Sarah's POV
I caught Elena's warning glance and immediately understood. My maternal instincts instantly kicked in. This wasn't a conversation for little ears.
"Sweetheart," I said gently, stroking Aria's hair, "why don't you go to your room for a bit? Mommy needs to talk with Aunt Elena."
"But—" Aria's small fingers gripped my sleeve tighter, her eyes wide with lingering fear.
The bond between us was almost tangible, like an invisible thread connecting our hearts.
I pressed a kiss to her forehead. "Just for a little while. I'll come tuck you in soon, I promise. And tomorrow, we'll spend the whole day together, okay?"
She hesitated, then nodded reluctantly. "Promise?"
"Cross my heart," I whispered, making the gesture over my chest. My wolf might be gone, but the fierc
