Bella's POV
The courtyard that had once felt so empty now buzzed with life and warmth.
Darkness surrounded us, but our little sanctuary glowed with brilliant light.
The enormous paper moon hanging above caught my eye every time I glanced up.
My laughter mixed with Penny's, filling the space between us with pure joy.
I gripped the swing's ropes as Penny gave me another powerful push from behind.
Each time she sent me soaring forward, I couldn't help but let out a delighted squeal.
This kind of wild, carefree happiness was completely foreign to me.
——
Lucius stood frozen at the courtyard's entrance, lingering there for what felt like an eternity.
He'd been so certain he could approach Bella with complete control over his emotions.
Yet now, standing at her doorstep, his confidence crumbled.
It had been far too long since Lucius had witnessed such pure joy radiating from Bella's face.
