Rose PoV
I panted after doing a dozen pushups at the base on the giant oak hill. My food wanted to leave my body.
Saffron, meanwhile made it look simple. He was on his twentieth pushup, his movements smooth and controlled, his breathing steady. His marine training had clearly given him an edge, and I couldn't help but feel a twinge of envy as I watched him.
Anis gooed as if cheering me on. Her granny Dahlia held her in her lap, watching from a stone seat she made for herself. Setsuka sat beside her, holding a giddy Sebastian.
"You've got this, Rose!" Setsuka said, her tone light and teasing. "Just think of how strong you'll be when you're done."
I groaned from exhaustion, but forced a smile. I needed to grow stronger, for my baby girl.
Saffron finished his set of pushups and stood, brushing off his hands. His purple eyes, sharp and unwavering, scanned me with the same intensity he used to assess a mission. "Good effort, Rose. Ready for the next part or want to rest?"
