Chapter 62 - 61 - A Decision Cast in Shadow
Riven lowered his head, lingering. His eyes never left his sister’s face as she lay asleep.
Mira’s breathing was calm, her body rising and falling slowly with each breath. Her fine hair was spread across the pillow, still damp with sweat. Her expression was peaceful—far too peaceful, compared to the one watching over her.
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Meanwhile, Riven’s chest felt tight with something he couldn’t name. Worry. Gratitude. Fear. Pride. They all clashed and swirled in silence.
"I... need time to think," Riven finally murmured, his voice hoarse, nearly a plea. "I want to talk to Mira when she wakes. I want to know how she feels... before making any decision."
Lord Valderacht nodded slowly. "Of course. This decision concerns her future. It shouldn’t be made without her."
His tone remained calm, but there was a glimmer in his eyes that showed he understood the weight of the moment. He said nothing more. He didn’t push. He simply dipped his head—a rare gesture of respect from a noble to a commoner—then exchanged a few quiet words with Ashtoria before turning and leaving the room.
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The door closed behind him.
Silence returned once more.
The oil lamp on the small table flickered slightly, casting soft shadows that danced along the walls. Riven continued staring at his sister, his fingers gently brushing her small, warm hand.
Moments later, he exhaled a deep breath and spoke softly, "Ashtoria... I don’t really understand all this. About nobility. About adoption. About living in a manor and its rules..."
He turned to look at Ashtoria, who was still seated beside him.
"You understand more. What do you think I should do?"