#Chapter 15: Butterflies

Elara I gasped, nearly tumbling off the edge of the bed, but Alaric’s swift reflexes saved me. He caught my wrist and pulled me back up with ease. My heart was still racing from the close call, and I found myself staring into his eyes once again. I didn’t know what to say, what to do. I just laid there, pressed firmly against Alaric’s body. His torso was firm and warm beneath my palms, his fingers callused and steady around my wrist. But the spell was quickly broken. “Careful,” he said calmly, releasing my wrist. “We wouldn’t want you injured before the party.” I swallowed hard and moved away, trying to compose myself. “Right. Sorry, I must’ve lost my balance.” He nodded, his expression unreadable. “Don’t forget, the children’s welcome party is today. You need to be ready.” I blinked, momentarily disoriented. “Oh, that’s today?” “Yes,” he confirmed. “We’ll take the kids to pick out outfits first.” I glanced at the clock on the bedside table. It was nearly seven o