Shadows in the moonlight

Chapter 40: Shadows in the Moonlight

The night air clung heavily to the forest as Selene walked beside Damien, her hand tucked into his. The warmth of his fingers grounded her, yet the tension in his body told her he was far from calm. Ever since they'd returned from the council meeting, Damien had been quieter than usual.

"Are you okay?" Selene asked softly.

Damien's gaze flicked toward her, his golden eyes glowing faintly in the dim light. "I'm fine," he replied, but his voice lacked conviction.

"You're not," she insisted, pulling him to a stop. "Talk to me."

He hesitated, his jaw tightening. "It's just... those elders don't trust you. They're watching us, waiting for you to slip up."

Selene's heart squeezed. She knew her position as Luna hadn't been welcomed by everyone, but the idea that the council was actively plotting against her made her stomach turn.

"I won't give them a reason," she promised.