The rain had just stopped.

Soft mist clung to the windows of the Ciel's mansion east wing, blurring the sunrise into watercolor hues, lavender, gold, and pale blue.

Inside, the world held its breath.

And then came the cry.

High, clear, and so small.

Roxanne exhaled, sinking back into the bed pillows, damp curls stuck to her forehead.

Her fingers trembled, her body ached, but her heart… her heart had never felt so full.

The midwife smiled gently and whispered,

“You did ...