Empty house

Julian reached his front door breathless, his mind still spinning from everything that had unfolded in the past twenty-four hours. He had left Ares’ mansion only moments ago, promising to return quickly after checking on Dorcas, promising to reassure her, promising to be present.

He fumbled with his keys, hands shaking, his pulse pounding in his ears. All he wanted was to see her sitting on the couch, rubbing her belly and pouting about something silly. He wanted to hug her, ...