It was just past sunrise when the black luxury car pulled into the winding path of Valen’s estate—if “estate” could even begin to describe the sprawling mansion nestled between modern glass architecture and the remnants of forgotten stone ruins. Morning dew glistened on the trimmed hedges, and sunlight poured in like soft gold over the courtyard.
Seraphine stepped out first, eyes wide as she took in the looming gothic windows, the iron roses carved into the balconies, and the strange, almost magical hum in the air.
“So this is home now?” she murmured.
Valen joined her at her side, his hand finding hers. “It always was. It just waited until you could find your way back.”
Before she could reply, the sound of a car door slamming interrupted the moment.
“You could've picked a smaller pla
