Chapter 222

SERAPHINA Three months had passed since the leadership transition announcement, and the change was remarkable. Every morning, I woke up no longer with a packed Council meeting agenda or crises to deal with immediately. Instead, I woke up peacefully, enjoying my morning coffee with Kaelos while watching Alaric and Celine begin their leadership routines. This morning, I stood on our balcony, watching Alaric lead the morning briefing with Beta Archer and the security team. Even from a distance, I could see how the senior warriors listened with respect—no longer viewing him as “Young Master” but as their future Alpha. “He's growing up so fast,” Kaelos said, joining me with two cups of hot tea. “Too fast,” I agreed with a slightly sad smile. “It feels like just yesterday he was learning to walk, and now he's leading security briefings.” Kaelos wrapped his arms around me from behind, his chin resting on my shoulder. “Do you miss the days when they were little?” he asked softly. “Every day,”