They returned to Verath Hollow as the first snow of winter began settling over the trade district, Elena asleep against Isla's shoulder for most of the final stretch, exhausted from days of excited exploration and new friendship. Mercer carried her inside once the carriage finally stopped, tucking her into bed while she murmured something half-formed about pastry negotiations and maps before drifting fully into sleep.
He found Isla waiting in their study, two cups of warm cider already poured, the fire crackling steadily against the cold outside.
"We're home," she said simply, handing him his cup.
"We're home," he agreed, settling beside her.
The following weeks brought the familiar rhythm of council business and warehouse management, though something had shifted subtly since the journ
