Rosalind's eyes shone like polished sapphires as she returned to her mother, her voice infused with gentle persuasion. "Wait, Mother. Come with us." The flickering candlelight danced across her face, accentuating the hopeful curve of her smile.
Cathryn's brow furrowed, etching deep lines of concern on her forehead. Her voice trembled slightly. "What, Rosalind? It's not safe. The Order's agents are everywhere, watching and waiting."
Rosalind's smile grew, illuminating the space between them. Her hands reached out, grasping her mother's slender fingers. "Exactly," she said, her tone filled with conviction. "The Order will never expect you to leave with us. And... I want you to witness our mating ceremony." The warmth of her touch conveyed a sense of security, reassurance.
As Cathryn hesit
