Another Chance for the Luna Queen by Aurora Starling

Chapter 0226

Ella POV

At some point, I managed to fall asleep, though far too late. When my mother knocked on the door to wake me for the rehearsal dinner, I was beyond exhausted. It took several attempts for me to stir, let alone keep my eyes open long enough to respond.

Somehow, I forced myself out of bed and spent a little time getting dressed and doing my makeup. The result was passable–not glamorous, but at least I didn’t look like a zombie.

By the time I made my way downstairs, Alexander had alreally arrived. I paused at the end of the hallway, unnoticed for the moment, and took the opportunity to observe the way my parents interacted with him in my absence.

My mother, whose initial reservations about Alexander had been so evident, now smiled warmly and genuinely as they spoke. It wasn’t the polite smile she gave out of obligation; it was sincere, the kind that made the corners of her eyes crinkle.

Alexander, to my relief, returned her expression with equal sincerity, his charm understated but natural.

Seeing them like this lifted a weight from my chest. My parents‘ concerns about my relationship with Alexander seemed to have melted away.

judgment had been irreparably damaged. But now, it seemed, they were beginning to see Alexander as I did–someone who was not only trustworthy but who cared for me deeply.

you sleep well?” Alexander asked suddenly, his voice drawing me out of my

realizing I’d been caught spying. “I don’t know about well,” I said, smiling sheepishly, “but I did sleep,

in time,” Alexander said as he walked over to greet me with a kiss on the cheek. “The guests have already begun

overslept so much. I’m so

said with an easy smile. It was no trouble to

it,” I murmured, glancing at my parents. They exchanged a quick, knowing look before slipping

faded, replaced by a look of concern.

I hesitated, but he

morning, there was something in your voice… I’ll admit, I’ve been concerned about

my chest flutter unexpectedly, though I tried to push the feeling aside.

just can’t stop thinking about all of this. There’s a

frowning

connection could be.”