Sophia’s POV
Earlier this morning, I had been caught in the whirlwind of the breakfast banquet, the bustling energy of the Shadow City’s inhabitants filling the air. Amidst the lively chatter and the clinking of dishes, Ethan had leaned in close, his voice a hushed whisper against my ear. “Someone is coming to see you, someone named Seraphina.”
I hadn’t anticipated the woman’s arrival to be so swift, her presence casting a shadow over my thoughts as I replayed the encounter in my mind. Seeing the heartbreak etched across her face had been a stark reminder of the complexities of Alexander’s past a past that I was only just beginning to comprehend.
As Alexander’s stern expression beckoned Seraphina into his study, I couldn’t help but feel a curious itch in the back of my mind. What were they discussing behind those closed doors? What words were being exchanged, emotions laid bare in the private space that had once been a sanctuary for their bond?
Lost in my thoughts, I found myself in the garden, the tranquility of the blooms a stark contrast to the tumultuous emotions that churned within me. The watering can in my hand was heavy, and my gaze was distant as I poured water onto a flower, nearly drowning it in the process.
“Mom, stop!” Daisy’s voice broke through my reverie, her quick reflexes saving the fragile blossom from my unintentional assault.
I blinked, realizing what I had done, embarrassment flooding my cheeks. “Thank you, sweetheart,” I murmured, my voice a mix of gratitude and distraction.
Her concerned gaze held mine, her brow furrowing in empathy. “Is something wrong, Mom?”
Before I could respond, Daniel’s voice cut in, his tone a mixture of dispassionate and understanding. “Sis, don’t bother Mom with unnecessary questions.”
He shot his sister a look that spoke volumes, and she seemed to catch his meaning. I watched as she turned her attention back to the flowers, her silence a testament to her obedience and maturity.
But it was Daniel’s next words that truly struck me, his gaze steady as he addressed me. “Mom, don’t worry. Dad loves you. He knows how to handle things.”
His words were simple, but they held a weight that resonated within me. How had I been so caught up in my own insecurities that I had forgotten the strength of the bond we shared? Alexander wasn’t just a man of wealth and status, he was the Alpha of the Shadow City, a leader whose charisma and presence had undoubtedly attracted the admiration of many before our paths had crossed.
I smiled at Daniel, gratitude and pride swelling within me. “Thank you,” I whispered, my voice a mixture of emotions.
He smiled back, his gaze warm and reassuring. “Everything will be fine, Mom. You’ll see.”
Watching my sensible children, a wave of relief washed over me. Their unwavering support and understanding were a balm to my worried heart. As Daniel spoke, his words were a reassuring melody, reminding me that Alexander was not only the formidable Alpha of Shadow City but also a man of wealth and undeniable handsomeness. “You’re absolutely right,” I responded, my smile genuine. “He must have had no shortage of admirers before our paths crossed.”
Daniel’s eyes sparkled with a blend of understanding and admiration. “And yet, he chose you, Mother. That speaks volumes about his feelings.”
I nodded, my heart swelling with gratitude for the wisdom he possessed at such a young age. “Thank you, my dear. Your words are a source of comfort.”
Daisy joined the conversation, her enthusiasm a vibrant burst of energy. “And if he ever starts to fancy someone else, we’ll be right there with you, Mom! We’ll kick him out together!”
Her bold declaration caught me by surprise, and a laugh bubbled up from within me. “Oh, sweetheart,” I chuckled, shaking my head in amused disbelief. “Let’s hope it doesn’t come to that.”
Daniel’s eyes twinkled mischievously, his voice laced with humor. “Knowing Father, I highly doubt it.”
As the sun cast long shadows across the garden, a tranquil silence settled among us. It was a silence filled with the unspoken understanding that bound our family together. The rustling of leaves in the gentle breeze was a reminder of the world outside our bubble, a world that we faced together.
Daisy leaned in closer, her voice conspiratorial as she whispered, “But seriously, Mom, you’re so amazing that no other woman could ever steal Father’s heart.”
Touched by her confidence, I smiled warmly. “Thank you, my love. But remember, charm is a powerful thing.”
Her laughter was a joyful melody, carried by the wind. “If anyone tries, they’ll have to deal with us first!”
With a shared chuckle, we agreed to keep our lighthearted strategy a secret. “Our little secret, okay?” I said, pressing a finger to my lips.
“Got it, Mom!” Daisy replied with a playful wink.
About ten minutes later, lost in my thoughts, I saw Seraphina stepping out of Alexander’s study. Her demeanor was distant, her face streaked with tears. A pang of guilt pricked my heart, especially when she let out a cold snort as she passed by me.
Curiosity and concern intertwined within me, and as Alexander approached, I couldn’t help but inquire, “What happened? Did something go wrong with your conversation?”