Aurora's POV
The grand ballroom of the Alpha Gathering was a sea of elegant gowns and sharp suits, the air thick with the scent of power and ambition. I stood beside Ethan, a champagne flute in my hand, trying to look every bit the confident potential Luna he wanted me to be. But inside, I was a mess of nerves and conflicting emotions.
Sarah, ever my faithful friend, appeared at my elbow with a plate of hors d'oeuvres. "Eat something," she whispered. "You look like you're about to faint."
I gave her a grateful smile, picking up a tiny quiche. "Thanks, Sarah. I don't know what I'd do without you."
"Probably starve," she joked, her eyes twinkling. But then her expression turned serious. "How are you holding up? Really?"
I was about to respond when a ripple of energy passed through the r
