Chapter 57

SERAPHINA Monday morning felt different as I entered the office building. Perhaps it was because of the weekend full of surprises—dinner with Kaelos, an unexpected meeting with Darius and Lilith, and a long conversation with Kaelos about our future. Or maybe it was because the autumn air was starting to feel cold, making everything feel sharper, more real. I had just sat down at my desk when a familiar scent greeted my sense of smell. Lavender and vanilla with a hint of mint—a scent I knew very well. “Seraphina!” I turned around and almost dropped the cup of coffee I was holding. Callista was standing at the entrance to my work area, wearing a formal black blazer and carrying a brown leather bag. Her hair, which was usually loose, was now neatly pulled back into a bun. “Callista?” I got up from my chair, confusion evident on my face. “What are you doing here?” A wide smile lit up her face. “Surprise! Starting today, I'll be working here. Strategic Planning Department, under the direct