Caleb's hand tightened on Iva's back. "Mother—"
"You completed the bond!" The queen rushed toward them, her skirts swishing against the floor. She stopped in front of Iva, her gaze sweeping over her with an intensity that made Iva want to hide.
"I can feel it. The energy between you. It's unmistakable."
Iva opened her mouth to respond, but the queen was already pulling her into a warm embrace.
"My dear girl," the queen murmured against her hair. "Welcome to the family. Truly."
Iva stood frozen for a moment, stunned by the unexpected affection. Then, slowly, she hugged back.
The queen pulled away, her eyes glistening. She cupped Iva's face in her hands and smiled—a genuine, radiant smile that transformed her elegant features into something almost girlish.
"We have so much to do," sh
