Page 117 of A Hunter for Luna

But before the shadow of worry could fully take hold, Benedetto's face brightened.

"Father's doing better," he said with a note of relief. "He's started taking short walks in the garden. I think being here, surrounded by family, has done him good."

I smiled, picturing Marco's frail form ambling among the rose bushes. Out of Vala’s shadow and the reach of her spells, I had grown fond of the old man, appreciating his quiet wisdom and gentle humor.

"It's wonderful to see him recovering," I said. "He deserves this peace."

Sofia glanced up from her seat by the window, her green eyes thoughtful.

"It's amazing what a change of environment can do," she said. "And the lingering effects of the curse that was making Marco die slowly of a wasting disease have been lifted, thanks to your disruption magic."

I couldn't help a bit of pride at her words, remembering the moment I had unraveled the remnants of the dark spell that had been slowly draining the life from Benedetto's father. It was a small thing, really. But it made a difference. Maybe I was stronger than I realized.

I smiled at Sofia, grateful for her support. "I'm just glad I could help," I said. "Marco deserves a chance to enjoy his life, free from the shadow of that curse."

"Speaking of family," Palma said, "have you two started thinking about names for the little one?"

I laughed, resting my free hand on the swell of my belly. "We've tossed around a few ideas, but nothing's stuck yet."

"I still think 'Lucky' has a nice ring to it." Benedetto ducked as I swatted playfully at his arm.

"Speaking of fortune," he said, "Francesco has become more lucid in the past few months."

Sofia continued knitting. “When Soulrider examined your brother, he determined that some of the damage appears permanent. He's done what he could, and curbed the violence Francesco does to himself, but he's uncertain if further tampering might worsen his condition."

A heavy silence settled over the room, each of us grappling with the weight of Francesco's fate.

"It's heartbreaking," I said quietly. "There are moments when he seems almost calm. But then the madness takes hold once more."

Benedetto's expression darkened, a fierce determination burning in his eyes. "I won't give up on him," he said firmly. "We'll keep looking for a way to help him. I won't rest until we find a solution."

I reached out, placing a comforting hand on his arm. "We'll find a way," I said. "We'll keep searching until we find the key to unlocking Francesco's mind."

Sofia interrupted the heavy moment. "Perhaps you’ll find a way with training," she said gently. “If not you, perhaps Rose. She’llraise a sigil one day. I've rarely seen someone with such innate talent."

I turned and beamed at my sister. Rose ducked her head, a shy blush coloring her cheeks. "It's all thanks to your teaching," she said as she fidgeted with the hem of her tunic.

I was so proud of her. She was thriving. It was more than I ever hoped for.

Rose's magic danced around her, a shimmering aura that grew brighter with each passing day. The lightness in her step, the joy that radiated from her, it was a far cry from the timid, uncertain girl she had been.

"You've come so far," I said. "I always knew you had greatness within you. And now, the world is starting to see it too."

Rose's blush deepened, but a tentative smile tugged at the corners of her mouth. "Thank you.”

A sudden movement within me pulled me from my thoughts. I gasped, my hand flying to my swollen belly as the baby gave a strong, insistent nudge against my palm. A bright smile spread across my face.

"There it is again." I laughed, pressing my hand more firmly against the spot. "The baby's kicking."

Benedetto's face lit up, his expression softening as he placed his hand over mine. He leaned in, his lips brushing against my temple in a gentle kiss. "It's amazing."

The sun dipped lower on the horizon, painting the room in a warm, golden glow. I leaned into Benedetto's embrace, savoring the peaceful moment as Pip nestled closer, his scaly form draped along my lap like a living blanket.

We’d fought hard for this happiness, and no one would take it away from us.

CHAPTER THIRTY-NINE

BENEDETTO

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