The next few days passed in a strange, quiet tension.
Rachel had barely left her new room. She spent most of her time resting, reading the books Elena brought her, and whispering to the baby growing inside her. Kylian had kept his word — he did not come to her at night. The servants now treated her with careful respect, bringing warm meals and fresh clothes without the usual cold stares.
But the loneliness remained.
One afternoon, a knock came on her door. When she opened it, Kylian stood there. He looked tired, his eyes shadowed, but his voice was steady.
“I’ve arranged a supervised visit to your family in Silverton territory,” he said. “You may go tomorrow. Two of my warriors and Elena will accompany you. You will return before sunset.”
Rachel’s heart leaped. Tears immediately fille
