Starlight and Ashes (six)

tagging: @runesandfaes @acourtofredqueens @havilliardandgalathynius@fiery-feyre @starzablaze @tog-trash @evyfox @rhysands-highladyame233 @high-lady-of-rochambeau @musicmaam @empress-ofbloodshed@illyrianbeauty @literarynonsense @thisisvelaris @wolffrising @rhysand-darling @throne-of-wingspans @hail-and-farewell @lady-katkatdestiny14444 @the-dream-team-of-prythian @avocadobubbbletea @lorcanswife @hxylady @abillionlittlepieces @my-life-is-a-drama-book@akranick-author @lottie289 @mariamuses @leulivy @booklover242@heyme231 @whydoyoucareaboutmyusername @my-ships-will-never-be-sank @rhysisdaddyaf @highladyjel @halcyon-havoc @alexisnm95 @a-canadian-fae @abimomeopectore @herondalesaremycupofale @hxghladyweaver-of-the-wood @rowaelinsmut @booklover41802 **please send me an ask if you would like to be tagged in future chapters**

**Sorry, I know it’s been like ten years. I expected to have more writing time in the summer, but if anything I have less! I’ll try to have chapter seven out as soon as possible. Thanks for sticking with me!

Masterlist

chapter six

Milena

I once asked my parents what life in the Spring Court was like.

I was young, maybe ten years old, but the memory is etched in my mind like an engraving on a stone.

I remember my mother’s expression falling, contentedness merging into distant sorrow. She quickly covered it up, but I still saw and I still remember. She was quick to brush the question away, distracting me with something like candy or a game. I caught Papa’s eye, searching for some sort of explanation. Looking to my mother, he too avoided the question. Alright, I could take a hint. The Spring Court was off-limits, for some unknown reason.

I probably would have forgotten about the incident, but later that night, as Papa was tucking me in, he whispered me a story.

Kneeling next to my bed, the blue faelight casting shadows across his face in an eerie, ghost-like manner, he told me about a male and female–mates–who lived in the Spring Court.

They lived in a cozy little cottage covered in crawling purple clematis, and surrounded on all sides by hedges of sweet wild roses. They had a garden where they grew all the best vegetables, and great big fruit trees. Forget-me-nots lined the path to the front door, which was painted green to match the evergreens. White lace curtains hung in the windows, which were always open to let in the perfume of the flowers.

When it rained, the two would take a stroll down the lane, faces raised to the sky to feel the drops on their cheeks. When it was sunny, they sat together on the porch swing and read each other poetry.

They spent their days tending to the cottage and the garden, sometimes selling their flowers, vegetables, and fruit in the nearby town. They spent their nights whispering plans for the future–what colour to paint the fence, what new flower to grow, what to name their children.

They had neighbours, too. On the left, just a short walk down the road, was a sweet old lady. She baked them all sorts of cookies and squares, and invited them for tea at least once a week. They always obliged.

On the right, quite a bit further down the road, maybe an hour’s walk away, was a male who lived alone. He was kind to the couple, but kept his distance. He always did promise to keep an eye on the female whenever her mate had to go away, though.

The couple lived in their peaceful little cottage for many years. They were happy with their quaint lives, and they were happy with each other.

My papa left after saying those words. He didn’t stick around to answer any of the many questions I had about the story.

Was it a true story? Who were the couple? Are they still alive?

These questions plagued me for nearly a century.

Well, at least I know the answers now.

The letter Mr. Hobkins gave me turned out to be more telling than I could have expected. Addressed to my mother, it was a letter from a woman named Rhiannon Moss. In her letter, Rhiannon reminisced about the years she knew my mother and her mate. How they lived down the road, how they came over for tea once a week. Rhiannon expressed her sorrow that she never got to meet mum’s child–me, I should hope. I don’t know what I’d do if I found out my mother had kept a sibling from me.

It all lines up with the little I know of my parents’ past. They left the Spring Court when Mum found out she was pregnant, so this Rhiannon lady of course never would have met me.

The more I read of Rhiannon’s letter, the more confused I became, although I was finally getting some answers. Why did my parents keep this from me?

Even more confusing, is what Rhiannon says about the male who lives down the road (the single male from Papa’s story, I presume). Apparently, he went crazed with anger shortly after my parents left. His sister had to come live with him because he could hardly look after himself. But two weeks ago (since the letter was sent, four weeks ago from now), his sister passed away, and he disappeared.

That’s why Rhiannon wrote the letter, she says. To warn Mum about him, in case he came to find her for whatever reason.

All this new information is making my head swim.

Rean, who has sat with me the whole time, letting me read and process, silently hands me a cup of sweetened tea.

“What do you want to do?”

“I don’t know,” it comes out as a sigh, “I just can’t make sense of it all.”

Luna, who had been pacing the room since Rean and I arrived with the letter, sits next to me on the sofa and takes the letter from my hand. The parchment is crumpled where I had clutched it so tightly. “Can I read it?”

I nod, bringing the cup of tea to my lips and taking a cautious sip of the hot drink.

Luna reads, I sip, Rean puts his hand on my knee. Corin comes back with a tray of food, which he places on the low round table before sitting on the sofa opposite the one the rest of us are on. Rean goes right for the food, but eating is the last thing on my mind right now.

I knew I didn’t know much about my parents’ pasts, but now I wonder if I ever knew them at all.

“I wonder what happened to their neighbour.” Luna looks up from the letter.

“Rhiannon?”

“No, the other one. Emrick Maddox.”

I drop my cup.

“Say that name again.”

“Mila, are you alright?” Rean kneels in front of me, at first to clean up the mess I made, and now to worriedly search my face for answers.

“The other neighbour’s name was Emrick Maddox.”

“Have you heard that name before?” Luna puts a comforting hand on my shoulder.

“It’s the last thing my father said before– before he died. I had no idea what it meant. I guess I had forgotten until now, or didn’t notice when I was reading the letter. How could I have missed it?”

“Do you think he’s the one who did this?” Luna’s face suddenly becomes focused, her dark brows narrowing in anger and protectiveness. My friend, always ready to seek revenge for me.

“Wait, did what?” Rean looks lost. I didn’t even realize I hadn’t told him that Luna and I don’t believe what the authorities told us about the fire. I see the exact moment he understands. “You don’t think the fire was an accident.”

“It all matches up, Rean. Why else would my father say his name? It had to have been a warning.” My mind is reeling. I finally have some answers, a theory that makes sense. I have to pace the room to try and keep up with my thoughts. “And now we know from Rhiannon’s letter that Emrick has been missing, so it’s entirely possible that he set my house on fire and killed my parents.”

“But what’s his motive?” Corin, who has been silent until now, speaks up. “Why would Emrick even want to kill your parents?”

