Aria's POV.
I woke up with a strange feeling, like someone had been running their fingers through my hair all night, soft and gentle.
My heart fluttered, hoping it was Kael, his touch lingering even in my sleep. But when I opened my eyes, the bed was empty, the sheets cold beside me.
My chest tightened, a mix of disappointment and confusion washing over me. Was it just a dream? Did I imagine his hand, his warmth?
The room was quiet, the morning light slipping through the curtains of the Shadow Claw packhouse, causing soft shadows on the stone walls.
My head ached, memories of the fire, Celeste's threat, and Kael's stern voice in the guest room swirling in my mind. I was still pretending to be Celeste, my twin, hiding my true name, Aria, and the weight of that lie pressed heavy on my shoulders.
I pushed the thoughts away, trying to shake off the odd feeling, and swung my legs out of bed, my silver gown from the Fang Pack crumpled and dusty.
