Aysling lay exhausted, her sweaty body pressed against Azura's chest, trembling from the pain, while her mate looked even paler than her, visibly distressed. He was constantly prepared to share his magic with her and even bleed if necessary to restore her strength.

Olivia and Malla stood beside Merkat, bringing clean cloths and water, encouraging Aysling to keep pushing through.

“Come on, sweetheart. Just a little more,” Olivia whispered, wiping the sweat from her daughter's forehead, her heart