Chapter 682. You Don't Have a Choice

Maeve

The grand balcony overlooking the glimmering city of Moonrise spills soft light into the complex and lovely front garden. Beyond the tall, exterior castle walls, the city stretches under a blanket of stars, lights flickering in tune with my own heartbeat.

What a day it’s been. I’m not sure how I feel. Relieved that Brie and Kieran are okay? Yes, I feel that. Happy to be an aunt? Of course. Anxious about the future and what it holds for my sister and her son?

I look down at my hands as they curl around the railing then sink into a nearby chair and hang my head.

Minutes creep by in silence. The entire family is going to be gathering here over the next couple of days to celebrate Brie, Logan, and Kieran, and his safe, but early, arrival into the world. Yet, I feel shockingly alone as I gaze out over the city and the lake, which reflects the stars above like a pool of diamonds.

There will come a time when… I’m alone here. I know Grandpa and Grandma me