Nevara
The castle felt settled when we returned.
Not quiet—just… held together. Like the walls themselves had decided to stop bracing for impact.
Warm light spilled from the dining room, laughter threading faintly through the corridor. My mother’s laugh, unmistakable and grounding. Michelle’s voice followed, bright and animated. Relief loosened something tight in my chest.
They were already home.
Dinner was waiting when we arrived—long table set, candles lit, the clink of plates and silverware echoing softly as we took our seats. For the first time all day, I allowed myself to believe Bethany wouldn’t find a way to ruin this too.
No guards bursting in.
No frantic messages.
No delays.
Just food. Family. Breathing room.
Thoren sat beside me, his presence solid and calm, his knee br
