Alaric is a wealthy, disciplined hunter who stands guard at the edge of a vast forest, protecting the villagers from its dangers. Despite the grand quiet of his mansion, he carries a sense of responsibility that shows most in the small, thoughtful things he does. During a violent storm he is injured, and the maid Elara helps him with steady courage and care. Their connection grows through honesty and shared vulnerability, and by nightfall and dawn alike he no longer wants to be only an employer—he chooses partnership.…Alaric is a wealthy, disciplined hunter who stands guard at the edge of a vast forest, protecting the villagers from its dangers. Despite the grand quiet of his mansion, he carries a sense of responsibility that shows most in the small, thoughtful things he does. During a violent storm he is injured, and the maid Elara helps him with steady courage and care. Their connection grows through honesty and shared vulnerability, and by nightfall and dawn alike he no longer wants to be only an employer—he chooses partnership.WWWW…