The sun rose gently over North Creek, casting long rays across the stone walls and lighting up the dew on the grass. Birds called from the pines, and smoke from morning hearths rose in thin, curling streams. Inside the keep, Trixie woke to the sound of soft coos. Her son, little Ryker, was wriggling in his cradle, kicking the blanket away. Afina blinked at the light, quiet as always, her thoughtful eyes following her brother’s every move. Marielle had managed to twist herself sideways, her tiny hand gripping the edge of the cloth as though preparing for adventure. Trixie smiled, pushing herself up carefully. Her body had grown stronger again, though the months had left their mark. She leaned over and gathered the boy first, pressing her lips to his head. His soft hair tickled her chin. “You’re trouble,” she whispered, kissing him once more. “Just like your father.” As if summoned, Ryker appeared in the doorway, rubbing sleep from his eyes, his hair still a mess from the night.
Last Updated : 2025-10-03 Read more