I stop in my tracks. The high from seconds ago has all but disappeared, replaced with the empty hopeless feeling of not knowing.

“Rhiannon wrote the letter as a warning, Corin. Emrick went crazy when Mila’s parents left the Spring Court.” Luna hands him the letter.

I’m having trouble keeping all of this straight. What would I do if I didn’t have some level-headed people with me?

“It has to be Emrick. I’m sure of it. And he’s still out there. Who knows what else he’ll do?”

Rean, looking determined, stands from the couch. He joins, taking my hand in his. He squeezes once. “We’ll find him.”

Luna comes and takes my other hand. Corin stands behind her, placing a hand on her shoulder.

This is my family. Fierce, protective, loving.

My parents would have loved Rean and Corin too, as they loved Luna.

I feel their presence in the room. A ghost of Papa’s hand on my shoulder, Mum’s on my cheek.

I can’t help the tears that fall, but I feel no sadness. All I can feel is the immense love of my friends, my parents, and my mate.

We can do this. We can track down Emrick and avenge the deaths of my Mum and Papa. This is why Papa warned me, why the letter was brought to us.

“I think we need to pay Rhiannon a visit. If we are going to find Emrick, we need to know more about him and my parents.”

Starlight and Ashes (five)

tagging: @runesandfaes @acourtofredqueens @havilliardandgalathynius @fiery-feyre @starzablaze @tog-trash @evyfox @rhysands-highlady @ame233 @high-lady-of-rochambeau @musicmaam @empress-ofbloodshed @illyrianbeauty @literarynonsense @thisisvelaris @wolffrising @rhysand-darling @throne-of-wingspans @hail-and-farewell @lady-katkat @destiny14444 @the-dream-team-of-prythian @avocadobubbbletea @lorcanswife @hxylady @abillionlittlepieces @my-life-is-a-drama-book @akranick-author @lottie289 @mariamuses @leulivy @booklover242 @heyme231 @whydoyoucareaboutmyusername @my-ships-will-never-be-sank @rhysisdaddyaf @highladyjel @halcyon-havoc @alexisnm95 @a-canadian-fae @abimomeopectore @herondalesaremycupofale @hxghlady @weaver-of-the-wood **please send me an ask if you would like to be tagged in future chapters**

Masterlist

Chapter Five

Milena

I can’t say it’s the worst meal I’ve ever had. Everyone is welcoming enough, and the conversation is good, but I can’t help but feel out of place. It almost doesn’t feel real that I’m even here. I keep thinking that any moment I’ll snap out of some daydream and be back in my home above the bakery, sitting down to supper with my parents. But the focus of the dinner talk comes back to me, and I know that this is real.

“I hear that you’ve been reading all the books in the library, Mila,” Christine, Rean’s cousin comments as she passes her father the green beans. Cassian is as much the legendary warrior I expected him to be–based on stories every child in Velaris has heard a dozen times over–and I can see it in his daughter as well. I know my every move is being analyzed by her stormy blue eyes, every word turned over for hints and clues. When Rean and I had first arrived in the House dining room, admittedly a few minutes late, she was the first to rush up and greet me. I could only be grateful that she shook my hand rather than hugging me, as both Feyre and Cassian had done.

“Rean’s been showing me all his favourites.” I take a sip of wine, hoping to ease my tension. I wish that Luna could have made it to the meal, just so I could have something familiar to anchor me. Though she seemed excited about the invitation, she sent a message saying that something came up and she couldn’t make it. Rean’s twin, Corin, also was regretful to miss the meal, but had somewhere important to be, or something. “I haven’t seen any of you around while I’ve been here. Who all lives in the House of Wind?”

“At the moment,” Hana, another of Rean’s cousins, speaks up, “just Corin, Rean, Christine, and I. Valeria and Julian are back at the Illyrian camps for another few months.”

“Valeria and Julian are friends from Illyria,” Rean explains when he notices my confusion. “They’re younger by a couple years and still have to finish their training. Corin and I officially finished a decade ago, and Christine did last year. We all still spend a lot of time in Illyria, though.”

“Well, except me.” Hana throws a golden red braid over her shoulder and smiles. I like Hana right away. She is a stark contrast to Christine, all smiles and jokes and bright eyes. I don’t dislike Christine or anything, I just feel like prey under her all-seeing gaze. Hana feels… safer. But first impressions aren’t everything, I remind myself.

I’m more intimidated by the older males and females at the table than anyone else, but not because they’re trying to be intimidating. Quite the opposite, really. I am sitting in the presence of legends and warriors, yet it doesn’t feel like it at all as they make jokes and tease each other like school children.

“I’m just saying, Rhysie,” Cassian drawls to the High Lord, “you’re not the young male you used to be.” I hadn’t been paying attention to the exchange that led up to this particular statement, but I don’t think I have to have been in order to understand the dynamic. It is certainly not what I ever would have imagined from the most powerful fae in the Night Court, but I can’t say I’m disappointed.

“We’re the same age, Cassie,” Rhysand retorts. I have a feeling this is a common exchange based on the expressions of everyone around me that say not this again. I feel a certain level of pity for Feyre and Nesta, who have been dealing with this for centuries. I send a silent prayer to the Mother to give me as much patience as them as Cassian and Rhysand continue in their squabble.

Rean told me to call everyone by their first names, but it still feels wrong. My mother would have made sure I called everyone by their proper title. Surely she would have scolded me for being so laid back with the leaders of our Court.

Movement out of the corner of my eye pulls my attention from the meal. On a gust of cool wind, a winged male enters from the open balcony, another form in his arms. Not just any form, I realize with relief, but Luna. And the male I recognize as Corin, since he looks almost exactly like Rean. The only difference I can tell is that Corin’s hair is purposely unruly, while Rean’s is always smoothed out as much as he can manage (to little avail, but he tries).

Next to me, Rean rises from his seat. I stand as well, rushing to embrace my friend. Something in her eyes makes me worry, but her returned embrace tells me that she’s fine.

“I thought you couldn’t come.”

“I was freed up at the last minute,” she shrugs.

“Well, I’m glad.” Everyone shifts around the table to make room for the two late-comers. Luna on my other side, and Corin next to Rean. Having Luna here instantly calms me down, and the rest of the meal seems to fly by in enjoyable banter. Somehow, we got on the topic of chocolate. There seems to be a danger of me being kicked out of the Court now, given everyone’s reactions to the discovery that I don’t have much of a taste for the stuff. Rean looked as if I had slapped him across the face. Noted: never bring up a distaste for chocolate to the leaders of the Night Court.

