Chapter 311: Illusions

Astrid’s POV

The sun kissed my skin as I stood on the shoreline, watching Ryker and Killian splash in the surf.

Laughter carried on the breeze, mingling with the rhythmic crash of the waves.

For once, I allowed myself to relax, to pretend that everything was exactly as it should be.

We were like a real family bonding together at the beach. Ryker’s smile – bright and carefree – was enough to make m believe in the illusion, even just for a moment.

I imagined everything was well with us, Killian and I were still married and that Ryker thinks I’m his mother.