Inside, he was greeted by the soft laughter of a toddler and the warm voice of the woman waiting for him.
Lilac sat on a pile of plush pillows, gently tossing a stuffed gryphon toward the baby, who squealed in delight. The child's eyes—bright crimson like polished rubies—sparkled with joy.
"Daddy!" Aquila shrieked the moment she saw him, scrambling to her feet and rushing forward with unsteady little steps.
Claude bent down and scooped her into his arms, lifting her high before spinning once, making her giggle uncontrollably. He stopped just to press a soft kiss on her cheek.
"And how is my little princess doing today?" he asked, smiling warmly. "You've been a good girl, haven't you?"
Aquila nodded vigorously. "I am!"
"She has," Lilac chimed in, though her tone carried the usual edge of irritation.
Her arms were crossed, lilac hair cascading in soft waves over her shoulder. "You don't need to be so overprotective of her, Claude."
