The morning sun cast long, pale beams of light across the frosted courtyards of the Iron-Wood Manor, but inside the sprawling estate, Roxy's soul felt entirely swallowed by shadows.
Why wouldn't she?
She spent the entire day in a state of reflection. She sat in the cushioned window seat of the nursery, a warm cup of herbal tea cooling in her hands, entirely oblivious to the chaotic, joyful noise of her children playing on the rugs below. Her eyes traced the familiar, towering silhouettes of the Alpha Kings as they moved through the courtyard.
She watched Torian effortlessly hoist Axel onto his broad shoulders. She watched Caspian summon a floating bubble of water to make little Zale giggle. And she watched Kaelen, standing near the eastern gates, coordinating the perimeter patrols as always. Very efficient.
A heavy, aching realization slowly settled over Roxy's heart.
