My hair is messy, tousled by the chilling morning breeze as I walk slowly through the garden. The fresh blooms glow softly in the early sunlight, each petal kissed by the morning dew. I take a careful sniff of myself—my phromense are light, under control, normal. Not overwhelming. Good. I need to stay careful around a pregnant Omega.
Shine's eyes are fixed on the flowers, one hand resting gently on his rounded belly. His fingers brush lightly across the soft petals of a pink bloom, careful not to crush it. The servant stands a few steps away, respectful and silent, eyes bowed. I step closer, careful not to startle him, each step soft on the dew-kissed grass.
Shine glances up and smiles, a small, warm curve of his lips that makes the garden feel even brighter.
"Good morning, sister-in-law," I say softly, returning his smile.
"Good morning, Zyren," he answers.
He tilts his head and studies me, his gaze soft but curious.
