Chapter 135

Aisha's POV The sun broke through the clouds that morning like a promise, soft gold spilling across the stone paths winding through the Neutral Lands. Peace had settled like dew, tentative but real, and for the first time in months, the air wasn't thick with dread. It smelled of fresh lilacs and celebration. I stood in front of a long mirror in Emma's chamber, smoothing out the creases on her gown. Ivory lace curved over her shoulders and down her arms, delicate as frost. The bodice fit snugly, adorned with pearls that caught the light like stars. Her reflection stared back, equal parts wonder and disbelief. "You're glowing," I whispered, brushing a lock of hair behind her ear. She smiled, voice soft but sure. "That's your doing, you know." I looked at her. "Mine?" Emma nodded. "I never thought I would find peace again. I didn't even think I would find my voice. But you came… You and Simon changed everything." The weight of her gratitude settled warm in my chest. Emma had once been a b