Kamrynn’s POV
“True,” I said, smirking at Thalia’s blush. “You’d better make the most of it because once you have kids, there’s no going back.”
Kyven chuckled and kissed Thalia’s temple. “Oh, don’t worry. I plan to have my fill of her before that happens-and then some.”
Thalia swatted at him, her blush deepening. “Kyven!”
I couldn’t help but laugh as Kyven teased Thalia, her cheeks flushing a brilliant pink. They were perfect together, the kind of love that made me happy just watching them.
“You two are adorable,” I said, shaking my head.
Before I could say more, a familiar voice interrupted. “Kamrynn! There you are!”
I turned to see Elara making her way toward us, her face lighting up with warmth. She reached me in moments, her arms opening for a quick hug.
“Congratulations,” she said, beaming. “I heard everything went well with the twins. How are they?”
“They’re wonderful,” I replied, my smile softening as I thought of Astor and Arabella. “They’re with Luna Rmonica right now, but they’re growing so fast already. It’s hard to believe they’ve only been here for a week.”
Elara’s face fell slightly, a glimmer of disappointment in her eyes. “Oh, I was hoping to meet them tonight.”
“I’ll bring them out before the party ends,” I promised. “I wouldn’t dare leave without introducing them to everyone.”
Her smile returned, and she nodded. “Thank you. I can’t wait to see them.”
I tilted my head curiously. “How’s your little one doing?”
Elara’s expression softened further, a mother’s pride evident in her gaze. “She’s growing up so fast. She’s already toddling around the house, and you should see the way she lights up when she sees her father. He can’t take three steps without her trying to follow him.”
I smiled at the thought, my heart warming at how much joy children brought to their parents. “That sounds amazing,” I said. “It must be so rewarding to see her grow every day.”
“It is,” Elara agreed. Then she tilted her head toward me. “How are you doing, though? It hasn’t been long since the birth.”
I hesitated for a moment, weighing how much to share, before letting out a soft sigh. “It’s been… a lot. I won’t lie-there are days when I feel completely overwhelmed. The exhaustion, the constant feeding, the worry that I’m not doing enough… It can feel like too much sometimes.”
Elara reached out, squeezing my hand gently. “That’s normal, Kamrynn. Every mother goes through that, and trust me-it gets easier. But if you ever need someone to talk to, I’m here.”
“Thanks,” I said, my voice thick with gratitude. “It’s hard, but when I look at them, it’s all worth it. I can’t imagine my life without them now.”
Elara’s smile widened. “They’re lucky to have you.”
Before we could continue, Kyven grabbed a glass from the tray of one of the nearby servers, raising it high above his head. “I think it’s time for a toast!” he declared, his voice carrying over the chatter in the hall.
Elara and I turned toward him, and others nearby followed suit, raising their glasses.
Kyven grinned, his arm still draped around Thalia. “To our victories-every single one of them. For the challenges we’ve overcome and the blessings we’ve gained.”
“To victories!” Elara echoed, lifting her glass high.
“Here, here!” I added, my heart lifting at the camaraderie of the moment.
Kyven excused himself to grab the champagne, Thalia following close behind with a soft laugh. Elara lingered for a moment, but her attention was quickly stolen by one of the warriors, who tugged her onto the dance floor. She shot me an apologetic look over her shoulder, but I waved her off with a smile.
As the others drifted away, I found myself standing alone for the first time all evening. My stomach growled softly, reminding me that I’d barely eaten all day. Deciding to take advantage of the moment, I made my way toward the buffet table.
The spread was breathtaking, and I felt a pang of hunger just looking at it. Platters of roasted meats glistened under the warm light, their rich aromas filling the air. Vibrant salads were arranged like works of art, the crisp greens dotted with jewel-toned fruits and vegetables. Desserts of every kind were laid out in neat rows-miniature tarts, sugar-dusted pastries, and cupcakes that looked too beautiful to eat.
I reached for a chocolate cupcake, carefully picking the most perfect one from the display. Taking a bite, I closed my eyes as the decadent flavor melted on my tongue. The sweetness was rich and velvety, a small moment of bliss that pulled me out of my thoughts.
But my reprieve didn’t last long.
A light tap on my shoulder made me freeze mid-bite. I turned slowly, my heart thudding in my chest as I tried to ignore the sudden chill that ran down my spine.
My breath caught in my throat, standing before me was the last person I expected to see…
Calvin.