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SEVENTY-EIGHT

T hree months later, Zina stood on the deck of their new home—a spacious riverside cabin where forest met open meadow. Early morning light filtered through leaves, casting dappled patterns across weathered wood. Behind her, preparations continued for the dinner party they’d host that evening—their first proper gathering since moving in together.

Inside, Xai arranged furniture with exacting precision, occasionally calling out questions about her preferences. She smiled, hearing the underlying message in each inquiry: this space belonged to both of them, their tastes and needs equally important.

The past months had brought significant changes beyond their living arrangements. The Founding Pyre maintained perfect stability under their shared guardianship. Purrfect Oasis thrived, its reputation enhanced by rumors of special “energy work” that left supernatural clients feeling uniquely balanced.

Most surprisingly, Luciana and Noven had officially announced their courtship, scandalizing certain council members who considered dragons and big cats incompatible. Xai merely raised an eyebrow at the gossip, commenting dryly, “Apparently, it’s becoming fashionable.”

Finishing her coffee, Zina headed inside to help with dinner preparations. The open-concept kitchen filled with morning light as she and Xai moved around each other with practiced ease.

“Rust called earlier,” Xai mentioned, slicing vegetables with dragon-enhanced precision. “He and Kalyna have some announcement planned for tonight.”

“I think I can guess what it is.” Zina grinned, retrieving spices from their alphabetized rack. “Kalyna’s been turning green whenever anyone mentions seafood. Classic early pregnancy sign.”

Xai paused, knife suspended mid-cut. “A child? That’s... significant.”

“Their mating ceremony was almost a year ago.” She bumped his hip playfully. “What did you expect?”

“I hadn’t considered it.” His expression turned thoughtful. “Blended heritage children are rare.”

The unspoken question hung between them. They’d discussed many aspects of their future, but family planning remained nebulous territory.

Zina approached the subject directly as was her nature. “Are you thinking about dragon-lion cubs in our future?”

His golden eyes met hers, unreadable for a moment before softening. “I’ve lived centuries without considering offspring. But with you...” He set down the knife, giving her his full attention. “The possibility holds appeal I never anticipated.”

Relief flooded through her. “Good to know. Though maybe we enjoy being just us for a while?”

“Agreed.” His smile returned. “We have time.”