Bloodstone’s summer sun lay warm on the courtyard stones, the air carrying the scent of pine, warm earth, and the faint sweetness of honeyed tea from the packhouse kitchens. Repairs from the war were long finished, leaving the grounds feeling new—renewed.
Crystal approached Lizzy’s home with Aurora on her hip and Ember strapped snugly against her chest. Both girls cooed, fascinated by the movement of leaves above them.
Before Crystal could even knock, the door swung open.
Lizzy’s grin was radiant.
“Get in here, you. The twins have been feral all morning.”
Crystal stepped inside just as Kaiden barreled across the room, chubby legs pumping at full speed. He skidded to a stop in front of Crystal, golden eyes locked on baby Ember like he’d found a shiny new toy.
“Kaiden, gentle,” Lizzy w
