Reclaiming My Broken Luna by Selene Souchon

Nova's POV

As the stillness of the night and the chillness of the air calmed my mind, I found myself drawn outside, my feet carrying me to the most private part of the Packhouse, away from the noise and attention of other people. Today is my birthday, but no one knew about it except for Drystan. Everyone is preoccupied with Astrid's recovery, and I couldn't just steal all the attention and say, 'Hey! It's my birthday today!'

That would be so insensitive of me to do so, and I don't want Astrid to be worried about me. It would be better for Astrid to focus on her recovery.

A part of me was relieved that only Drystan knew it was my birthday. I had never been one for grand celebrations or the unwanted attention that came with them.

The idea of being the center of focus, of having all eyes on me, filled me with a sense of unease. I preferred the solitude, the peace and calmness of the night. And so, I stared up at the twinkling stars that kept me company, and I felt a deep sense of contentment wash over me.

The cool night air caressed my skin, and the gentle hush of the world around me soothed my restless soul.

This is exactly what I needed to be alone, to revel in the simple pleasure of my own company.

However, as I remained alone with my thoughts, I found them drifting towards Drystan, who still hadn't greeted me with a happy birthday until now.

I'm not sure if he still remembers my birthday or not. Drystan had remained steadfastly by Astrid's side all day.

I know how much he cares for her, how his heart had been irrevocably in love with her.

and kindest person that I know, aside from my sister.

day,

had gone unnoticed, for I could only imagine the fuss he would have made had

much as I valued Drystan's friendship, I know that his focus - his heart belonged to Astrid now. And truthfully, I cannot hate him for that. Astrid is truly

as well. Though we had not known each other for so long,

at the stars, I wished Astrid was Drystan's second mate. It would be great if

a crush on Drystan, I know that we stand no chance. My sister is

me jump from my seat. "Drystan! W-What are you doing here?" I stuttered in surprise. I was just thinking of him when he suddenly

Birthday Nova!" Drystan shouted as he revealed a present behind his back. "You

eyes at him as I grabbed the present from his hands. "Of course not, I've

didn't you?" Drystan continued to tease me until he earned a glare from me. "Suit yourself and

are you doing out here on your own then?" Drystan

waiting for

your sister told me the story how yoatwere born on 11:59 PM. If you came out just a few seconds late,

surprises me with how

"What's this?!"exclaimed when I