Riding

The next morning, Ayesha and Lyra ate quietly inside Alaric's tent while the rest of the camp was already bustling, preparing for the journey ahead.

She couldn't help but notice how attentive Alaric was, especially toward Lyra. He even placed food on the child's plate, his movements unusually gentle for someone of his stature.

"Thank you, Your Majesty," Lyra said politely, glancing at him.

Alaric offered a soft smile. "You should start getting used to calling me Father from now on, Lyra," he said calmly. "And your Aunt Ayesha, she'll be your Mother. Once we arrive in the Capital, I'll officially declare you as my daughter. You'll carry the Kingsley name."

Ayesha froze for a moment, her hand tightening around the spoon in her grip. She didn't say a word, simply observing the interaction with unreadable eyes.

But deep inside… her heart weighed heavy.