Damian's expression softened, a rare flicker of pride easing the usual edge of command from his features. "He wasn't quiet when he arrived," he said. "But he's been calm since."
Gabriel leaned back slightly, watching the way Sofia's shoulders squared the longer she held Arik, as if the realization of his weight, his warmth, was finally catching up to her. The fear faded from her eyes, replaced by something steadier. Something more certain.
"He is so small and cute," she whispered again, this time with a smile. "He smells like… caramel?"
"That's Gabriel," Damian said dryly.
Gabriel gave him a warning look. "Don't blame me for your son's superior scent profile."
Crista, meanwhile, had stood and quietly stepped behind Sofia, her eyes on the child, not with longing, but something older. She didn't reach to hold Arik. She only looked. Then, after a breath too long, she spoke.
