Aria thanked Bael at the foot of the stairs, balancing the armful of drawings and gifts the pups had pressed into her hands. The quiet warrior nodded once, his eyes steady. He took up his post near the main door without a word.
She climbed the stairs slowly. Her legs were stronger now, but the pregnancy made every movement deliberate.
Rowan was already in their chambers, standing at the window with his back to her. His shoulders were rigid. His hands were clasped behind him, knuckles white.
"I'm back," she said, setting the drawings on the small table near the door. "The pups sent gifts."
He turned. His golden eyes softened when he saw her, their was grass stains on her dress, the wilted flower tucked behind her ear. "You look like you rolled down a hill of grasses."
"I was ambushed,
