Chapter Seventeen

A full week had elapsed since my eventful journey to Cessi, leaving me still awash in the aftermath of the surprising news regarding my ‘mate' bond with Calixto. I also couldn't forget the stare in Chiara-serafina's eyes as I left Cessi with Alexander. Furthermore, a torrent of work emanating from the council had inundated Alexander, focusing on the dissolution of our matrimonial bond. Amidst these whirlwinds of change, a beacon of solace entered my life in the form of Rhea, whom I had affectionately adopted.

Remarkably, Amelia, despite the initially unappealing sight of Rhea in her Lynx form, extended a warm embrace, swiftly inviting her into our familial fold. The children, close in age, swiftly forged an unshakable bond. In the mere span of a week from their serendipitous meeting, Amelia seemed attuned to Rhea's every thought, surmising her unexpressed desires without the need for written communication. I promptly enrolled Rhea in a sign language class, and to my astonishment, Amel