The morning sunlight spread quietly across the Ravenscroft mansion.
For the first time in many months, the house did not feel heavy with fear or investigations. The atmosphere had changed slowly after Dorian's imprisonment. Not perfect. Not fully normal. But lighter.
Inside the shared nursery, both babies slept peacefully beside each other after another calm night.
Vivian stood near the mirror adjusting the sleeve of her cream-colored outfit while Isabella sat nearby carrying one of the babies carefully.
"You're nervous," Isabella said softly.
Vivian sighed faintly.
"Is it obvious?"
"A little."
That made Vivian smile slightly. Today was important. Her first official appearance inside the Valenridge Executive Council after her promotion.
And everyone already knew the entire city would be watching her closely.
Sebastian entered the nursery moments later dressed in a dark suit, looking calm as always. But his eyes softened immediately when they landed on Vivian.
