My breath hitched. We weren't saying the word directly, but I understood exactly what Lucien was telling my father. What he was promising me.Forever. He was promising me forever.

Silas smiled, eyes suspiciously bright. "That's all a father can ask for."

Lucien turned to Seraphina next, holding my hand.

"And I hope I have your blessing too, Mrs. Ashford, as Camila's mother."

The word 'Mother' hung in the air.

Seraphina's hand flew to her mouth, tears threatening to spill over.

"Of course ...