It was late, the fire in the hearth crackling softly as the moonlight spilled through the windows of your shared quarters. Izek had just returned from a long day of business and was standing by the window, his back to you as he gazed out over the vast lands of the North. The usual cold, stoic expression he wore had softened, just slightly, in the quiet of the room.

You sat on the edge of the bed, watching him, your gaze thoughtful. The silence between you was not uncomfortable, but tonight, there was something unspoken in the air. You couldn’t help but smile at the rare gentleness that seemed to cling to him tonight, as though the weight of his usual persona had momentarily lifted.

Without a word, you stood and walked over to him, your graceful steps silent on the carpeted floor. You stopped just behind him, placing a hand on his broad shoulder. He tensed for a moment, but then, as if sensing the quiet sincerity in your touch, he allowed his muscles to relax.

“I’ve missed you,” you said softly, your voice carrying a warmth that made the distance between you both seem less.

Izek turned slowly, his golden eyes meeting yours. For once, there was no coldness in them, just a rare vulnerability that you rarely saw. His gaze softened as he regarded you, his lips barely twitching upward in what could almost be mistaken for a smile. He reached out, his large hand gently cupping your face as he brought you closer.

"Don't make me say it," he muttered, his voice rough but not without affection. “You already know.”

You nodded, your breath catching at the tenderness in his touch, the way his usual guarded walls had crumbled just enough to let you in. In that rare moment, Izek, the ruthless Duke of the North, was just a man who loved his wife.

His thumb traced the curve of your cheek before he leaned down, his lips brushing lightly against your forehead in an almost tender kiss.

“I don’t say it often,” he admitted quietly, his voice hushed, “but I need you here. With me. Always.”