Jayden's POV
Queen Jaelyn emerged from the royal kitchen with both children nestled in her arms. Naia's infectious laughter filled the corridor while Jeffrey eagerly pointed at the ornate picture frames lining the walls. His small finger traced invisible patterns in the air as he studied each royal portrait with fascination.
Three maids followed in silent procession toward the dining hall. Their arms balanced silver trays laden with steaming bowls and artfully arranged fruit platters. The aromatic scents of roasted vegetables and seasoned meats drifted through the air.
I walked behind them at a respectful distance. Something about my mother's expression caught my attention. The genuine warmth radiating from her face was unlike anything I had witnessed in years. This wasn't the calculated smile she displayed during tedious council sessions or the polished charm she wore at state functions. This was raw maternal instinct awakening after decades of dormancy.
