"My queen…"
Ashen's voice was low as he stepped into the chamber, his footsteps careful, as though he feared the floor itself might betray him. He took a step toward her.
Lumina's hand shot forward at once.
"Do not come any closer to me."
Her voice trembled, sharp with anger and hurt. The words rang through the chamber like a warning bell.
Ashen paused for half a heartbeat, then smirked faintly, the kind of smile he used when trying to soften her.
"My love," he said gently as he continued forward. "I promise I will sort this out."
"I am serious," Lumina shouted, her chest rising and falling erratically. "Do not take another step. I am not going to believe anything you say anymore."
She swallowed, her throat burning. "You want a concu…"
Her words were cut off as Ashen closed the distance and pulled her into his arms.
She gasped, fists pressing weakly against his chest as he held her tightly, as though afraid she might disappear if he loosened his grip.
