I stepped out of the orphanage office, clutching the rolled-up packet of adoption papers tightly in my hands, a huge, unstoppable smile plastered across my face. A deep, cozy warmth settled in my chest. I wasn't entirely sure if Eloise had figured out where she and Toby were going to live long-term, but in my heart, I knew everything was going to work out. Even if she decided to stay in the castle permanently, there was more than enough room for both of them.
As I walked down the porch steps and approached where Demetrius and Athena were waiting near the perimeter fence, Demetrius folded his arms, his golden eyes dancing with fond amusement.
"Are you done meddling for today, my Queen?" he asked, a knowing smirk playing on his lips.
I let out a clear, bright laugh, clutching the papers t
