Chapter 49 - Dinner invitation

Mina POV

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The slick red of her silk dress was uncomfortably tight. It clung to Mina like a second skin, bearing parts of herself she would usually cover. As a Luna, she often didn’t choose the clothes she would wear to formal events, however they were always tasteful, if a little old fashioned. She didn’t feel like herself in those clothes, but they did hold a regal air that helped solidify her presence. This dress was obnoxious, a pleasure for those perceiving her but entirely uncomfortable for herself. A shiver crawled her bare shoulders, the thin straps threatening to snap if she moved the wrong way.

“Here.”

Luna Evelyn pressed a thick black shawl over her shoulders. It hid her body from prying eyes, a barrier that was fixed in place with a brooch in the shape of an Acer leaf. It stood proud, a golden shield protecting her. Tears pricked her eyes, her thank you caught in her throat, but a knock rung through the room, stealing her words, settling a heavy dread in her gut.

“No.