Millicent
The truth of it sat heavy between us. We could pretend all we wanted that this was just about us, but it wasn't. Our son's position, his safety, his future - it all depended on decisions we made now.
Abel pushed off from the desk and approached me slowly, telegraphing his movements like I was a spooked animal. Maybe I was. But I didn't retreat when he stopped in front of me, close enough to touch but not touching.
"Is that the only reason?" His voice was carefully neutral. "To protect Alexander?"
I could lie. I could say yes, that's the only reason I'd consider making this official. It would be easier, safer. But I was so tired of playing it safe.
"No," I admitted, the word barely a whisper. "I want it too. The bond, the ceremony, all of it. I want to be yours officially, pu
