The first item on Lyra's schedule after her short holiday was a prenatal visit, a quiet start to what she hoped would become a steady new routine.
Days before Camela arrived in Mistvale, Dante reminded her never to mention Volkhan's name. Here in Mistvale, he used his maternal family's name, Cortez.
He warned her that even a single slip could bring consequences they would rather avoid.
Lyra was applying cream, seated in front of the mirror, while Rowan stood in the walk-in closet. His eyes were fixed on the watch on his wrist when he asked for the third time,
"Are you sure you don't want me to send you? Did he really hire a cab to pick you up?"
"Yes. Mr. Cortez's house is opposite your office in South Mistvale. No need to worry. I'll return by lunch."
After breakfast together, Rowan waited until the promised cab arrived before heading to his car and driving to the Pierce office tower.
