Chapter 73: A Promise Etched in Moonlight

**Thelma Zane’s Point of View** “Moon Goddess, please summon me away from here,” I silently prayed, sitting on the sofa beside Aldrich. Across from us sat my parents, their expressions a mix of seriousness and confusion. Though it might have seemed like a simple conversation, the room carried the weight of a trial—a trial in which I was both defendant and witness. Aldrich’s usual calm demeanor was replaced with a quiet intensity. His presence alone seemed to thicken the atmosphere, and for a moment, I felt like we were caught in a tri-party standoff. “We need to talk,” my father finally said, his voice steady but firm. “Let’s have an honest and sincere conversation.” I nodded, glancing briefly at my parents. “What you see is the truth,” I began, my voice unwavering. “Aldrich and I are in a relationship. We aren’t simply indulging in a fleeting romance. Father, Mother, we are serious about each other.” Since our secret had already been exposed, there was no point in hiding any