Chapter 21

Roberta POV

Moonlight cast mottled shadows on the floor through the leaves. The war had just ended, and the air still reeked of blood. I woke up from a stupor and felt a familiar hand gently stroking my cheek. It was Marcus. His fingers glided over my skin, bringing a wave of warmth, yet also awakening the doubts and unease deep in my heart.

"Roberta, you're awake," his voice was low and gentle, but I could detect the jumble of emotions within.

I opened my eyes and looked at that once-familiar face, which now seemed strange and distant. I knew that his touch no longer meant anything, and I was no longer Luna who had fantasies about him.

"It's all over. That gang of rogues has been repelled," he continued, attempting to ease the atmosphere with the news of victory.

"Yes, the war is over, but our business isn't over yet," I said with all my strength, my voice somewhat hoarse. I had always hoped that we could formally dissolve our relationship, but he kept dragging his feet.

He nodded an