Chapter 28

Seris’s POV

“How long will you be gone, Mommy?” Nessa tugged at my cream- colored dress, her small fingers brushing the soft cotton at my hip as I stood before the tall mirror. Valeria was gently brushing my dark hair into a loose chignon, and Saelis dabbed a light dusting of powder over the scars on my face.

“I don’t know yet, sweetheart,” I said to Nessa, meeting her wide eyes in the reflection. “But I promise I’ll be back soon.”

“Can I come with you?” She pouted, and my heart ached.

I managed a gentle smile. “I’m sorry, baby, but this outing is just for your father and me. You’ll stay here with Moonbun, and Saelis, and Mama Valeria. You’ll be safe—and I’ll see you very soon, okay?” I stroked her hair, and she nodded gravely before hopping onto the bed.

Valeria stepped back from my reflection and placed her hands lightly on my shoulders. “You look radiant, Seris. Ronan will be thrilled.”

Saelis grinned, setting aside her brush. “He won’t