Evangeline's POV

The days following our joyful reunion were filled with a renewed sense of hope and purpose. Our family had weathered the storm, emerging stronger and more united than ever before. Aunt Seraphina and Sara had returned to us, and the palace felt alive with the laughter and love that had been absent for far too long.

Amidst the newfound happiness, there was a sense of anticipation that lingered in the air. Ryder and I had known that we were mates for almost seven months now, our ...