Relief settled over the group—warm, steady—but the shadow of danger still lingered at the edges of the room, crouched just beyond the moonlights’ glow. Everyone felt it.
Still… for tonight, they chose warmth over worry.
Dahlia stood first, smoothing her skirt with graceful finality. “Let’s head inside. The children need something warm before bed.”
Eleanor didn’t hesitate. She reached for Maya’s hand—surprisingly gentle, almost protective. “Come, dear. You look pale. Let’s get you settled.”
Damien’s gaze snapped to Maya at once—sharp, assessing, protective in a way that made her breath catch. He moved subtly closer as if shielding her from a threat no one else could see.
Alfred, appearing with impeccable timing as always, opened the garden doors for the family to file back inside.
As
