98. Shadows to Light

|| Lilac’s POV || The questions kept coming, each one more damning than the last. Kael’s face grew red, his hands clenched into fists. He was losing control, and it was clear to everyone in the room. “I think we’ve had enough questions for the day,” Alexander said, standing up and cutting through the tension. “Let’s enjoy the party.” The reporters reluctantly backed off, their attention shifting as the candidates stepped down from the stage. I turned to Elara, who was grinning like the cat that got the cream. “Like it?” she asked, her voice low and smug. “You did this?” I asked, my eyes wide with amazement. “Planted a few questions here and there,” Elara said with a shrug. “How dare he bully you at the Eclipse Ball? This was the payback.” I couldn’t help but laugh. “No one can bully my best friend,” Elara said, pulling me into a side hug. Alexander walked over to us, his arm around Madeline’s waist. “You did great,” Madeline said, her eyes shining with pride. “Thanks, love,” Alexander