Raisel’s POV

The morning sun filtered through the curtains, warm and soft, like a kiss from the universe after a long, restless storm. I stirred in bed, feeling more rested than I had in days. My body still ached slightly from the newness of motherhood, but my heart felt full—overflowing, actually.

I padded through the apartment, still quiet with the peaceful hush of early morning. I found Soren in Aurelia’s room, the soft light of dawn casting a golden hue over him as he carefully ...