Once the dishes were cleared, we followed the boys outside. The morning air was crisp and invigorating, carrying the promise of a new day. Jonas immediately began directing operations for the fort, assigning roles with the seriousness of a seasoned commander.
“Noah, you gather the blankets. Thoren, you’re in charge of the big sticks. Nevara, you can help me design the entrance.”
I laughed softly. “I’m honored by the responsibility.”
Thoren shot me an amused look before setting to work alongside the boys. Watching him crouch down to help secure a blanket between two branches, his expression focused yet relaxed, filled me with a profound sense of contentment. This was a side of him few ever saw—the man beneath the weight of leadership, simply enjoying the company of those he loved.
When
