I sank to my knees beside Kael, brushing a hand through his soft, dark hair. Tears blurred my vision, but I refused to let them fall.
“It’s okay,” I whispered, my voice breaking. “I’m here, baby. I’m here.”
Kael stirred slightly, his lips parting as if to speak, but he settled back into sleep. I sat there for what felt like hours, the crackling fire, the only sound, vowing to hold together what Lucian seemed determined to let crumble.
Later that evening, I sat at my desk, papers spread out before me. The council had sent another batch of reports, and I was knee-deep in reviewing files on the new warriors who’d sworn their oaths yesterday. The work was tedious, but it kept my mind busy, a welcome distraction from everything else.
The sound of hurried footsteps in the hall broke my concentration. Curious, I stepped outside our room, only to freeze at the sight of Lucian. He was rushing into the sitting area, carrying Talia—my younger sister—in his arms like she was made of glass.
“What happened?” I asked, my voice tighter than I intended.
Lucian glanced at me briefly, his expression unreadable before his eyes returned to Talia. Concern etched every line of his face, a tenderness I hadn’t seen in a long time.
“I told him I was fine,” Talia said with a light laugh, though her tone carried a hint of embarrassment. “I just tripped, Sera. It’s nothing serious.”
“Nothing serious?” Lucian cut in sharply, his jaw tightening. “You’re bleeding, Talia. Sit down. I’ll get the medicine.”
“Lucian, really—”
“Tals, don’t argue,” he interrupted, his tone soft but firm. “Stay here.”
Tals?
The nickname hit me like a slap. I hadn’t heard him use it before, and it rolled off his tongue with a familiarity that sent an ache through my chest. My gaze dropped to her leg, where a small cut marred her otherwise flawless skin. It wasn’t deep, barely enough to warrant his panic, yet here he was, fussing over her like her life was in danger.
I forced a smile. “I see. Get well soon, Talia. I’ll just... get back to work. Lucian’s here to take care of you.”
Talia flashed me a small smile, one that didn’t quite reach her eyes. “Thanks, Sera. And sorry for the commotion at this hour.”
Her words were polite, but her tone was anything but apologetic.
I nodded stiffly and turned away, heading back toward the room. I didn’t make it far before Lucian’s voice stopped me in my tracks.