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.

I know, aside from my sister. Her unwavering strength and unparalleled kindness are what captured Drystan's heart and

been busy with Astrid all day, so he probably forgot

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

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 a remarkable woman, one who reminded me of my sister I had lost. The kindness, the resilience, the unwavering spirit - it was

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

the stars, I wished Astrid was Drystan's second mate.

I know that we stand no chance. My sister is Drystan's true mate, and with the huge gap in our age, my feelings are better buried

looking around for you all day," Someone suddenly spoke behind me, making me jump from my seat. "Drystan! W-What are you doing

Drystan shouted as he revealed a present behind his back. "You think I forgot?" he asked

present from his hands. "Of course not, I've been expecting this that's why I went out here to hide

out here to sulk because you thought I forgot, didn't you?" Drystan continued to

out here on your

for my birthday,"

suddenly smiled. "Oh yes, I remembered when your sister told me the story how yoatwere born on 11:59 PM. If you came out just a few seconds late,

always surprises me with how much he knows me.

"What's this?!"exclaimed when I