Another Chance for the Luna Queen novel

Chapter 0165 Chapter 0165 I decided I wouldnt hold my earlier impressions against her .

As we moved to the living room for dessert , the tension between Alexander and Diana lingered in the air .

Alexander remained polite but guarded , keeping a subtle distance .

He seemed uncomfortable , his sharp gaze flickering toward his mother with a critical edge .

I told myself it was probably because of her earlier remarks , though the unease in the room felt harder to explain away .

We settled into plush chairs as the house staff brought out coffee and an elegant tray of sweets .

Diana launched into an animated story about her grandmothers set of heirloom jewels , describing each piece with vivid detail .

When she offered to let me borrow them for the ceremony , couldnt help but feel flattered by the gesture .

Thats generous of you , Alexander said , arching a single eyebrow .

Why shouldnt I be generous ? Diana replied smoothly , but there was something slightly off about her smile .

It seemed a little too polished , too deliberate as she turned her focus to her son .

Theres no reason for you to be , Alexander said , his tone neutral .

I have everything handled .

As always , Diana said , a faint smirk tugging at her lips .

Youve always had that independent streak never wanted to accept help from anyone .

Hes been like this since he was young , she said , turning to me .

Ill gladly accept help when I need it , Alexander replied , his voice calm .

I simply dont want to ask too much of you .

Its no trouble at all , she said .

It would be nice to borrow something for the wedding day , I think , I said .

Maybe another day we can look over things together .

See ? she said , glancing at Alexander .

I knew Ella would understand .

Dianas smirk softened into something resembling a real smile , but the tension between them didnt dissipate .

Alexanders posture remained stiff , his hand resting lightly on the arm of his chair , his fingers drumming rhythmically against the polished wood .

A light knock on the door interrupted the low hum of conversation , and Alexanders drumming fingers stilled as he turned his attention toward it .

Relief flickered across his face , his rigid posture softening slightly as the door opened .

Standing in the doorway was a tall , slim young man with dark hair and wide , boyish features .

Despite his sharp suit , he exuded an air of youthful awkwardness .

Oh , Michael ! Diana exclaimed , springing to her feet with unrestrained excitement .

She hurried across the room , enveloping the newcomer in a tight hug .

Youre home ! Did you have fun ? Michaels cheeks flushed faintly as he glanced at us , clearly uncomfortable with his mothers behavior .

Im fine , Mother , he said softly .

It was just two days .

Youre acting like I was gone for months .

Yes , but Im not used to you leaving , Diana said , her voice thick with emotion .

I was so worried about you .

Its such a relief to have you back safe and sound .

Why wouldnt I be ? Michael muttered , shifting uncomfortably in her embrace .

Please , stop fussing .

Im your mother , Diana said , pulling back only slightly to cup his face .

Its my job to fuss .

+25 BONUS Chapter 0165 I glanced at Alexander , noting the slight tightening of his jaw and the way his gaze dropped to his lap .

The stark difference between Dianas welcome for Michael and the way she had greeted Alexander earlier hit me like a splash of cold water .

My heart sank as I realized what I was witnessing .

Diana clearly had a favorite son .

It explained so much the tension in Alexanders demeanor , the clipped tone he used with her , and the guarded way he carried himself in this house .

How could he not feel the weight of her different treatment ? Alexanders expression was impassive , but the subtle stiffness in his posture told me the truth .

I wanted to reach for his hand , to offer silent reassurance , but I held back , unsure if the gesture would only make him feel more exposed .

Michael , oblivious to the tension in the room , offered a polite nod in our direction .

Hello , he said .

You must be Ella .

I forced a smile and nodded .

Its nice to meet you , Michael Likewise , he said , his tone genuine but quiet .

He glanced between Alexander and me , his gaze lingering curiously on his older brother for a moment before Diana ushered him further into the room , chattering about his trip .

Alexander remained silent , his expression carefully controlled , but I could read the unease in his body language .

It was becoming increasingly clear that beneath his composed exterior lay scars that ran deep .

Navigating things with the Black family might be more difficult than I had hoped .

+25 BONUS Chapter 0166