POV: Araya
Ronan's declaration hangs in the air, heavy and absolute.
"From this night forward, both mother and child are mine."
Araya's breath catches. She wants to argue. Wants to tell Ronan he can't just claim them like property.
But the words won't come.
Because part of Araya wants to be claimed. Wants someone to stand between her and the world and declare her worth protecting.
Ronan's golden eyes never leave hers, waiting for a response. Challenging her to deny him.
Araya doesn't.
Ronan's expression softens slightly. He turns his attention back to the cradle, where Lucian sleeps peacefully.
"May I?" Ronan asks. His voice is rough, uncertain in a way Araya has never heard before.
Araya nods, unable to speak.
Ronan reaches down with bloodied hands and carefully, impossibly gen
