Chapter 54:

A Sister’s Promise

Ella’s

A day had passed since Mara’s hostile visit to the Shadow Clans estate, and the crushing weight in my chest hadn’t lifted. It felt heavier with every quiet hour. I sat silently in my private room, watching my son, Jack, sleeping soundly in his crib.

His tiny hands were curled into soft fists, his breathing calm and steady. Looking at him always brought me a measure of peace, but tonight even that small comfort felt painfully fragile.

I didn’t ...