Hollow Grounds

A giveaway

As Luna woke up, the warm, golden light of dawn streamed into her room, illuminating the dark circles under her eyes. Her head throbbed in pain, a stubborn reminder of the tears she had shed throughout the night. Jasper's harsh words still lingered in her mind, but she was determined not to let them define her.

With a newfound resolve, Luna threw off the covers and swung her legs over the side of the bed. She took a deep breath, feeling the soft, plush carpet beneath her feet. She knew Jasper was hurting, and his words were only a temporary reflection of his pain.

Madina, had already prepared a bath for her. " I'm sorry about last night. For how I treated you and sent you away." She said as Madina helped her into her gown.

" it's alright Milady, it's just the way things are. I'm here to serve and that sometimes means enduring harsh words." Luna felt pang of regret as she looked at her reflection in the mirror. Madina tried to speak but she cut her off.

" Madina I'm sorry. I was wrong to take my frustration out on you. You deserve better, and I promise to do better." She pulled her into her embrace and left her surprised.

" oh Milady .." she said, tears threatening to fall. " what happened?" Luna placed her hand on Madina's head and just when she thought she was going to open up, she run her fingers through her hair, scattering it.

" Milady!"
Luna laughed. The young miss didn't want to talk about the previous night and she wasn't going to force it. "Let's get you ready for the annual giveaway. Your family is waiting."

As Madina styled Luna's hair and applied a light dusting of powder to her face, Luna couldn't help but think about Jasper's words. She felt like a part of her had been ripped away, leaving a hole that couldn't be filled.

She knew she had to put on a brave face for her family's sake. The annual giveaway was a beloved tradition, and she couldn't let her personal struggles ruin it for everyone else.

With a deep breath, Luna stood up, her gown rustling as she moved. Madina handed her a pair of golden slippers, and Luna slipped them on, feeling a sense of determination wash over her.

She would get through this day, no matter what. And maybe, just maybe, she would find a way to heal and move forward.

She wore a stunning orange gown, adorned with intricate golden embroidery. The color was fitting for the harvest season, and Luna's family would expect nothing less.

Luna descended the stairs, her golden slippers clicking on the marble floor. Her family was already gathered in the breakfast hall, their faces filled with warmth and excitement.

Her mother, the matriarch of the family, smiled radiantly as Luna approached. "My dear, you look stunning. Orange suits you perfectly."

Luna forced a smile, trying to hide her inner turmoil. "Thank you, Mother."

The hall was filled with the warm, inviting aroma of freshly baked bread and roasting meat. Philip pulled out a seat for her but she walked all the way to the other side where she sat beside James, her little brother. She was still upset with Philip's behavior.

Her mother quickly brushed it off and breakfast began. Philip looked at her,concern etched over his face and he couldn't see any fault in what he did. He had noticed his sister's disappearance and pressed William into telling him since he was last seen with her. It was only right he did that, he cared for her. Maybe.. just maybe.. it was beyond brotherly love and concern?

" Let's have a good day today." Mrs. Hemmet said as she smiled radiantly. Luna smiled back, her heart filled with a sense of purpose. She knew that today's giveaway was more than just a tradition - it was a chance to make a difference, to bring joy and hope to those in need.

With her head held high, Luna took her place beside her family, ready to face the day with courage and compassion.

The annual giveaway was a time-honored tradition, where the wealthy families of Lyra would distribute food, clothing, and other essentials to the less fortunate. Luna's family took great pride in their generosity, and Luna had always felt a sense of joy and purpose in participating.

However, today, her heart felt heavy, and her smile felt like a mask. She went through the motions, helping to distribute the goods and smiling at the grateful recipients.

Yet, her eyes kept drifting to the crowd, searching for a glimpse of Jasper's dark hair and piercing earthly brown eyes. She knew he wouldn't be there, but she couldn't help herself.

As the day wore on, Luna's emotions threatened to overwhelm her. She excused herself, needing a moment to collect her thoughts.

In the garden, she found a quiet bench and sat down, trying to calm her racing heart. That's when she saw him - William, her childhood friend, watching her from across the garden.

"Luna, can I talk to you for a minute?" he asked, his voice gentle.

Luna spoke, a hint of wariness in her gaze. "What is it, William?"

William took a deep breath, his expression calm, "I wanted to apologize for telling Philip about you and Jasper. I was out of line, and I'm sorry."

Luna's expression softened, her voice barely above a whisper. "Why did you do it, William?"

William shrugged, looking down. "I'm sorry luna."he avoided the question. He couldn't bring himself to tell her, how he really felt about her.

Luna's eyes filled with compassion. "William, I value our friendship, but I need you to respect my boundaries. I can make my own decisions."

William nodded, his eyes meeting hers. "I know. I was wrong, and I promise it won't happen again."

As they sat there, the tension between them dissipated, replaced by a sense of understanding and forgiveness. Luna smiled, and William smiled back, relieved.
****
Jasper's eyes snapped open, his mind foggy from sleep. He was disoriented for a moment, unsure of where he was but as he sat up and looked around, he remembered he had fallen asleep in the gardens, seeking solace in the peaceful surroundings.

But peace was the last thing he got. The sound of laughter and chatter carried through the air, disturbing his tranquility. He scowled, his annoyance growing as he realized who the culprits were.

What were they doing here? Couldn't they see he was trying to sleep?

Jasper's scowl deepened as he stood up, brushing off his pants. He strode towards the pair, his footsteps deliberate and heavy.

As Jasper stormed off, his anger fueled by the disruption of his peace, he was met with a sight that made his scowl deepen. Luna and William, the sources of the noise, were laughing and smiling together, their earlier argument seemingly forgotten.

Jasper's eyes narrowed, his gaze lingering on the pair. What was so funny? Didn't they know he was trying to sleep off his demons?

But as he watched, his anger slowly gave way to curiosity. Luna's laughter was infectious, and William's grin was genuine. They looked... happy.

Jasper's gaze lingered on Luna, her eyes sparkling with mirth. He felt a pang in his chest, a sensation he couldn't quite explain.

Suddenly, Luna looked up, her eyes meeting Jasper's. For a moment, they just stared at each other, the air thick with tension.

Then, Luna's smile faltered, and she took a step forward. "Jasper, we -"

But Jasper was already turning away, his expression darkening. He didn't want to know. He didn't want to be a part of their happiness.

As he stalked off, Luna's voice called out after him. "Jasper, wait!"

But he didn't look back. He couldn't.

PS: no one should hate on Philip. He's just caring for his sister.