“Miss Waleria, don’t be ridiculous. What’s this about a son? I simply wanted to invite you to join Tempris House and become one of its elders,” James explained.

“Oh,” Waleria responded, realizing things were different from what she had assumed. She felt a tinge of embarrassment color her cheeks. After a brief moment of hesitation, she continued, “I don’t mind becoming an elder even if only in name, but are there any associated benefits?”

“Benefits?” This time, it was James who was taken aback. T