The new day arrived as the first morning of the new year, but looking outside the window, Annalise saw nothing but dark clouds and snow-covered grounds. Even the forest looked dead.
Determined not to let the gloomy weather dampen her mood, she turned away from the window and shifted her gaze toward the bed, where Valerius was still fast asleep. His beautiful silver hair was spread across the pillow while he slept soundly. He appeared so relaxed that it made a smile bloomed on Annalise's lips.
She had woken up quite early and was unable to return to sleep, so she decided to get dressed and help Aunt Claire and others in the kitchen with the preparation of the new year's first meal.
Before she started getting ready for the day, she cast a simple spell to keep any sounds from waking up Valerius. Her fingertips danced with magic as she whispered the incantation, ensuring he would enjoy a peaceful slumber a little while longer.
