Chapter 164 - The Tapestry of Years

Time has a way of weaving moments into memories, days into seasons, and years into the rich tapestry of a life fully lived. As I stood at the window of our family library watching the autumn leaves dance across the estate grounds, I marveled at how twenty years could feel both eternal and fleeting.

"Lost in thought again?" Alaric's deep voice came from behind me, followed by his arms encircling my waist.

I leaned back against his chest, smiling. "Just watching the seasons change. It happens faster every year."

"Hmm." He rested his chin on my shoulder. "Remember when Lysander was small enough to ride on my shoulders to watch the leaf fall? Now he's taller than I am."

"And every bit as intimidating in the King's court, from what I hear," I said with pride.