Chapter 147

Alaria

The sound of little feet pattering across the floor pulled me out of half-sleep. Anastasia’s laughter, light and innocent, filled the room as she climbed onto the bed and nestled herself between Liam and me.

“Mama,” she whispered, her small hands tugging at the blanket, “you promised to tell me a story before breakfast. Why are you still in bed? We are supposed to be playing.”

“I don't think that playing outside is going to be applicable, little wolf. Your mom is very tired today.” Liam said and I raised an eyebrow at him. He looked at me and leaned in to kiss my forehead.

“I am fine, Liam. You don't need to tell her that I'm tired.”

“Are you tired, Mama?”

“She is, just a little bit, but she's trying to pretend that she is not. Do not believe her right now.” Liam teased before tickling Anastasia, who laughed.

“We're not going to read a story, then we're going to take care of Mama.”

“Now we ca