Another week slipped by.
By now, Brandon's visits had become as predictable as the moonrise. His convoy arrived at Moon Estate around the same hour each day, and he always left before moonfall. He never lingered once it was time to go, never asked Emma to talk about the past, and never brought up the bond severance papers again. He simply spent his time with Bryan and Charlotte, then left when his duties called him away.
And somehow, that made it harder for Emma to keep her distance.
---
Brandon had barely stepped into the villa when Charlotte came running after him, her little feet pattering across the floor.
Meanwhile, after greeting his father and giving him a quick hug, Bryan had already hurried back to his science project, leaving Brandon alone with Lottie.
"Father, wait!"
He turned just as she reached him and scooped her into his arms. Her laughter filled the hallway as he lifted her slightly and carried her a few steps before setting her down.
