Page 177 of Destiny of a King

“You just said⁠—”

“I said I will need help. I did not say it had to come from you.”

Fiora laughed. “Too late. I heard you.”

“So did I,” Adira called from the bed.

Dravic turned toward her to see her smiling, then she yawned. That was enough.

“Everyone out,” he ordered.

Tharne looked at him. “You do remember she is my daughter.”

“And you remember she is my wife who just gave birth to twins. She needs rest.”

“I am fine,” Adira said, though another yawn provided proof of her husband’s words.

Dravic turned a smug smile on her.

Bria tugged at her husband’s hand to follow her. “He’s right. You should sleep.”

Kaelan followed, though not before congratulating the new parents one more time. “Much luck and joy.”

Faith kissed her daughter and then went to the cradle, bending to kiss each of her grandchildren.

Tharne followed her, pausing beside Dravic. “You best take good care of them.”

“I don’t need to be cautioned about keeping my family safe. I will always make sure of that.”

Tharne looked like he was about to say more, but a warning glare from Dravic had the warlord simply nodding.

Fiora was the only one who remained and Dravic sent that same glare on her.

“I’m going. I’m going.” She flew over to the cradle, hovered above the sleeping twins, and whispered, “Don’t worry. I will teach you both how to annoy your da.”

“Out!” Dravic ordered.

Her laughter followed her through the door.

Finally, there was silence.

Dravic closed the door and returned to the cradle. He checked both bairns once more before approaching the bed.

Adira smiled as he sat beside her. “You chased everyone away.”

“You are tired.”

“You must be as well. The night grows late.”

“I did not give birth to twins,” he said, doubting she needed a reminder.

“Nay. You merely behaved as though you might not survive it.”

Dravic winced. “You were in pain. I could not stand it. And you failed to mention there were two.”

Adira’s smile widened. “I wanted to surprise you.”

“You succeeded.”