Then, as she reached the doorway, she paused and glanced over her shoulder.
"Now, go wash up," Emily added with a light scolding tone, that same gentle authority she used when he was younger. "I'll make breakfast for you."
Before he could respond, she was already gone—her steps soft but purposeful as she disappeared into the kitchen.
Asher stood there a moment longer, the faint scent of morning spices beginning to drift from the far hallway. He shook his head, a quiet smile forming on his lips.
Half an hour later
Asher stepped into the dining room, freshly washed and dressed, his hair still slightly damp from the rinse. The scent of warm breakfast greeted him—a mixture of seasoned eggs, fresh bread, and spiced meat that only Emily could cook with such familiar perfection.
Valeris and Veyra were already seated, casually chatting over tea, while Catherine leaned against a side wall with her arms crossed, quiet as ever but clearly listening to everything.
