The five of them sat together in the center of the tent, forming a small circle.
Aiden and Nadi sat side by side. Across from them sat Nadi's mother, while Naya and Nayo settled close together beside her.
For a little while, nobody seemed certain how to begin.
Nadi kept her hands folded in her lap. Every so often, she glanced at Aiden, then quickly looked away when she caught him smiling at her.
Nayo noticed.
She leaned toward her cousin and whispered, "Why is Lord Aiden here with you two?"
Naya grinned.
"You'll know once she explains."
Nayo narrowed her eyes at him.
Across from them, Aiden looked toward the Mother. She sat with her back straight and her hands resting neatly on her knees. Her long black hair, streaked with gray, fell over one shoulder. Though she carried herself with the calm dignity of a mother and elder, the relief in her red eyes was still unmistakable.
Aiden's gaze lingered for a moment.
A mischievous thought began to take shape.
