Chapter 25: A Lost Father Returns - Alden

Waking up with Sorrell in my arms is the most blissful experience of my life. Her scent is everywhere, allowing me to just lay here holding her while I bask in it. As I watch her sleep peacefully I carefully reach out and brush a strand of hair from her face, and glance down at the crook of her neck. I wanted so badly to mark her last night, but the timing just didn’t feel right for some reason. Something in my gut told me to wait.

After some time I hear her breathing change, and slowly she turns on her side towards me. Her eyes open briefly, and as they close again a lazy smile forms on her face.

“What time is it?” she asks, tiredly.

I trail my fingers up and down her arm, taking pleasure in the tingles that zap through my fingertips as I glance at the clock, “Just a little after seven.”

“We’re late for training,” she says, snuggling closer, making no attempt to get out of bed.

I chuckle, wrapping my arms around her, “I’d much rather be here with you. Roland doesn’t need me, they