Chapter 74: A Love Tested by Secrets

**Thelma Zane’s Point of View** As Aldrich and I sat in the oppressive silence, exchanging furtive glances, my mother’s voice broke through the tension. “Ahem,” she said, clearing her throat awkwardly. “We’re still here, you know.” Her words startled us out of our private world. We quickly released each other’s hands as though they had suddenly caught fire, our faces flushing a deep shade of pink. Caught in the moment, Aldrich and I exchanged a sheepish smile. Our embarrassment, rather than awkward, felt oddly comforting—a shared moment of levity in the midst of tension. From his seat, my father rubbed his temples, an amused yet exasperated look crossing his face. “Alright, alright, young lovebirds,” he said, his tone a mix of resignation and bemusement. “Does this mean you’re not angry anymore?” I asked cautiously, my voice tinged with hope. My father gave a soft chuckle. “How could I be? When even the Moon Goddess herself has acknowledged your bond, who am I to stand in t