~Ruby's POV~
We were under attack.
The cold night air hit my face as I stood on the balcony, the wind tugging at my clothes. My heart raced in my chest, pounding hard.
Below, I watched as soldiers and warriors sprang into action, their weapons shining in the dim light. I could hear their shouts and the commands being yelled over the growing tension.
No time to waste.
I quickly turned and raced down the marble stairs, the sound of my boots pounding against the floor ringing in my ears.
I wasn’t thinking about the warriors gathering or the enemies getting closer; my main concern was the kids.
Always the kids.
I reached their room and flung the door open, my breath coming fast.
“Mom?” Rhett sat up in bed, rubbing his eyes, confusion twisting his young face.
“What’s going on?” Little Ruby asked.
I forced a smile — a poor disguise, but the best I could manage. I crouched quickly beside their beds, gathering them close.
“Nothing too serious," I said lightly. "Just a small fight. Nothing t
