By the time Thomas cleared the last of the dessert plates, everyone was content in that loose, satisfied way only good food, soft lighting, and deep laughter could bring.
Nova still slept peacefully in her crib, and though the four mates lingered over wine, there was no denying the subtle shift in energy as the night deepened.
Eventually, Callum stretched, his easy grin softened by exhaustion. "As much as I'd like to demand another round of Thomas's miracle courses, I think my body's about to mutiny. Bed?"
"Bed," Kai agreed, though his eyes lingered on Samantha and Marcus with that quiet curiosity he rarely voiced immediately.
They gathered their daughter, murmured goodnight to Thomas, and made their way upstairs.
The old corridors of the estate, with their polished wood and flickering sconces, seemed gentler tonight, almost approving of this strange, blended family making themselves at home within its walls again.
