39 - Luna's Ceremonies

Of course, I was filled with joy knowing that my family had decided - on their own - to attend my ceremony. They seemed so happy for me, even though I still felt upset and rejected by my father.

I mean, I don't know if, despite the years of harsh insults from him - and I have to admit this - I can still see a different sparkle in his eyes when he looks at me. It's not gratitude or love, like my siblings have for me, it's something I can't quite identify.

"You look beautiful," Mom says, running her hand down the side of my dress. She cups my face and makes me look at her. "You are strong, Malia. Go in there and do better than I ever could have done."

"My girl," Peter says, pulling me into a hug. "I never imagined you would be with Jaden. With Jaden."

"Is it really that hard to believe?" I laugh softly, looking at him.

"He was my friend, dear," he holds my fingers. "We weren't the best, but we were close. He always pointed out how cool he thought it was to treat you so well..."

"Well,"