The morning after the ritual chamber, the cabin felt lighter.
I woke up wrapped in warmth — Ryker’s heavy arm across my waist, Kai’s leg tangled with mine, Jax’s fingers loosely threaded through my hair. Zane and Draco slept close on the other side, their breathing steady and deep. The curse bonds hummed softly between all of us, balanced and content, like a living heartbeat shared among six.
For the first time in years, I allowed myself to simply lie there and breathe.
Later that morning, I made the call.
“Selene,” I said when the line connected. “It’s safe. Bring him home.”
By late afternoon, the warded SUV arrived under heavy escort. The moment the door opened, Leo burst out and ran straight into my arms.
“Mommy!” he cried, burying his face in my neck.
I dropped to my knees on th
