Vander
The cottage hadn’t changed. Time hadn’t touched it much. The same stone path, the same vine-covered walls—if anything, it looked even more peaceful now. Like Katya and Lydia had poured love into the place. It looked like a home, not just a shelter.
I had bought this cottage for Katya as a thank-you—back when I thought that was enough. I never imagined she’d live here. Not full-time. Not after her marriage fell apart. I didn’t even know her husband had left her until our last trip to Neev. I couldn't blame him entirely—Katya could be difficult, controlling even—but abandoning your family is inexcusable. No matter what.
The door opened, and Lydia stood there, staring at us like we were ghosts.
Her eyes went straight to Lucian, then to me. And just like that, the warmth of the cott
