Prophecy

Chapter 26: Uneasy

*Xavia's POV*

I woke with Grace in my arms, and her beautiful warmth was a comforting reminder of our deep love. Our new home felt like a sanctuary—a place where we could escape from the chaos outside and be free and at peace together. As the morning light peaked through the curtains, a soft glow fell on my mate's peaceful, sleeping face.

I couldn't help but smile.

The feeling of pure happiness filled me.

Holding Grace close, I could literally feel her steady, strong heartbeat. It was a rhythm that grounded me—she was safe, here with me. There was something about how she fit so perfectly against me as if we were two pieces of a puzzle meant to be together. I needed this—needed her more than anything.

In moments like these, I realized how deeply I cherished my mate's presence and how essential it was to keep her close. The world outside was unpredictable; I knew my father would try something one day. He clearly wanted Grace dead and for me to kill her. However, within these walls, within our embrace, I found a sense of peace that nothing else could provide.

Unless my mate herself gave it to me.

Grace started to stir in my arms, her eyes slowly opening. She looked at me with a sleepy smile, and my heart swelled affectionately.

"Good morning, love," she whispered.

I brushed a strand of hair from her face.

She nuzzled closer for a moment before stretching and sitting up.

As we got out of bed and started our morning routine, tranquility lingered. I loved these moments—getting ready together and sharing the space we had made our very own. Grace's presence filled the room with a lightness that always made me smile. We fell into our usual rhythm of getting dressed and preparing for the day ahead of us.

"I'm joining you at work today," I said, my voice holding excitement.

Grace turned to me, her eyes brightening with amusement and affection as she teased, "You never miss a chance, do you?"

I laughed, shaking my head.

"Of course not. I love going to work with you. It's always so fun and entertaining. Plus, having Aubrey there makes it even better," I replied, thinking of our friend and her vibrant energy that added an extra layer of joy to our days.

There was something magical about sharing these experiences with Grace. I simply adored watching her in her element and seeing how she interacted with others. Honestly, just being a part of her existence made me appreciate her all the more, and I couldn't wait to see what today would bring.

For the next hour, we finished our routines and headed off toward Grace's job. Raziel awoke amidst the bustle, had breakfast, and then transformed into a snake, slithering up my arm to become a tattoo. His familiar weight against my skin was comforting. The shared walk was relaxing, with the early morning air still cool and crisp. Grace and I held hands the entire time, our fingers intertwined as we chatted about our plans for the day.

I loved the simple intimacy of our relationship and the way it grounded us.

It didn't take long for us to reach the restaurant.

As we approached, I could sense the lively buzz of activity inside, a sure sign that Aubrey was already there, setting everything up. The rich aroma of coffee and freshly baked goods welcomed us when we stepped through the door. Next came the various morning preparations, but only a couple of patrons came. I could hear Aubrey's cheerful voice from the back, and I smiled, knowing we were in for another day of shared laughter and hard work.