Liora POV
The pantry door still swings from Kael and Dax’s chaotic escape, their muffled laughter echoing down the hall, chased by Miss Ophelia’s sharp, fond scolding: “You two think my kitchen’s a love nest? Moon Goddess help me; I’ll tan your hides with this spoon!”
I bite back a grin, stirring a pot of simmering beef stew, the rich aroma of herbs and slow-cooked meat wrapping around me like the warmest blanket. The familiar clatter of pots, the crackle of the hearth fire…this is where the world feels small and safe, even after everything.
Kai steps through the doorway, and the air shifts. Aria stirs instantly, a low, eager rumble in my chest. He’s still in his training clothes, sleeves rolled to the elbows, dark hair slightly damp from the yard. His grey eyes find me instantly, soft