Bellies and hearts full by the end of the night, the number of diners at the table dwindles to just four: Corin, Luna, Rean, and I. Draining the last sip of wine from his glass, Rean stands and offers to fly Luna back to her apartment. But Corin, to my surprise but not disappointment, suggests she spend the night at the House of Wind, claiming that it’s getting late anyway. Luna of course doesn’t protest to spending another few hours in the luxurious House. I can’t say I would turn down the soft bed topped with a down duvet and feather pillow, the courtyard blooming with every type of flower, and certainly not the seemingly endless library, all at my fingertips.

All the things I never had before, and yet I feel it will never be enough.

____________

Rean

Mila clutches my arm. She holds tight wherever we go, and the streets of Velaris are no exception. Even when we enter shops to browse, she stays close at my side. I don’t mind, but I worry about her. She hasn’t spoken much at all about Starfall, not that I’ve asked much anyway. I just don’t want her to bottle everything up, for the fear that she might overflow.

We walk aimlessly through the streets, taking the day away from the House of Wind to go wherever we are taken. We each hold bags on our free arms, filled with candy and trinkets we’ve bought along the way. We have no final destination or goal to worry about.

I lead Milena left at the next street, admiring the trees that line the path in front of the shops and houses.

Mila lets go of my arm, stopping suddenly.

I realize the mistake I have made.

Across the tree-lined street, like a blot of ink on a letter, are the grey, ashy ruins of Mila’s home.

She stares, but her expression reveals no emotion.

Slowly, she sits on the stone curb, pulling her legs under her. Slowly, I sit next to her.

We stare.

We don’t speak for a long while. What can I say?

“When I was a child,” Mila starts, “I was convinced my mother was a healer. The greatest healer in Prythian, even.” She pulls a ring from her finger and fiddles with it as she speaks. “I thought this because every time I got hurt–a splinter in my finger, a scrape on my knee–my mother could instantly make me feel better. She would sit me down on the kitchen table, wipe the tears from my eyes, and tell me to sit very still so she could make the hurt go away.

“Hold still, buttercup, or the magic won’t work,” was what she would always say. Then she would take the injured finger or knee or elbow in her hand and bring it to her lips, leaving the softest of kisses. And it worked every time. I would hop off the table and run back outside to play, the injury forgotten.

“When I got a little older and emotional hurt was more common than physical, she would do the same little healing ritual to cheer me up. Sitting me down on my bed or hers, she would place that same soft kiss on my forehead, and whisper, “I love you, buttercup.” And while it didn’t always work instantly, as some hurts were very deep, I would always feel even just a little bit better than before.

“Of course I know now that she wasn’t a healer, and actually carried very little magic in her blood. I know that it was all in my head. But to a child, a comforting mother is the most powerful healer in Prythian. There was nothing she couldn’t fix.

I long for one of my mother’s healing kisses now more than ever. I need her to make me feel better. But I know that I’ll have to find another way. My mother isn’t here to kiss away my hurt, and it’s that feeling of… finality that makes me hurt the most.” Tears threaten to fall from her green eyes, but she blinks them away. She sniffs once.

It’s my turn to talk. I take a deep breath.

“There used to be another member of our group–our ‘Inner Circle 2.0’. He trained with Corin, Christine, and I at the Illyrian camps. His name was Isaias, and the four of us were inseparable.” Isaias’s laughing face is forever burned into my memory, and I see him now. The deep dimples, the nearly closed hazel eyes, the crooked teeth. I hear his laugh.

“He… struggled a bit with the training. When it came time for the Rite, he insisted on participating with the rest of us. We weren’t about to keep him from doing it, though we all wanted to, and in the end…”

His laugh. His smile. His face.

“In the end he didn’t make it.”

“I’m sorry.”

“I’m not telling you this to turn this into some sort of pity-party. I’m telling you because I know some of what you’re feeling right now. I want you to know that it will get easier. The hurt will fade. It may never go away, but eventually you might go a day without noticing the pain. A week. It will always be a part of you, but with time, you’ll be able to live with it.”

Mila meets my eyes. “Thank you,” she whispers thickly.

“Milena!”

Mila and I both turn to the direction of the voice, coming from the house next to what is now the ruins of Mila’s home. A white-haired male in a blue apron is walking across the street to where Mila and I sit. I assume Mila knows who he is, as she stands up and hugs him in greeting. In a tight-knit community like this one, neighbours are as close as family. Evident by the sign I now notice above his building, this neighbour is a florist. The sign reads El and Al’s Floral Arrangements.

“Mr. Hobkins, I’m glad to see you again.” Mila pulls back from her embrace of the florist, and takes a step closer to me. “This is Rean. I’ve been staying with him in the House of Wind.”

Mr. Hobkins extends a hand for me to shake. “Well I’ll be! We all wondered where you’d gone off to. How’d you end up there, of all places?”

She chuckles nervously, running a hand through her golden hair. “It’s a bit of a long story. I think I’ll stay there for a while though, til things get sorted out.”

Mr. Hobkins looks me in the eye, his brown eyes less warm than they had been a moment ago. “You make sure she’s alright, boy. You look after her.”

“Yes, sir.”

“Oh, leave him be, Mr. Hobkins. Rean’s been nothing but kind. He’s, uh… he’s my mate.” The word coming from her makes my heart skip a beat. Mr Hobkins, on the other hand, looks ready to cry for joy. He pulls Mila in for another hug. Then, to my surprise, pulls me into a warm embrace as well.

“I almost forgot,” he says, dabbing a tear from the corner of his eye, “in all this excitement it slipped my mind entirely. I’m not as young as I used to be, you know. My memory’s not quite so good.”

“What is it?”

He reaches into the pocket of his apron, producing from it a letter marked with a green seal. “This letter was meant for your house, but ended up at mine. I thought you’d like to have it, so as soon as I saw you sitting out here, I ran and got it. I’ve had it since the day of the accident.” The florist tears up again, but I know this time it’s not for joy. He must have been very close with Mila’s parents.

Mila inspects the letter. I’m not sure if it’s the letter or Mr. Hobkins, but there is a faint scent of roses in the air. I have a feeling it’s the former, since I didn’t notice the scent before he took the letter out.

“It’s addressed to my mother, but I don’t recognize the sender. Do you know who Rhiannon Moss is?”

“I haven’t a clue,” the florist shrugs. “I figured you’d want to read whatever was in it though. And I suppose I should leave you to it. Don’t be a stranger, Milena. Come visit me and El anytime.”

Mila pulls her attention from the writing on the envelope. “Thank you so much, Mr. Hobkins.”

“I think I should open this at the House of Wind,” she says once he’s back inside. “I feel like whatever is in this letter might give a clue to what happened to my parents.”

how would yall feel if I drew Rean and Milena (and Corin, and Luna? and the characters being introduced in chap five?) (this summer, probably)???

