Rhea’s POV
My eyes were cutting across the room at that girl, the way she was pressed against Rowan like she had every right to be there. But Rowan didn’t waste time. He pulled free from her arms and grabbed mine instead.
My heart did a full spin. I almost turned around to make the most ridiculous victory face, but I held it together. I was Rowan Langston’s wife. Composure was the bare minimum.
“My daughter!”
Noona’s voice rang out before she was even fully through the door. She pulled me into a hug that smelled like rose water and warmth, the kind that made you melt a little without meaning to. Behind her, Rowan’s stepmother stood with a smile stretched so wide and so empty it might as well have been painted on.
“You look pale, my dear.”
Noona held my face in both hands. “Has he bee
