A dozen times throughout the hours they worked she saw the changes in Ana’s eyes. From cool calm gray to smoky concern. From warm amusement to such deep, depthless compassion that Mel’s own eyes stung in response.

Once she’d been sure she saw pain in them, a wild, terrified pain that faded only after Sebastian spoke sharply to his cousin.

“Only to give her a moment’s relief,” she’d said, and Sebastian had shaken his head.

After that it had happened quickly, and Mel had scrambled to help.

“Oh, wow” was the best she could do as she stared at the mare going about the business of cleaning her new son. “I can’t believe it. There he is. Just like that.”

“It’s always a fresh amazement.” Ana picked up her pouches and her medical instruments. “Psyche’s fine,” she continued as she rolled the instruments in the apron she’d put on before the birthing. “The colt, too. I’ll come back around this evening for another look, but I’d say mother and son are perfect.”

“Thank you, Ana.” Sebastian pulled her against him for a hug.

“My pleasure. You did very well for your first foaling, Mel.”

“It was incredible.”

“Well, I’m going to get cleaned up and head home. I think I’ll sleep till noon.” Ana kissed Sebastian’s cheek, and then, just as casually, kissed Mel’s. “Congratulations.”

“What a way to spend the night,” Mel murmured, and leaned her head against Sebastian’s shoulder.

“I’m glad you were here.”

“So am I. I never saw anything born before. It makes you realize just how fantastic the whole business is.” She yawned hugely, “And exhausting. I wish I could sleep till noon.”

“Why don’t you?” He tilted his head to kiss her. “Why don’t we?”

“I have a business to run. And, since I’m going to be away from it for a couple of weeks, I have a lot of loose ends to tie up.”

“You have one to tie up here.”

“I do?”

“Absolutely.” He swung her up, stained shirt, grubby hands and all. “A few hours ago I was lying in bed thinking about sneaking into one of your dreams with you, or just waking you up.”

“Sneaking into one of my dreams?” She gave him a hand by pushing open the door. “Can you do that?”

“Oh, Sutherland, have some faith. In any case,” he continued, carrying her straight through the kitchen and into the hall. “Before I did either, we were distracted. So, before you go in to work to tie up loose ends, we’ll tie some of our own right here.”

“Interesting thought. You may not have noticed, however, that we’re both a mess.”

“I’ve noticed.” He marched through the master bedroom into the bath. “We’re going to have a shower.”

“Good idea. I think— Sebastian!”