@runesandfaes?

Starlight and Ashes (four)

tagging: @runesandfaes @acourtofredqueens @havilliardandgalathynius @fiery-feyre @starzablaze @tog-trash @evyfox @rhysands-highlady @ame233 @high-lady-of-rochambeau @musicmaam @empress-ofbloodshed @rkjar1646 @literarynonsense@thisisvelaris @wolffrising @rhysand-darling @throne-of-wingspans @hail-and-farewell @evalin–ashryver–galathynius @destiny14444 @the-dream-team-of-prythian @avocadobubletea @lorcanswife @hxylady @abillionlittlepieces @my-life-is-a-drama-book @akranick-author @lottie289 @eternally-reading @leulivy @booklover242 @heyme231 @whydoyoucareaboutmyusername @my-ships-will-never-be-sank @rhysisdaddyaf @highladyjel @halcyon-havoc @alexisnm95 @a-canadian-fae **please send me an ask if you would like to be tagged in future chapters**

Another early chapter! This one was so much fun to write. I hope you like it!

Masterlist

Chapter Four

Rean

“How is she doing?” my brother asks me as I enter his room. I plop down on the end of his unmade bed.

“Better. I think she’s more comfortable here now, and she’s enjoying all the reading.” I run my hand through my hair, trying to tidy the seemingly untameable mess. Corin rocks the bedhead look, but I like to put at least a little effort in looking clean.

Corin sits up and looks at me, his eyes narrowing in suspicion. “Did you just go on a flight?”

I sigh. “I needed some time to clear my mind. I feel like I’m doing this all wrong.”

“But you said she was doing better.”

“I don’t know,” I admit. “Maybe she’s just ignoring her feelings, burying them in books. Is that what’s supposed to happen? What do you even do for someone who just lost both their parents?” Corin moves so he’s sitting next to me. I lean my head on his shoulder. “What can I do?”

“You should get her interacting with more people–people who understand what she’s going through. Mom and Dad could help, I know.”

“I’m taking her to the city to visit her friend today. Should we all have supper together tonight?”

“By ‘we all’ you mean…”

“You and me, Mom and Dad. Maybe Christine and Hana, too? Then we might as well invite Cass and Nes. That’s everyone that’s here in Velaris. And we could invite Mila’s friend… I think her name is Luna?”

“Talk to Mila about it. I think it would be good for her. When are you going to the city?”

I glance at the clock on his night stand. “Now,” I say, getting up. “Thanks for the help.”

“Anytime, brother. See you at supper!”

I close Corin’s bedroom door behind me and make my way toward Milena’s room, not too far down the hall.

“Rean!” I turn at my father’s voice, and wait for him to catch up to me. “Where are you off to?”

“I’m taking Milena to see her friend… what are you doing here?”

“Am I not allowed to be in my own house?” he laughs.

“No, it’s just you’re usually–”

“I’m teasing. I came to talk to your brother. I’ll be back at the townhouse in an hour and be out of your way, don’t worry.” He bumps his elbow on my arm. “I’ll do my best not to embarrass you in front of your mate.”

I roll my eyes. “Actually, I was planning on us all having supper together tonight. I just have to make sure with Milena, who hasn’t even accepted the bond yet, Dad.” He laughs and puts his hands up in a fake surrender.

“Supper sounds nice. It’ll be good to finally meet her. I can judge if she’s truly worthy of my precious little boy,” he says, ruffling my hair. We’re in front of Mila’s door now.

“Dad!”

“I’m going!” He laughs all the way back to Corin’s room.

Sighing, I knock on Mila’s door and ease it open. She is sitting in the armchair we had brought up, reading a book, as usual. Her slippered feet are tucked under her, and she wears an oversized sweater and leggings. Even from the door, I can tell that her hair hasn’t been washed in days. She tells me that she is feeling better, but it sure doesn’t look like it.

She looks up from her book and smiles, and my heart skips a beat.

“Are you ready to go?”

Her smile falters a little, but she stands up and puts away her book. I use my magic to summon jackets for both of us, and hand one to her. It’s warm here in the House of Wind, but it’s still Winter in the rest of the Court.

She takes my arm, as always she does when we go somewhere. It’s almost as if she’s afraid of letting me out of her sight.

“I’m excited to see Luna,” she sighs. “But I’m also nervous. Should I feel nervous?” Her green eyes stare straight ahead, wide and a little unfocused. I tell myself she’s just tired.

“It’s okay to feel nervous,” I assure her. “There’s a lot for you two to talk about.”

“I’m going to tell her we’re mates. I’m excited for that.” It’s impossible for me to hold back my smile. We’ve only each other known for less than a week, and already I can’t imagine a life without Mila–without my mate.

“I was thinking,” I start, “how would you feel about having supper with some of my family tonight?” Her hand tightens slightly on my arm. “It’ll be casual, and I promise we can leave whenever you want.”

She takes a deep breath. “Alright.”

“Yeah?”

“Who will be there?”

We’re on the balcony now, and summon my wings and lift Mila into my arms. I wait until we’ve leveled out in the sky and the wind has died down to answer her. “My brother and parents, my aunt and uncle–Nesta and Cassian–and two of my cousins.” She nods. “We can invite Luna, if you want.”

Her face instantly lights up.“Yes, I’ll ask her! She’ll be so excited.”

The wind rips through her hair, leaving strands of gold across her face, which is turning red in the cold. Seeing her mussed like this–the way I so often am–makes her even more beautiful, though I didn’t think it was possible. She shakes her head to get her hair out of her face.

“So, where exactly does Luna live?” I ask. “Am I even going in the right direction?”

“She lives right by the library. I’m not exactly sure how to navigate through the sky.”

“I know where to go.” I veer left, and within five minutes, we’re there. I set Mila down on the ground, and she heads in the direction of one of the apartment buildings that line the street.

Despite her jacket, Mila shivers a little as we walk. I take her hand when we reach the entrance of the building. “I’m going to go take care of some things in town, so when you want me to come back, just give a little shout down the bond.”

“You can come too, if you want. You don’t have to leave.”

My heart breaks a little at my mate’s generous heart. “I want to give you some time with your friend, but let me know when I should come back. I’d love to meet her.” I kiss her cheek and take back to the skies before she can try to change my mind. Only after I’m well into the clouds to I realize–I just kissed her again. It felt like such a natural thing to do, I didn’t even think about it.

I hope she isn’t upset.

___________

Milena

I still feel the ghost of his lips on my cheek as I climb the stairs to Luna’s apartment. I don’t think he even meant to do it, but I’m glad he did.

Before I know it, I’m standing in front of Luna’s door. Taking a deep breath and mustering up my remaining strength, I knock.

