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Adelle’s Story: The Nymph’s Do-Over

~ADELLE EVANGELINE~

The Second Time Around

I stand in the crypt-like vault beside my husband, weighing the future of the Lover’s Vessel—a decision that will shape the destiny of one of our blended sons.

I have a theory—that the key to restoring balance in this family won’t come from careful or crafty maneuvering. It will come from love.

I open my mouth, fully intending to name Arrik as heir to my family’s vessel—an act of faith I know will save the little lost boy, who, in turn, will save the rest. But instead—

A sudden, sharp prick cuts through my thoughts, as though fate itself has struck me with an arrow.

“Velis,” I hear myself say, and his name echoes against the cavern walls, reverberating as though a chorus of angels has sung it. “He’s been growing into his empathy with every passing day. He is the one who will heal our family.”

My husband pauses, peering into the corners around us as though he too, senses a shift—before coming back to me. “Then Arrik will be his protector.”

“Is that why you’ve tested him so relentlessly?” I ask, attuning myself to this new fate.

His smile is proud. “You’re as sharp as ever.”

“We’ve reached the same conclusion, though our paths are not the same. The Lover’s Vessel shall go to Velis, as his grandfather intended. He will shine his brightest in the arms of his fated soul, and he will lead his brothers by example.”

My husband’s eyes gleam with amusement. He is the sort that, while competing with me, still wants me to win...

Just beyond, in the quiet of the cavern, I almost imagine I hear the soft flap of wings.