Darnick's eyes dropped to the twins — one nestled against Orion's broad chest, the other curled in Megan's arms — and then slowly lifted to Megan herself.
His gaze paused, puzzled, on her snow-white hair. He didn't comment at first. Then he chuckled, low and impressed.
"Well, well. You always did have an eye for the rare things," he said with a wink. "Strong, quiet, and now beautiful company too. Can't say I'm surprised."
Orion, in response, slipped an arm around Megan's waist, pulling her slightly closer. "This is Megan. And these little ones are Kaelen and Callia."
Megan offered a polite nod. Darnick tipped his head in return, still marveling slightly at the white cascade of her hair, though respectfully so.
"We were hoping to settle here," Orion continued. "Just for a while. You're the only one I know well enough in this town to trust. We're not asking for much. Just... a place to start again."
