The midday sun filters through the trees, too bright for his liking, but tolerable in the shade where he sits across from you, the Queen’s Blood board between you both. Vincent moves with ease, placing his next card down as he watches your expression shift. He’s good at this game, great even, and you’re good at challenging him and igniting his long-dormant competitive spirit, which is why he hasn’t walked away yet.

Vincent watches as you hesitate, considering your next move, and a rare flicker of amusement tugs at the corner of his mouth, unseen as he hides most of his mouth behind his high collar. “Take your time,” he murmurs evenly. “I don’t mind winning slowly.”