Chapter 18

Adeline’s POV

“Candy Aunty!”

The childish cry tore through the chatter and music of the kindergarten party, sharp enough to make my pulse stumble. My hands froze around the plate I was holding, and my throat tightened before my eyes even found her.

I knew that voice. Sweet and high-pitched, threaded with an excitement that could never be mistaken.

Myra.

She slipped free of Vincent’s hand before he could catch her. Her little white dress flared as she ran, ribbons bouncing with every step. She looked like a sprite darting across the grass, small feet kicking up petals, the crowd parting instinctively to let her through.

“Candy Aunty!” she squealed again, arms already open.

I dropped to my knees without thinking. Her tiny body collided with mine, and I caught her, holding on tight. My arms wrapped around her as though they’d always been meant to. The air filled with her scent—sweet as spring rain, threaded faintly with the herbs I always carried. My chest ached, hollow and full at the s