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--Alyssa--

Meridith couldn’t stop smiling as she leaned closer to get a better look at the twins nestled in my arms. “Pups? They are so cute and look just like Xavier,” she cooed, her eyes sparkling with affection.

Xavier, however, was lost in thought, his gaze fixed on our babies with an intensity that made me chuckle. He seemed entirely absorbed, as if the world outside didn’t exist. Seeing him so captivated by the sight of our children softened my heart, but I couldn’t shake the nagging guilt that lingered beneath the surface.

Everyone in the room seemed unbothered by the events outside, as if the weight of what was happening hadn’t reached them. They were caught up in the joy of the moment, admiring the twins, and it made me feel strangely out of place. I was here, surrounded by warmth and family, while others were grieving just beyond the palace walls. The contrast was hard to ignore, and I knew I had to act soon.

“Can we break the curse now?” I asked, my voice cutting through th