31

Nova's POV

I slowly opened my eyes, feeling the weight of my body after everything that happened yesterday. The wedding that was supposed to be a new beginning was instead filled with blood and destruction. I took a deep breath, trying to gather my senses.

The morning sun had slipped through the gaps in the window, its rays warm, but not enough to dispel the anxious feelings enveloping me. Every second felt heavy, as if the past and all the tension still burdened my mind.

I tried to recall the beautiful moments that should accompany these days, but all that came to mind was chaos and uncertainty. The sweet memories felt distant, overshadowed by the dark shadows that continued to haunt me.

My thoughts drifted to the man who was now my husband. He was strong and determined, but I knew he was also burdened by great responsibilities. Worry began to gnaw at my heart.

What would happen next?

I turned to the side of the bed, which was empty. Diego was gone. I didn’t know if I should feel relieved or disappointed. After all, he was my husband now, and I didn’t know what to do with that fact.

Slowly, I got up from the bed, feeling a slight pain in my abdomen. The doctor said I was fine, but I still had to be careful. Every movement felt heavy, reminding me of everything that had happened.

I walked through this large room, which still felt unfamiliar to me. Even though I was now Diego's wife, this place didn’t yet feel like home. Its grand walls and elegant furnishings couldn’t dispel the awkwardness that lingered. Everything felt like a strange dream, and I struggled to remember who I was amid all these changes.

I paused in front of the large mirror hanging on the wall, staring at my reflection. My face looked tired, but there was determination in my eyes. I knew I had to adapt to this new life, even though there was much I didn’t know.

Carefully, I stepped toward the window, hoping to see something that could provide clarity. However, my gaze was met only by a vast view that felt both beautiful and intimidating.

The door opened, and an omega entered carrying a tray of breakfast. I recognized her, she was the one who helped me choose my dress yesterday.

"Ma'am, I brought you breakfast. Mr. Diego instructed you to rest and eat well," she said in a gentle voice.

I looked at her for a moment, feeling warmth in her small kindness. I merely nodded and sat on the sofa, accepting the tray she offered with gratitude.

"Thank you," I said softly, trying to smile even though my feelings were still mixed.

She nodded back, as if understanding more than I realized.

The omega smiled gently.

"If you need anything, you can call me. I am always here to help."

I nodded again before she left the room. Once the door closed, I began to eat, trying to ignore the strange feeling rising in my chest. Although the food was delicious, the feeling of being trapped continued to haunt me.

It felt like being a bird in a gilded cage—treated with respect but still confined. All the comforts around me couldn’t erase the feeling of losing my freedom.

I gazed out the window, hoping to see the world beyond. Perhaps there was a way to make this place not just a prison, but also a home. Deep down, I was determined to find a way to be free, even if it meant facing greater challenges.

After finishing my breakfast, I decided to leave the room. I couldn’t keep isolating myself. I needed to see what my life was like now.

As I walked down the hallway, several omegas passing by bowed respectfully. I could only respond with a small nod, unsure how to react. It felt strange to receive respect from people who didn’t even know me. Some of them even whispered after I passed, and I couldn’t avoid the curiosity that enveloped my mind.

Each step brought a sense of awkwardness, but also a bit of courage. I wanted to take a closer look at this new world, trying to understand how everything worked. The walls adorned with paintings and ornaments gave an impression of grandeur, but I felt like a stranger in a place that was supposed to be my home.

As I heard the whispers, my curiosity heightened. What were they saying about me? Were they talking about my marriage to Diego? Or about all the chaos that had happened before?

I continued on my way, I wouldn’t let that awkwardness stop me. Perhaps, with time, I could find my place here—and more importantly, find myself amid all these changes.

When I arrived in the main hall, I saw Jessica and Emily sitting in the living room, chatting, their expressions shifting immediately as they saw me. Jessica snorted quietly, while Emily merely stared at me coldly.

"Ah, our bride finally comes out of hiding," Jessica said with a mocking tone.

I felt heat rise in my cheeks, but I tried to remain calm.

"I just wanted to look around," I replied, trying to show that I wasn’t affected by their attitudes.

Emily remained silent, but her gaze was full of skepticism. I could feel the discomfort between us, and it seemed they were not pleased with my presence here.

"So, how does it feel to be Mr. Diego's wife?" Jessica continued, her voice tinged with sarcasm.

"Is it all what you imagined?"

I took a deep breath, trying not to get caught up in their game.

"Better than you think," I replied, striving to show that I wouldn’t let their comments affect me.

I walked past the living room, ignoring their piercing stares. I didn’t have the energy to argue this morning, enough was enough with all the tension.

Just as I was about to step outside, I saw Marian standing near the stairs, looking at me with a small smile.

"How are you, Nova?" she asked in a soft voice, as if trying to ease the atmosphere.

I sighed, feeling a little relief at her presence.

"I’m fine, Grandma," I replied, trying to show a smile despite my mixed emotions.

Marian stepped closer, her eyes filled with understanding.

"Don’t let them bother you. They’re just jealous," she said in a soothing tone.