The courtyard of Draven Villa was bathed in soft morning sunlight, the stone pathways glistening faintly with dew. The faint fragrance of blooming jasmine drifted through the air, mixing with the earthy smell of damp grass. I followed the laughter of the twins, Mireya and Maxen, their voices echoing like birdsong, tugging me out of my thoughts and into their world.
Mireya darted ahead, her braids bouncing as she ran toward a small fountain shaped like a lion's head. Maxen trailed behind her but only because he stopped now and then to kick a pebble or try balancing on the edge of the pathway. They were only five years old, yet their energy could have powered the entire villa.
"Slow down, you two," I called, my steps more measured as I followed them across the courtyard.
Mireya spun around, grinning. "You're too slow, Sister Lea!" She stuck out her tongue before hopping onto the stone rim of the fountain. "Catch me if you can!"
