The palace corridors of Valtoria were bathed in the golden hues of late afternoon, when I first heard a familiar laugh echo down a long, ornate hallway. I paused, heart thumping in an unexpected mix of joy and trepidation, until I saw her: my sister, Elara, standing at the far end of the corridor, her eyes bright with mischief and warmth. It had been too long since we'd seen each other, and in that instant, I felt the years of separation melt away. Elara had arrived unannounced—a surprise visit that I could hardly believe. She promised, with a determined smile and a twinkle in her eye, that she would stay with me until after the wedding, to help me face the burdens of duty and the complexities of my heart.
"Lucien!" she called as she approached, her voice echoing off the marbled walls. "I couldn't wait any longer. I had to see you—and perhaps even offer a little sisterly counsel."
