25 The Horned Woman

Camila

"If you need anything, just call me," Ronan said, holding his ceremonial cap tightly in his hands.

He had been summoned to the headquarters, and there was an emergency. He might even be sent to a different country.

I could see the worry in his eyes. Arya had cried all night, and I had worried for him, too, but these weren't peaceful times. We knew there was a possibility he wouldn't be coming home, so we braced ourselves for it.

Ronan held Katya in his arms and kissed her little hand.

"Daddy will be back before you know it," he told her softly.

She touched his cheek and giggled, her laughter a soothing balm to our worried hearts.

Katya was always a joy, bringing light and laughter to us all.

"Take care of her," he said to me, his voice filled with trust and concern.

Honestly, he didn't need to ask. She was mine, too, but I understood his reason for saying it.

"Don't worry. I will make sure of it," Arya chimed in, trying to sound reassuring. Ronan's smile dropped instantly.