She doesn’t answer right away, and I wonder if she’s even here. What was her schedule? Did she have a class today? Maybe she crashed another lecture?

I knock again, and just before I’m about to give up and call Rean to come get me, the door opens.

At the sight of my friend–her familiar dark hair, her smile, the scent of chocolate, whatever emotions I’ve been holding back for the last four days suddenly come breaking to the surface, and as much as I try to hold it together, I burst into sobs. Luna is instantly there, hugging me, pushing the hair back from my face, wiping my tears.

“Mila,” she murmurs. “I heard what happened. I’m so sorry.”

She steers me into the apartment and sits me down on her couch. The tears have all but stopped now, and I take a few deep breaths again to steady myself. Luna sits in the chair across from me on the other side of the coffee table, which is piled with open books. She must have been studying.

Luna’s dark eyes are a fiery furnace, and her hands are clenched at her sides. “I’ll kill whoever did this to you. I swear it–I’ll kill them.”

“I know.” I say automatically. Then I make sense of what she just said. “Wait, you think someone did this on purpose?”

“You don’t? Mila, what else could it have been? Your parents wouldn’t have let an accident like that just happen. They’ve put out small fires in the bakery before–they know what to do.”

“I guess I just hadn’t really thought about it. Why would someone want to hurt my parents?”

“You have to admit you don’t know much about their past. They never told you or anyone much about their lives in the Spring Court. They completely broke any old ties.”

I jump at a sudden realization, and Luna’s brows shoot up in confusion. “That’s not true! I remember, Mum used to write letters. I don’t know who they were addressed to, but I know they were going to Spring.”

“If we can find one of these letters,” Luna stands up and paces the room, “we can write to whoever this person in the Spring Court is and get some information.” She stops and looks at me. “Where can we find one?”

“There might still be one at the post office, if it hasn’t been sent yet. I can get Rean to check right now.”

Luna’s jaw drops. “Wait, say that again. Did you say ‘Rean’? As in Prince Rean?”

I wince, just a little bit. I planned on telling her in some big special way, but this will work too. “Prince Rean is my mate…”

“WHAT? Mila, why didn’t you tell me?!”

“I was going to, but then, you know…”

Realization flashes across her features, deep and burning. “I’m sorry, of course.” She sits next to me on the couch and puts a comforting arm around me. “Did you accept the bond?”

“We’re taking things slow. Or at least, we’re trying to.”

“But you can mind-speak with him? You said you were going to ask him to find the letter…”

“He’s daemati,” I think back to what he explained to me that first night. I know I heard him, but I wasn’t really listening. “He set up a sort of bridge between our minds–not as strong as an accepted bond, but enough that I can talk to him if I need to. I didn’t want to be alone.”

“He sounds very kind. You’re going to introduce us, right?”

“I was planning on calling him over here at some point during our visit. Do you want him to come now?”

“Yes! I need to make sure he’s worthy of my friend.”

I reach down the bond again. Luna wants to meet you.

I sense his amusement, then hear his voice in my head. I’m on my way.

“Don’t be too harsh on him,” I say, turning my attention back to Luna. “He’s a little awkward at first, but a charming kind of awkward–if that makes sense.”

“Oh,” she nods sarcastically, “perfect sense.” She stands back up and walks to the kitchen, which is technically in the same room, just along the back wall. “I’ll make us some tea.”

“Tea sounds lovely,” I sigh, leaning back on the cushions. It’s only been less than a week since I last saw her, but I’ve missed Luna. I’ve missed this apartment, cluttered as it is. I’ve missed the sense of familiarity. “Oh, Lu, can I borrow some clothes? Just until I can buy some more.”

“Yeah,” she calls from the sink, “take whatever you want. Even my favourites.”

“You’re a gem,” I call back, heading into her bedroom.

By the time I come back to the living room with a bag full of clothes, a soft knock sounds at the door. I rush to open it before Luna can.

“Rean,” she exclaims, “come on in, have a seat! Let’s chat over some tea.”

We spend the better part of the afternoon chatting around Luna’s coffee table. Rean survived Luna’s neverending list of questions, but I could feel that he was getting anxious at some points. Luna is a sweetheart, but she can also be intimidating, especially when it comes to looking after her friends. I could tell that she was happy with him, though. We also invited her for supper at the House of Wind, and she nearly burst with excitement. I could hardly make out a word she was saying.

Before we left, Luna pulled Rean aside and said something that I couldn’t hear. Rean’s face turned red, and he nodded and stumbled over his words. I’m glad to have a friend that loves me so much she would threaten a prince.

“That was actually very fun,” Rean comments as we fly back to the House of Wind. “It’s only fair that you meet my family now, though,” he teases. The wind tousles his dark hair, mussing it again, and I know it’s going to annoy him. I’ve learned by now that he likes to keep it neat, but usually to no avail. I reach up and run my fingers through the black curls, smoothing them back into place. His arms tighten around me slightly.

“I didn’t think I was ready to meet your family, but I’m excited now. Thank you for coming, by the way. I know Luna can be…”

“Scary?”

I hit his chest with my fist, and he chuckles. I feel it in my entire body. “I was going to say protective… caring.”

“And a little scary.”

I sigh and shift the bag of clothes in my arms. “Hey, I don’t have to dress up for supper, do I?”

“Nah,” he shakes his head. “We’re pretty laid back. You could wear a bathrobe, for all they would care.” I only nod.

When I get back to my room, I plop down on the middle of the bed, and let out a long sigh. Today has been a long day, but it’s not over yet. I know I’ll have both Rean and Luna there with me, but the thought of supper with so many people makes me a little anxious.

But it will be good, I know. This will potentially be my new family, so while I am anxious, I’m even more excited.

“What kind of books do you like to read?” Rean asks.

“Oh, all types of books. I’ll read anything.” I select a large book that catches my eye. “I do have a soft spot for romance, though.”

“I’ll keep that in mind.”

Starlight and Ashes–Milena and Rean

Starlight and Ashes (three)

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surprise! posting a little early this week. I hope you like it!

Masterlist

Chapter Three

Milena

I barely feel the cold stone, barely feel the impact as I sink to my knees.

My home, everything I’ve ever known, is up in flames. Parts of the building are brick, so it is standing, but everything else is… gone. It’s all gone.

I suddenly realize that my parents might have been inside and might not have gotten out, and scramble to my feet, sprinting toward the burning building. The smoke in the air burns my lungs, stings my eyes.

Someone grabs my arm before I get too far, and I turn to see Rean, his face frantic, violet eyes wide.

“Mila, you can’t go in there,” he tells me.

“My parents might be in there!”

He looks behind my shoulder. “No,” he says, “they’re not.” He points to the building across the street from the bakery, where a group of fae are gathered around a pair of stretchers.

