking, their laughter filling the sitting room as they shared stories and strengthened the bond that had kept them close through so many hardships.