Chapter 199

Hannah

I took a deep breath as Noah and I stepped onto the altar. The crowd fell silent, all eyes on us as we prepared for the ceremony. Incense filled the air, its smoke curling around us in fragrant gray tendrils. “Oh, Moon Goddess…”

With practiced ease, Noah and I began our prayers. The words, practiced for two weeks, flowed easily—a traditional chant to plead for a blessed year. But they felt empty, pointless, like reciting a lecture.

Glancing at Noah, I saw his downcast eyes and clasped hands. He caught my gaze, and I quickly inhaled. Focus, Hannah…

Shutting my eyes, I focused on the words—anything but that charged moment in the dressing room. Today was about the Moon Goddess, the deity who had given me—and my baby—a second chance at life. Nothing more, nothing less.

An attendant approached with two cloth-wrapped bundles, our offerings. I felt the weight of mine—precious to me, though only the Goddess would know its contents. Noah did the same, and together we placed them on the altar.

I lingered, fingers resting on my bundle. Noah rose, but I remained.

“Hannah—”

“One moment,” I murmured, glancing at him. “I’m not ready.”

Noah hesitated, then lowered his hand. The only sound was the wind rustling through the trees. Focus, Hannah… I closed my eyes, truly focusing this time. “Thank you, Moon Goddess,” I thought, my fingers moving to my lower belly. “Thank you for this second chance…”

Maybe she didn’t hear me. Maybe she couldn’t hear anything, and I was foolish. But today was about the Moon Goddess, and I needed to thank her. In my past life, my death would have been mere days away. Days.

A long moment passed, punctuated only by the tiny bell chiming in the wind. Opening my eyes, I met Noah’s concerned gaze.

“You alright?”

Nodding, I sniffed, wiping away a tear before anyone noticed. Noah and I bowed, as did the attendees. A loud bell rang, signaling the Lunar Festival’s start.

The ceremony concluded, and the festival erupted around us. Music filled the air, and the scent of food wafted on the breeze. Soon, I was swept up in the festivities, laughing and playing games with friends.

“Oh, look!” Viona exclaimed, pointing. “Crescent cakes!”

I grinned. “I haven’t had one in years!” Viona pulled me toward the stand.

As we waited, Drake tapped my shoulder, a warm smile on his face.

“Luna Hannah,” he said, bowing respectfully. “The Lunar Festival is amazing. You’ve really outdone yourself.”

Pride flushed my cheeks. “Thanks, Drake. I’m glad you’re enjoying it.”

Finally, it was my turn. I bought a crescent cake, taking a bite before receiving my change. The vanilla ice cream was already melting in the humid air.