Spring felt endless, and the night was filled with tenderness.

When Emerald woke up, a dull ache spread through her waist and back. Last night had been... wild. But more importantly, neither of them had thought about being careful. Maybe it was impulse, maybe it was something deeper.

After coming so close to losing everything, Emerald's perspective had shifted.

She and Alaric were on the same page—no more regrets, no second-guessing.

As she stirred awake, she found him already looking at her, his gaze soft and full of warmth.

"Are you busy today?" he asked.

"No matter how busy I am, nothing’s more important than being with you," she murmured....