Chapter 168

Soft morning light filtered through the windows as Elyana stirred, her lashes fluttering open slowly. Something felt… off. Her brows furrowed faintly. There was a scent lingering in the room, one she hadn't smelled in a long time. Familiar. Faintly masculine. It tugged at something in her memory. She turned her head and saw both her children nestled close, sleeping peacefully. Little Jessica’s tiny fingers were curled around hers, and Joxan’s hand was holding the other—tightly, protectively. As if even in sleep, they were afraid she’d slip away. A small smile bloomed on her face, touched with warmth and sorrow. Carefully, she slid her hands free and pulled the blanket up to cover them again, tucking it gently around their shoulders. Just then, her phone buzzed. The sound was soft, but in the stillness of the morning, it felt loud. She looked toward the bedside table and reached over to check it. Her smile deepened slightly when she saw the name glowing on the screen. Austin. She swiped