I hadn’t even noticed all the other fae here. Those with water manipulation abilities are putting out the flames, while healers tend to the victims–my parents.

I’m at the stretchers in an instant, hardly seeing anything through the tears that won’t stop flowing. Someone pulls a sheet over one of the forms on the stretchers–my mother, I recognize–and I frantically try to stop them. “Stop,” I scream, “that’s my mum!”

“Mila,” I hear a voice rasp.

I turn to him. “Papa.” His skin is burned so bad I hardly recognize him. “Papa, what happened?” I kneel by the stretcher, careful to stay out of the way of the healer. I’m afraid I’ll cause him more pain if I touch him, though I desperately want to hug him.

“Em…” he’s trying to tell me, but he’s fading.

“Papa, it’s ok. I love you.”

“Emrick Maddox,” he manages.

What does that mean? Is it a person?

“Is that who did this?” I’m so confused.

My father doesn’t answer. His eyes are closed, and while his chest is still moving, it’s slowing down. He’s dying. I take his hand now, and hold it to my heart. “I love you,” I whisper.

His chest stops moving. I scream.

____________

Distantly, I hear Rean speaking to me. I still clutch my father’s hand in mine, unable to leave his side. I half feel Rean rubbing circles on my back, kneeling on the stone street next to me.

“… back to the House of Wind.” I catch the last part of whatever he just said to me, and I’m pulled back out of my thoughts.

“What?” It comes out more of a croak than an actual word.

“I said, we should get you back to the House of Wind.” His voice is soft, soothing. Pitying.

“I don’t want to leave them.” My voice is barely more than a whisper.

I look at him now and see him fighting back tears as well. “They’re not here, Mila.” He pulls me against his chest and I realize I’m shaking. “I’m so sorry,” he whispers into my hair.

Rean stands and lifts me into his arms, and I bury my face in his neck. I want this all to go away, for it to be just me and Rean and nothing else.

____________

Rean flew us back to the House of Wind and set me up in one of its many rooms. He told me this one was right next to his, so if I need anything, all I have to do is tug the bond. The bond.

Call me a terrible person, a terrible daughter, but right now, Rean is the only thing I want to think about.

He’s my mate.

I have a mate.

And my parents aren’t here to know it.

Was it really just hours ago that I stood in my living room with both of my parents, instead of lying in an unknown bed, unable to sleep? Was it hours ago that my mother fixed my hair and laced my gown, and my father twirled me around and taught me how to waltz? It feels like a lifetime, like time is moving too fast and two slow all at once.

After hours of laying in bed and staring up at the ceiling, I fall into a fitful sleep.

____________

I wake with a jolt, an urgent thought echoing through my mind–some fragment from my dream.

Remember whose you are, Buttercup.

My mother’s final words to me.

Just as I was leaving for the House of Wind, she had taken my arm and said those words.

Remember whose you are.

It’s as if she knew what would happen, but I know that thought is ridiculous. She couldn’t possibly have known. Could she?

It’s early morning now, and dim light streams through the curtains. I roll over and bury my face in my pillow.

If my mother had known what was going to happen, why wouldn’t she have tried to stop it?

A soft knock sounds at the door, and after a moment, it opens. I sit up and rub the sleep from my eyes.

“I brought you some clothes, and some other things you might need,” Rean whispers. “Sorry to wake you.”

I thank him, and he turns and leaves again, closing the door softly behind him.

Of course he would need to bring me new clothes. I don’t have any now–save for my gown. I don’t have anything anymore.

I throw the covers back pull myself out of bed to inspect what Rean left for me. There is a simple tunic and leggings, some underthings, and a couple toiletry items. The tunic is soft and a navy blue colour, embroidered with swirls of silver on the hem and collar–something I probably would have chosen for myself.

I put on the clothes and put the toiletry items in one of the drawers of the vanity by the closet door. I then hang my now dirty gown in the closet, almost wishing I could burn it. I don’t even want to look at it.

I take this chance to look around the rest of the room–something I didn’t do last night. The large bed I slept in is along the far wall from the door, right in the middle. There are twin nightstands and lamps on either side, and an abstract painting hangs above the headboard. The left wall has the vanity and closet, as well as a floor-length mirror. The right side of the room has a door leading to the balcony and a large window with flowing gauze curtains. The room is decorated in shades of yellow and blue–coincidentally my favourite colours.

My stomach growls quite loudly, and I decide I should probably go and find some food, only I would probably get lost very quickly in the House of Wind. I have no idea what part of the house I’m in, let alone where the kitchens are. There’s only one thing I can do.

Gently, I tug on the bond. It feels strange, but not uncomfortable. Like a string tied to my heart, which slackens when Rean is far away and tightens when he is near. I reach down the bond with my mind, finding my mate on the other side.

Are you alright, Milena? His voice echoes in my mind. I can sense his worry, too.

I’m just hungry.

Should I bring you food? Or do you want me to bring you to the kitchen?

Will anyone else be in the kitchen?

Not if you don’t want there to be.

The door opens as Rean arrives to escort me. He holds out his hand to me, and I gladly take it, savouring the feeling of his calluses against mine (It’s surprising how many calluses one can get from cutting cakes. Something about the way I press on the knife creates an especially bad one on the palm of my left hand).

Rean leads me down numerous hallways, and I try to memorize the route we take. It’s actually not as far away as I expected it to be, and I’m confident that I’ll be able to find it again. I’m going to have to learn where everything is since I’m probably going to be here for a while–I don’t exactly have anywhere else to go.

My parents both had no other family, and very few close friends. I know they had friends in the Spring Court, but it seems that when they came to Night, they mostly kept to themselves. I have a small group of friends, but I would rather live here with any of them anyway. I make a mental note to visit them soon, though, to let them know I’m alright. Well, relatively alright. Anyway, I want to tell them about Rean. Luna will likely lose her mind when I tell her–she’s been hoping I would find a partner for decades. Just look at me now, Luna! I have a mate and it’s Prince Rean!

I search the kitchen for something I can make, and settle on some bread and cheese. Rean hands me an apple, too.

Thinking about my friends makes me wonder when I’ll be meeting Rean’s. Everyone in Velaris knows about the legendary group–mostly Illyrians (half or pure blooded) and master warriors, as well as notorious trouble-makers. I don’t feel like I’m up to meeting them any time soon, but it’s something we can talk about. I’ll likely come across a few of them in the House of Wind, anyway–namely his twin, Corin. But even just thinking about having to socialize with anyone makes me feel anxious. I can honestly barely even handle being around Rean, and the only reason I can at all is because he’s my mate. There’s a certain level of comfort that he brings with him, an effect of the bond.

