Chase POV
The air felt lighter as we walked out of the suite, Ash skipping ahead, his laughter echoing in the hallway. His joy was contagious, and even Leila wore a small smile despite her usual guarded demeanor. This was what I had imagined—what I had hoped for. A fresh start with my mate and the boy I'd already come to think of as my own.
The car was waiting for us just outside, the early morning sun casting a golden glow on the sleek black vehicle. I carried the bags, Ash's tiny backpack slung over my shoulder, while Leila carried herself with that mix of strength and grace that I admired so much.
Ash jumped into the back seat with all the energy of a child who had no idea how heavy the world could be. "Can we listen to music?" he asked, already fiddling with the radio as he squeezed himself in between the front seat.
"Sure, buddy," I said, ruffling his hair as I placed the bags in the trunk. "You're the DJ."
