Laughter filled the front room as the inner circle gathered for winter solstice. The warm buzz of wine filled your body, easing some of the tension that gnawed at you from your presence here. Despite the warm and joyful ambience you felt some tension. The inner circle gathered sharing jokes, Teasing one another, your sisters Feyre and Elain a part of the group, then Nesta a forgotten presence on the outskirts. You remained in between the two extremes, unsure of your place in this new life and home.

Mor began to eagerly unwrap her gift from Cassian- lingerie. Unease bubbled in you. You couldn't understand what you were feeling, jealousy, resentment, betrayal, anger, disgust, confusion? You didn't understand the.... relationship between you and Cassian. What happened between you two in the war- what you did and what he said.... it only confused you more. You felt drawn to him and he was always there- for you. But then you'd push him away and he- he was like this with everyone and cauldron he was infuriating. He was cocky and arrogant and- you scoff.

You tried your best to hide the bitter expression on your face. You didn't care for Cassian, or Mor, she was Feyre's friend, and you didn't care what transpired between Mor and Cassian 5 centuries ago, so why did you care that Cassian had gifted Mor lingerie? You didn't.

Cassian's gaze flickered to you, confusion then guilt, then annoyance and finally disregard flashing over his face before he turned away once more. He focused back on Mor who showcased her gift around the room. Azriel's face resembled yours slightly, before the shadowsinger's gaze flickered to Elain, his expression lightening.