(Rachelle’s POV)
They’re here.
The twins. Almira’s children.
I hear it from the servants before breakfast — whispered between dusting and folding towels. I’m sipping tea on the balcony, watching birds land on the railing like they know I’m in a mood.
“Did you hear?” the younger one says, not knowing I’m listening. “The twins are back. Damon brought them straight to the Alpha’s quarters.”
“Their mother too,” the older one adds, a little too loud. “She’s staying for a while.”
I set my teacup down gently. The clink of porcelain is the only sound I allow.
So, she’s here. Again.
I rest a hand on my stomach, just enough to play the part. A gentle rub, a soft sigh. The baby bump is small, but it’s there. People soften when they see it. Men open doors. Women smile. It’s almost too easy.
T
