Kamrynn's POV
The morning sunlight streamed through my curtains, warming my face as I blinked awake. Stretching my arms above my head, I let out a soft groan. Memories of last night came rushing back, unbidden and vivid. My fingers brushed against my lips, a traitorous part of me savoring the lingering sensation of the kiss.
"Nope. Stop," I muttered to myself, sitting up abruptly and tossing the blanket off. "We are not going there."
"But you are," Aryna teased, her voice playful in my mind.
"I'm not," I insisted aloud, swinging my legs over the side of the bed. "There's too much to do today. The festival's starting."
"Keep telling yourself that," Aryna chuckled.
Ignoring her, I shuffled to the bathroom and splashed cold water on my face, scrubbing away the remnants of sleep and last night's thoughts. Once clean, I padded back to my wardrobe, where Rmonica's special gift hung waiting for me.
The dress was a masterpiece-a deep emerald that shimmered faintly in the light. The cut flattered my growing belly in a way that made me feel beautiful rather than cumbersome.
Slipping it on, I smoothed the fabric over my curves, smiling as it hugged me perfectly. Rmonica truly had an eye for these things. Next, I weaved my hair into a fishtail braid, its loose, elegant style complementing the dress. A touch of light makeup followed-a dab of blush, a stroke of mascara, and a bit of gloss.
I caught my reflection in the mirror and gave myself a small nod. "You clean up well, Kamrynn."
Stepping out into the bustling hallway, I was immediately greeted by the scent of roasted meats, freshly baked bread, and something sweet-maybe honeyed tarts. The palace was alive with activity, a sense of excitement humming through the air.
I found Rmonica near the main hall, her brow furrowed as she meticulously checked over the decorations.
"Good morning," I greeted, stopping beside her.
She turned, her face lighting up when she saw me. "Good morning! Oh, Kamrynn, that dress is perfect on you."
"All thanks to you," I replied with a smile, eyeing her attire. "And you're stunning as usual. You're practically glowing."
"Flattery will get you everywhere," she teased, but the warmth in her eyes told me she appreciated it. "Ready for the madness?"
"As ready as I'll ever be," I said, giving her a playful wink.
She laughed. "Good. I have a feeling it's going to be a long day."
With a nod, I left Rmonica to her duties and made my way to the kitchen, where the familiar hum of activity greeted me. The scent of spices and baking bread filled the air, mingling with the sounds of clanging pots and cheerful chatter.
"Kamrynn!" Tiona called, waving me over with a relieved smile. "Perfect timing. Could you help slice the fruit for the platters? We're running behind."
"Of course," I replied, tying an apron around my waist and grabbing a knife from the counter.
The work was repetitive but oddly soothing as I focused on slicing strawberries and arranging them with precision. But my mind, ever the traitor, refused to stay put. Kyven's face intruded on my thoughts-his intense eyes, his heated words, the feel of his lips on mine, and the way his hands had held me so firmly yet tenderly.
"Focus, Kamrynn, unless you'd rather lose a finger," Aryna snapped sharply in my mind as the knife in my hand slipped, grazing the edge of the cutting board.
"Okay, okay!" I whispered under my breath, shaking my head to clear it.
"You alright?" Tiona asked, glancing at me with concern.
"Just tired," I said with a sheepish smile, brushing it off. "There's a lot going on."
She nodded sympathetically, wiping her hands on her apron. "It's always like this before the Harvest Moon Festival. But trust me, it'll be worth it tonight. There's nothing like gathering around the bonfire under the full moon. It's magical."
I smiled softly, her words stirring bittersweet memories. "Yeah. I hope so."
My thoughts drifted to the past-Harvest Moon Festivals back in the Obsidian Pack. The three-night celebration had always been the highlight of the year. The days were filled with games, music, and a flurry of activities, but the true magic began when the sun set. Everyone would gather under the full moon around a massive bonfire, sharing food, drinks, laughter, and stories. It was a time to give thanks to the moon goddess, to feel the unity of the Pack.
"It still can be," Aryna whispered, her tone soft and encouraging. "Don't let the past keep you from enjoying what's in front of you."
"I'm trying," I replied silently, forcing myself to focus on arranging the fruit slices on a tray.
"You're wondering where he is," Aryna teased again, her voice lighter now, playful.
"I'm not," I lied to her, though my mind betrayed me. Where was he? Probably nursing a nasty hangover in some dark corner of the palace after drinking himself senseless last night.
I shook the thought away, gripping the knife tightly. It wasn't my business, and I refused to let him take up space in my head.
The hours passed quickly, the palace filling with Pack members and the buzz of preparations reaching a crescendo. Though tempted to check on Kyven, I resisted. There was too much to do, and dwelling on last night wouldn't help anyone.
After finishing in the kitchen, I helped with the gift baskets, forcing myself to focus. The festival was just beginning, and I intended to enjoy every moment of it.