8 MONTHS LATER…

ALDRIC

I was reading over the latest agreements for the Nocturne Realm, seated in the library.

That was the official name proclaimed for the fusion of the two former kingdoms I now ruled.

I, who had never wanted any responsibilities to begin with, ended up as King of everything.

But for my queen and my little princess, I would chain myself to whatever was necessary.

Lowering my head, I pressed a kiss to the soft black hair of my mate, who dozed against my chest, sprawled along the plush sofa.

I set the papers aside and reached down to caress her now-large belly.

The moment was drawing near, and my connection with our daughter was growing stronger and stronger.

As soon as my fingers touched Valeria’s skin, I felt a flutter beneath my hand, pulling a smile from me.

"My beautiful pup, soon I’ll meet you. Your daddy is dying to see you and hold you in his arms."

I extended the thought through our bond, and the movement beneath my fingers intensified, stretching the skin of