The Lyma family members were sitting in their grand dining hall, enjoying a rare moment of tranquility amid their often chaotic lives.
Duke Damien was at the head of the table, with Duchess Annalise by his side and their five daughters spread around them.
The golden rays of the morning sun filtered through the tall windows, casting a warm, soft light over the entire hall.
"I've honestly missed this," Seraphina said, breaking the comfortable silence. Her eyes twinkled with genuine happiness as she savored a bite of her breakfast. "Just us, talking and having breakfast as a family."
The Duchess nodded, her eyes softening with agreement.
"It's a shame Theo isn't here with us," she added, a hint of concern lacing her words. She turned towards her husband, "Why did you allow him to go on such a dangerous mission, Damien?"
Duke Damien looked up from his plate, meeting his wife's gaze.