Selene woke before the sun fully rose, the promise of yesterday’s conversation already settled in her chest. Orion was awake beside her, watching their daughter with the calm focus of an Alpha who measured everything.
“You’ve decided,” he said, not as a question. “Yes,” Selene replied, sitting up.
“We need someone. Not because I can’t manage, but because I won’t risk exhaustion when she depends on me.”
A faint smile touched his lips. “Then we’ll choose carefully.” She met his gaze. “Together.” The word lingered between them like a vow already lived. They rose soon after, careful not to wake their daughter. By the time breakfast was served, the palace had settled into its usual rhythm. Over tea and fresh bread, Selene returned to the conversation from the night before.
“The caretaker