“You look lost in thought.” I almost jump at Rean’s voice. I guess I was pretty lost in myself.

“I’m just tired. I didn’t sleep much.” He gives me a pitying look and I hate it. I just want things to be normal. “I’m fine.”

I finish up eating my small meal, and place the dishes I used in the sink. I turn back to Rean, who is waiting near the door. “Why don’t you show me around a bit?”

“Of course.” He smiles and holds out his arm for me to take. He leads me down a few more hallways, the late morning light streaming in through the windows. There are so many windows here, covered with billowing curtains. I know they must be using some sort of heating spell to keep this place so warm from its place up in the mountains. I know I haven’t even left the city, but it feels like another world in the House of Wind. It must be the sense of luxury that I’m not used to–my family wasn’t exactly poor but we were far from wealthy. My parents worked hard for and were proud of what we had, though. They had built their lives in Velaris from the ground up.

Rean stops in front of a door and pushes it open, revealing an enormous library. I can’t help but gasp at the sheer size of it and the shelves upon shelves of books inside. Back home, I had a single shelf that was bursting with all my favourite stories. Here, I could spend the rest of my life reading and not even read all the books. “Let’s stay here for a while.”

“As you wish,” he chuckles. I follow him inside and waste no time browsing the stacks of books. Rean seems to have already chosen a novel, and now sits in one of the armchairs by the fireplace. He doesn’t open his book yet, though. He watches me from where he sits with a glint of admiration in his violet eyes. I shy away and return my focus to the books around me, which are overwhelming in their variety.

“What kind of books do you like to read?” Rean asks.

“Oh, all types of books. I’ll read anything.” I select a large book that catches my eye. “I do have a soft spot for romance, though.”

“I’ll keep that in mind.”

Book in hand, I make my way back to Rean and sit in the armchair across from him.

“That’s an amazing book,” he says, nodding to the book I chose. “We’ll have to discuss it when you finish. There’s one part that Corin and I can never agree on the significance of.”

“We’ll have our own little book club,” I remark, opening my book.

He chuckles in response, but we both fall into silence as we read. We stay this way until well after lunch time, only stopping when we get too hungry to wait to eat any longer. We eat alone in the kitchen again, and when we’re finished, Rean suggests we go out in the garden.

“Can we take our books with us? I’m finding mine so interesting, I can hardly bear to put it down.”

“I knew you would love it. When you’re finished with it, I have some books that you might also enjoy.” The books appear in his hand–magicked here from the library. “I’d say our book club is off to a good start.”

In the garden, we sit in the grass under an enormous wisteria tree. His shoulder and thigh are pressed against mine, the contact feeling strangely intimate. We spend the rest afternoon as we spent the morning–reading together in a comfortable silence. The next day, we do the same, occasionally breaking from our reading to chat over a cup of tea. We spend four days with this routine, and in that time, we both speed through two large books each.

As much as it hurts to admit, I don’t think I’ve been this at peace in months.

Starlight and Ashes (two)

tagging: @runesandfaes @acourtofredqueens @havilliardandgalathynius @fiery-feyre @starzablaze @tog-trash @evyfox @highlordkaz @ame233 @high-lady-of-rochambeau @musicmaam @empress-ofbloodshed @rkjar1646 @literarynonsense @thisisvelaris @wolffrising @rhysand-darling @throne-of-wingspans @hail-and-farewell @evalin–ashryver–galathynius @destiny14444 @the-dream-team-of-prythian @avocadobubletea @lorcanswife @hxylady please send me an ask if you would like to be tagged in future chapters

A lot happens in this chapter. Fair warning.

Masterlist

Chapter Two

Milena

When I woke up this morning, the last thing I expected to happen today was to get an invitation to the Starfall celebration at the House of Wind. From Prince Rean himself, no less. I did not expect to do anything but cut cake after tedious cake until I could stop and watch what I could of Starfall from my bedroom window. I certainly did not expect to be flirted with by a prince.

I should really start setting my expectations higher.

Because here I am, dusting off the only gown I’ve ever owned, and stressing about how I’m going to fix my hair. Because I’m going to the House of Wind. With Prince Rean. My heart flutters even just thinking about him, with his mussed hair and flustered small talk, so un-prince like and yet still so charming.

My mother had come home just after he left, going on about this and that, completely distracted. But I could hardly contain my excitement for what had just happened.

“Mum, listen, you’ll never guess what just happened.” I follow her up the stairs to the apartment we live in above the shop.

“Did you meet a wise old woman who told you your future over a cup of apricot tea?”

“What? Mum, no. Even better. Prince Rean came here, to our shop, and bought all our cakes then invited me to go with him to Starfall at the House of Wind tonight!”

“Oh that’s a funny one, dear! I’ll have to get more creative next time.”

“Mum, I’m serious!”

She finally looks at me.

“Buttercup, you’re really going to Starfall with one of the princes?”

“Yes, Mum,” I say with no small amount of exasperation. I love my mother, but she can be a true piece of work sometimes.

She instantly worked herself into a frenzy, darting about the apartment, acting as if she were the one going to a party with a prince, not me.

Now, I step into my gown and stand in front of a floor-length mirror as she laces it up for me.

“Oh Mila,” she breathes, “just look at you. Fit for a prince.”

I snort. “A pretty dress doesn’t make me any more fit for him.”

I examine my reflexion, wondering if it really could. The dress certainly is pretty, with flowing gossamer skirts the same navy blue as a twilight sky. Gold embroidery decorates the bodice in a swirling design of flowers and stars. The dress may make me look more fit for the most powerful family in Prythian, but I don’t feel like I am.

I turn as I hear the front door of the apartment open and click shut behind my father.

“What’s all this?” He asks, noticing my dress and the general mood of excitement in the room.

“Your daughter,” Mum starts, “is going to the House of Wind with Prince Rean tonight.”

He stops dead in his tracks, eyebrows raised. “She is, is she?”

“It’s not that big of a deal,” I insist.

But it is a big deal. I can hardly keep my thoughts straight and I almost feel like I’m going to faint.

Get yourself together, Mila.

“Actually, Papa, I need your help.”

“Do you need me to threaten him if he ever hurts you?”

“No!” I jokingly scoff, “I need you to teach me how to dance.”

Rean

The room is already crowded with bodies, the air heavy and scented with jasmine. I stand near the door, waiting for her to arrive.

My friends and brother are already off dancing and drinking, likely raiding the food table. But I stand at the door and wait.

I can’t believe I did this. I probably scared her off, and she’s not going to show up.

I begin to pace, the movement calming my restless nerves.

How long until I’ve officially been stood up?

