Chapter 59. A Brother's Vow

Sitting on the edge of the bed, I watched Lottie sleep. The soft glow of the bedside lamp cast gentle shadows across her face, highlighting the delicate curve of her cheek and the flutter of her dark eyelashes against her skin. Her breaths were slow and steady, a soothing rhythm that momentarily eased the storm inside me.

My fingers traced light circles on her back, feeling the warmth of her through the thin fabric of her shirt. Each touch was a silent promise to protect her, no matter the cost. My gaze drifted to her growing belly, and I noticed a subtle movement—a tiny ripple beneath the surface. Without thinking, I rested my hand gently on her stomach. Almost immediately, a small kick pressed back against my palm.

A flood of emotions washed over me. The sensation was both beautiful and bittersweet, pulling me back to memories I'd locked away. I was transported to a time when I'd sit just like this with Emma, my late mate. I could almost hear her laught