A Parting Gift

Several new builders have joined the crew, and the structure is nearly standing whole again. Freshly sawn timber fills the evening air with its sharp, earthy scent.

“Miss Lyra!” Tearing past his grandfather, Gideon’s young grandson sprints toward me, only to skid to a sudden halt the second Lorcan shifts directly into his path, cutting off the boy’s line of sight with his broad, towering frame.