Asher’s family was set to leave that day, their visit having lasted only two short days, and the heaviness in Kiara’s chest grew at the thought of Gabrielle’s departure.
“I wish you could stay, Gabrielle,” Kiara sighed softly, watching her friend rock the baby, the little prince blinking up with contented eyes.
“Me too,” Gabrielle cooed, her smile tender as the infant’s tiny fingers curled around her own. “I can’t even tell you how much I love this little chumpkin.”
The two women sat together, their quiet moment interrupted when the maid, Lena, stepped in.
“Princess, you have a presence,” Lena announced politely.
Kiara lifted her head toward the door. There, just behind Lena, stood Asher’s mother.
Both girls froze in surprise. The woman who had always carried herself with cold pride
