Page 30

"I can't wait to meet our child," he murmured.

"Me neither," I said, squeezing his hand. "They'll be here before we know it."

He rested his head against my knee. "And we'll tell them stories of how their parents helped bring peace to Magnus Terra."

I chuckled. "They might think we're exaggerating."

"Perhaps. But the truth will shine through."

I gazed out the window at the moonlit landscape. "Thornix?"

"Yes?"

"Thank you for believing in us."

He lifted his eyes to mine. "Always."

As sleep began to tug at my eyelids, I felt an overwhelming sense of gratitude. For Thornix, for our friends, for the life growing within me.

Thirteen

Thornix

I watched Acacia from a distance as she stood beneath the broad canopy of our tree home. Her golden hair cascaded over her shoulders, catching the dappled sunlight. She rested her hands on the gentle curve of her belly, a sight that filled me with awe.

"She or he's active today," Acacia called out, a soft smile playing on her lips.

I stepped closer, the earthy scent of the forest wrapping around us. "May I?" I asked, reaching a tentative hand toward her.

She nodded, eyes sparkling. I placed my palm against her stomach. A faint kick tapped against my hand. A thrill shot through me. "Strong, just like her mother."

Acacia laughed lightly. "Or stubborn, like his father."

I grinned. "I can't argue with that."

The leaves rustled overhead, whispering secrets only the trees knew. I felt the pulse of life all around us, the forest in sync with our joy. "The time is approaching," I said softly. "We should make preparations."

She tilted her head. "I've been thinking the same. Our home feels small."

"Then we'll expand it," I replied without hesitation. "Create space for our growing family."

Her fingertips brushed against mine. "You always have a solution."

"For you, anything is possible."

We spent the next few days planning and gathering materials. Together, we coaxed the trees to lend their branches, weaving new rooms into the living wood.

"Here, this can be the nursery," Acacia suggested, pointing to a cozy nook bathed in soft light.

I nodded. "It's perfect."

She wove delicate vines into the walls, her movements graceful. Watching her, my heart swelled.

"What's on your mind?" she asked, catching me staring.

"Just thinking about how lucky I am."

She shook her head with a smile. "You're flattering me."