Chapter 159

SERAPHINA Seven months. I stood in the doorway of the nursery, one hand resting on my aching back and the other on my belly, which now felt like it was carrying a giant watermelon. The room that used to be a small living room in the east wing of the mansion had now been transformed into a world of pastel colors and wonders. The walls were a soft cream color with hand-painted murals of the moon and stars by local artist Pack. Two oak cribs stood side by side in the middle of the room—one with a light blue blanket embroidered with the name “Alaric,” and the other with a pink blanket embroidered with “Celine.” Names we chose after weeks of debating, laughing, and finally finding the perfect ones. “Don't stand too long.” I turned to find Kaelos stepping in with a tray of herbal tea and cookies. His expression was serious—as it had been lately. “I've only been standing for five minutes,” I said with an amused smile. “That's four minutes too long,” he replied, setting the tray on the small t