The door opens again, and I brace myself for the disappointment of seeing another stranger enter the room. But to my disbelief, it’s Mila, with her eyes wide and cheeks flushed, clutching the skirts of her dark blue gown. Her eyes find me in the crowd and a small smile of relief spreads across her face as she makes her way towards me.

“You came,” I say, still not quite believing it.

“You invited me. I didn’t think it right to refuse.”

Up close, I can see the golden detailing on her gown. Flowers and stars. Perfect for a daughter of both Spring and Night. I’m careful not to stare too long this time, but I can’t help but admire her.

I’ve never felt like this before, never been so instantly possessed by someone, and the feeling throws me off.

A word crosses my mind but I instantly brush it away. I’m getting ahead of myself.

“Come,” I lead her out to one of the balconies with fewer people occupying it. I’m thankful for the fresh air to cool my burning cheeks, to clear my muddled mind.

We stand at the railing, looking out over Velaris. At least, I’m looking at the city. I follow her gaze to the mountains in the distance with the rest of Prythian beyond them.

“Beautiful, isn’t it?” She sighs, resting her elbows on the railing.

“You should see it from the sky.”

“Is it a date?”

I chuckle. She’s bold, I’ll give her that. “If you want it to be, I’d be happy to take you. Perhaps even later tonight.”

She nods, her eyes are still on the horizon. She looks totally at peace, and I see that she is longing to be out there. I know exactly how she feels.

Something moves across the sky, and I see the first of the beautiful display of falling stars, or spirits, or whatever they are.

Mila watches in awe, her lips parted and head raised to the starry sky.

“This is my first time seeing it this clearly,” she explains.

A few moments pass as we both admire the beauty of Starfall.

“Everyone deserves to experience this view at least once in their lives, don’t you think?”

I hum in agreement.

She pulls her gaze from the sky and turns to me, still leaning on the railing. “Do you want to dance?”

I was supposed to ask her that, I think. But I only say “I would love to.”

As if on cue, the musicians inside begin to play a slow, flowing waltz.

We move in time, her hands on my shoulders, mine on her waist.

I feel like I’m flying, the same rush filling my head.

There are many things I am unsure of in my life. But this–being with Mila–isn’t one of them. I’ve never been so sure of anything in my life.

Milena

We dance for what could have been years, hardly speaking, but not needing to. We are perfectly in time, bodies pressed together, minds synced. Like two parts of a whole.

I’ve been with males before. That is, I’ve been on awkward dates with them. But never anything like this. I’ve never felt such a deep connection with someone, and certainly not so soon after meeting them. And now, dancing with Rean, I feel more connected than I ever have with anyone in my life.

I lean my head against his chest, and his hands tighten on my waist.

“Do you want to go on that flight?” he whispers in my ear.

I meet his eyes and nod eagerly, unable to suppress my smile. He smiles back and in one smooth motion lifts me into his arms, one arm under my knees and the other around my back. Glorious wings appear on his back, dark and membranous.

And then we are shooting towards the sky, the ground far below and the wind on my cheeks. My stomach drops and I burst into a terrified laugh, clinging tight to Rean, who laughs in amusement. As Rean slows to a more leisurely pace, and I get my first real look at my surroundings, I am both terrified and in awe of the new world around me.

Lights flicker in the streets and homes below, but up here it is dark. The air fresher and cleaner than it is on the ground, and I wonder if I’ll ever be able to stand to breathe the air down there again.

I see why he loves it up here.

And the view–the glorious view he said I just had to see. Though the actual event of Starfall has ended, the sky is more than worth the terror of getting up here. The mountains rise like sleeping giants on the horizon, visible only because they block out the stars and leave the sky an endless black.

“Speechless?”

I drag my eyes from the horizon and look at Rean. “It’s… glorious.”

He smiles at me, but then it fades and red blooms on his cheeks.

“I want to kiss you,” he whispers.

“Then do it.”

We are close enough to share a breath, to feel each other’s heartbeats.

He presses his lips to mine, pulling me tighter against him.

My hands trail his chest, his shoulders, his neck, tangling in his hair.

A string between us pulls taut, and we both pull away in surprise.

And then the bastard drops me.

Wind rips around me, pulling my hair from its pins and lifting my skirts around me. A scream tears from my throat, my limbs thrash in search of purchase.

It is as I’m falling that I realize what just happened. A mating bond snapped into place between us.

I have a mate.

I only fall for a second before he catches me again.

“Oh my gods, Mila, I’m so sorry.”

Rean is frantic. I mean, he did just drop his mate. His mate. The thought makes my heart flutter. I’m his mate.

“Are you alright?”

I burst into a roaring laugh, much to his confusion. I manage to get out a few words telling him that yes, I’m fine, but I can’t stop the laughter. I think I’m overwhelmed, and this is the only reaction I can manage.

Rean brings us back down to the ground, and we both sit.

Eventually the shrieks of laughter subside to a giggle, but my head feels just as light, and this all feels no more like reality.

I have a mate. And it’s Prince Rean.

And he dropped me when he found out.

Should I be offended?

“Mila,” he says, now smiling and doing his best to not laugh with me. He brushes his fingers on my arm, and the bond between us tenses. This is going to take some getting used to.

“You’re my mate,” I state, fighting the fit of giggles that threaten to start again.

He looks at me seriously now, and I no longer have such an urge to laugh. Good, because we really do need to talk about what this means.

“We don’t have to decide anything right now,” he says. “We can take things slow, get to know each other. That’s not to say I don’t want to be your mate–believe me, I do, more than anything–but we can take our time with it. It’s not as if the bond will expire.”

“I think that’s a good idea. I don’t want you to be with me just because of some supernatural bond, and I don’t want to be with you because of it either.”

He pulls me into a hug, squeezing tight. This, I’d be happy to get used to.

“My parents,” I realize, “we should tell them. And yours.”

When I imagined meeting the High Lord and Lady, I did not imagine it being under these circumstances. A passing parade, a dinner party, maybe. But certainly not as their future daughter-in-law.

“We should go to yours first. I’m sure mine are… preoccupied.”

“Now?”

“Why not?”

I shrug and stand. “Let’s go, then.”

He lifts me back into his arms.

“Try not to drop me this time,” I tease.

Rean

I’m holding my mate in my arms. I’m actually holding my mate.

I thank the Cauldron for the hundredth time tonight. Not only do I have a mate, but I found her after only one hundred years. Few are often so lucky, sometimes waiting a thousand years or not finding them at all.

But here she is, and here I am, off to meet her parents.

We are nearing the street the bakery is on when I notice a smoky haze in the air, and it only gets stronger the closer we get to her home. I quicken my pace when I see the first of the flames.

I touch down in front of the bakery.

The bakery that is on fire.

I’m not quick enough to catch Mila as she falls to her knees.