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Killian’s eyes softened slightly, and his lips curved up into a smile. Yvette felt a flutter in her chest at the sight of his smile. It was a rare thing, and she hadn’t realized how much she missed it until now.

“Very well,” he said, his voice warmer than it had been for some time. “We’ll enjoy it together.”

Yvette bit her lower lip, a flush creeping up her neck as she realized just how much she was enjoying this moment—the three of them, walking through the streets of Braemore, as a family.

The town square of Braemore had been transformed into a sight of festivity. Ribbons of bright, cheerful colors fluttered in the wind, strung from every post and tree, while lanterns hung overhead, casting a soft golden glow as the afternoon sun began to dip.

The air was filled with the sounds of laughter and music, the townspeople’s voices rising in song as they danced and mingled, a joyful noise of life.

Stalls lined the square, selling everything from sweet treats to handwoven trinkets, and the scent of roasted meats and baked goods wafted through the air, mingling with the earthy fragrance of fresh flowers. Children ran through the crowd, their laughter high and carefree, while adults chatted and bargained. The town was alive with warmth, the community in its element.

Yvette, Killian, and Maisie wandered through the festivities, taking in the lively scene. Maisie, full of excitement, bounced on the balls of her feet, her eyes wide with wonder. She wanted to be everywhere at once, running from one game to another, her small hands reaching for everything in sight.

“Papa, can I play?” she asked eagerly, tugging at Killian’s sleeve. Her little voice was full of enthusiasm, her face bright with anticipation.

Killian glanced at Yvette, a slight hesitation in his eyes before he answered, his hand still resting protectively on Maisie’s shoulder.

“Not yet, love. I do not want ye to get lost in all this crowd.”

Yvette placed her hand gently on his shoulder, a smile tugging at her lips.

“We’re in your Duchy, Killian,” she said, her tone light and reassuring. “If Maisie gets lost, she’ll be found before we even leave the town square.”

Killian’s lips pressed together, still uncertain, but he gave a slight nod, his gaze softening. “I suppose ye’re right.”

Before they could continue, an elderly couple approached them. Their faces, though warm, carried a faint frown, and their eyes rested upon Yvette with quiet scrutiny. Killian greeted them with a nod, calling them by name. The couple’s frown deepened, but their voices were kind, albeit firm.

“Is this our duchess?” the elderly woman asked, her tone neither harsh nor overly friendly, but there was a definite edge of disapproval.

“Yes,” Killian replied, his voice steady, though a hint of tension lingered in his jaw. “This is Lady Yvette, the Duchess of Braemore.”

The couple exchanged a glance, and the man spoke, his words polite but unmistakably pointed.

“We were expecting to see our new duchess among the people long before now. We’ve heard little of her presence among the residents.”

Yvette pressed her lips together, feeling the weight of their words. She looked down briefly, composing herself before answering.

“I don’t have an excuse,” she said softly, but with a sincerity that resonated in her voice. “I’ve been so focused on taking care of my new family that I neglected my larger family here in Braemore. It was an oversight, and for that, I apologize.”

The elderly couple exchanged a glance, their frowns slowly lifting, and though they said nothing more, their eyes softened.

“Well, it’s good to know you’ve been busy,” the woman said with a smile, her tone more welcoming now. “We’re glad to see you here, Your Grace.”

“Welcome to Braemore,” the man added, offering a nod.

As the conversation ended, other residents of Braemore approached, and Yvette was surrounded by well-wishers. The townspeople expressed their warm greetings, and with each smile and handshake, Yvette felt her place in the community slowly solidifying.

It was strange, this position she found herself in—both new and old at once—but she was determined to make it work. And for the first time since her arrival, she allowed herself to fully embrace the moment.

After a while, the family found themselves alone again. Maisie, now free of restraint, immediately bolted towards the children’s games, her excitement contagious. Killian hesitated, glancing at Yvette as if still unsure.

“You can let her go, Killian,” Yvette said, a teasing glint in her eye. “She’s not made of glass.”

Killian’s brows furrowed, but he relented, nodding as Maisie disappeared into the crowd of children.

Yvette couldn’t help but watch the little girl with a soft smile on her face. Yvette’s heart swelled at the sight, but her attention was quickly drawn back to reality when she heard a small cry.

“Oh no!” Yvette gasped, seeing Maisie stumble and fall to the ground, her little knees scraping the rough cobblestones. She was immediately on her feet, hurrying toward her, her heart racing with panic.