"Lianna…I…that…that doesn’t suit you." he explained hurriedly before pointing towards another rack randomly. "That one is best for you."
The sales assistant hesitated, confusion flickering across her features. "Sir…are you sure? You really want your bride to wear that? "
The moment my gaze followed where Zyan pointed, a dull ache blossomed into my chest.
Black.
A mourning dress that shone like gems.
I saw the realization strike his eyes a second too late, his lips parting as if to correct himself.
"I saw wrongly, if you are upset choose whatever you like-"
"I will wear it. "I said softly.
The words fell into the boutique like a final bell.
"Lianna you… "Zyan’s said stunned, his gaze searching my face unsettled, like he was looking for tears that never came.
Before the silence could stretch any further, Victoria’s voice slipped in gently.
"Sister. . . I am so sorry. . . today was ruined because of me. "
"To make up for it, would you…come to the family dinner tonight? " she offered, eyes reddening as if guilt weighed heavily on her heart. "Father misses you terribly. His heart condition worsened after you cut off all contacts. "
Hearing those words, the small flicker of guilt lingering in Zyan’s eyes vanished instantly.
"Alright. "I replied, making her innocent facade crack for a moment.
I agreed..not for her.
But because once, my brothers had been my shelter, my twin’s footsteps always half a breath behind mine, his hand reaching for mine whenever he was afraid.
Before bloodlines mattered, they had loved me without conditions. This would be my final farewell to those memories.
When we finally reached my childhood home, everyone was already seated.
Father didn’t look at me. My brothers didn’t greet me. Their attention solely belonging to Victoria.
"You shouldn’t strain yourself."bFather said gently, his voice softening in a way I barely recognized. "Especially in your condition."
Then, as if continuing a thought already settled in his mind, he said "Victoria was always a kind child…gentle and considerate. She would make a far better Luna."
Only then did his gaze flick toward me cold and already done.
"When Lianna ran away, I feared she would truly go astray. Alpha, we are grateful you took responsibility for this rebellious child."
Something cold slid down my spine.
The room stilled.