Chapter Fifty
The morning sun spilled gently through the wide kitchen windows, casting a warm golden glow over the room. The faint scent of brewed coffee and fresh bread mingled with the laughter of a small, high-pitched voice that was achingly familiar.
Elena leaned over the counter, tying a loose braid in her daughter's hair as the little girl wriggled impatiently, tiny hands undoing the neat plait as quickly as it was made. "Stay still, Emma," Elena said with mock sternness, though her eyes sparkled with affection. "Otherwise, your hair is going to look like a bird's nest again."
Emma giggled, pure sunlight in human form. "Mommy, I don't want a braid! I want kisses!"
Elena laughed, setting aside the comb and leaning down to place a soft kiss on the tip of her daughter's nose. "Fine. But just one… or maybe two," she teased, eyes meeting Adrian's across the kitchen.
