Archer watched as Ella's hand flew to her mouth, her eyes softening. ''Oh, she's beautiful,'' she whispered.
Halime's features melted into a tender smile, while Teuila let out a quiet gasp, her eyes glistening. Nefertiti, usually composed, leaned closer, her voice barely a murmur. ''She's your double, Arch, with Sia's nose.''
Each woman was instantly smitten, their heart captured by the tiny princess, who stared up at him as if he were her entire world. Time seemed to still, the world fading until it was just them.
His chest tightened, overwhelmed by a love so vast it felt like it might shatter him. Exhausted, he sank into a nearby chair, cradling Freya closer. Her small face tilted up, never breaking eye contact, a faint coo escaping her lips.
Archer leaned down, pressing a gentle kiss to her forehead, his voice a soft, trembling whisper. ''I love you so much, little one.''
