Delphinia leaned against the doorframe of the living room, watching Ashton with a soft smile. The boy was on the floor, laughing as he played tug-of-war with Goldie, the golden retriever puppy they had brought home earlier. Goldie, with his bright fur and wagging tail, was tugging at a knotted rope, his small body braced firmly against Ashton's playful strength.
Ashton's laughter filled the room, light and carefree, a sound that warmed Delphinia's heart. "Goldie," Ashton said cheerfully, pulling the rope gently and then letting Goldie yank it out of his hands, "you're strong for a puppy! But don't think I'm giving up."
Delphinia chuckled softly, folding her arms as she leaned more comfortably against the frame. She might have looked calm, but inside, her thoughts were all over the place. What is Evander going to say about this? she wondered, her stomach twisting into knots.
