Prophecy

Chapter 44: Azriel

*God's POV*

We reached the balcony at the end of the Hall of Records that hovered above the City below. As I observed my daughter, my heart swelled with an intense, overwhelming love. I had monitored Grace in countless situations, watching from above while she faced dangers and challenges that would make even the strongest falter, but... nothing compared to the way she looked at Xavia. Her eyes never wavered—locked onto her mate with an intensity that spoke volumes. It was as if the entire universe ceased to exist beyond Xavia, and it was as if every breath Grace took was for her alone. The love she felt was not just visible—it was a living, breathing force radiating from her soul.

Grace's vigilance was unwavering, and a protective aura surrounded Xavia with an unspoken promise of safety. Every fiber of her being was attuned to Xavia, ready to spring into action at the slightest hint of danger or uneasiness. It already occurred several times during our talk, and I couldn't stop my eyes and body from sensing it each time. I could see it in the way her muscles subtly tensed, in the way her hand hovered close, ready to reach out and pull Xavia to safety if the need arose.

There was a quiet, almost fierce determination in her stance, a readiness that spoke of the lengths she would go to protect the one she loved.

As I watched them, I felt immense pride in my soul. Grace had found someone who not only completed her but who drew out the best in her, someone for whom she would move Heaven and Earth. This love, this deep connection, was rare and precious. It was evident in every small movement, every glance, every breath. I saw a reflection of the love I had always hoped she would find. My daughter had inherited all of my best qualities, and it showed.

Xavia's movements caught my attention.

Though she had responded to me, there was a lingering tension in the air around her. I could sense everything in everyone, and what I felt from her was more intense than all the angels in Heaven combined. I watched as she cleared her throat, a small, almost imperceptible gesture, followed by a deep, steadying breath... It was a minor action, yet it spoke volumes. I saw the weight she carried, the burden of uncertainty. She was readying herself, mustering the courage to face whatever might come, bracing against the unknown with a quiet resolve that I found both admirable and heartbreaking.

Her eyes had trouble keeping contact with mine, and I understood—she had no idea how much I was about to tell her.

It was very painful for me, too.

I genuinely empathize with her.

But it wasn't just her resolve that moved me. Looking around, I saw the unwavering support surrounding Xavia—those who loved her and stood by her side without hesitation. They were ready, too, their own emotions mirroring her determination. I could sense their readiness to lend their strength, to offer comfort in whatever form it might be needed. There was a profound unity among them, a shared resolve to stand together, no matter what. Xavia was not facing this alone, and the love and support that enveloped her were just as powerful as the strength she was trying to summon within herself.

It was in moments like these that I saw the beauty of Grace's chosen family—a family built on love, trust, and support.

I couldn't be happier for my daughter.

A sense of deep happiness filled me as I observed them.

Azriel... thank you... for everything...

Xavia's mother had given me a gift beyond measure by creating a powerful daughter full of love and potential. Through Grace, my one dream had been fulfilled—I finally had a true child of my own. And now, as I looked at the life she had built and the love she had found, I couldn't help but feel overwhelming joy. The feeling was so deep that I could cry; I even felt the tears stinging my eyes.