Brynden Rivers, known as the Bloody Crow, leaned against the doorframe watching his half-sister as she stood in front of the ornate mirror, her reflection framed by the soft glow of candlelight The room still bore the lingering warmth of their recent union, the air thick with the scent of their shared intimacy She was beautiful, her skin glowing and slightly flushed, but there was also a sense of vulnerability about her, one that made Brynden’s heart ache.

Once, they had fought for her affection, he and his brother aegor, competing like knights in a tournament, each hoping to prove himself worthy But she had chosen him, and in that choice, Brynden felt both exhilaration and the weight of responsibility Now, as he watched her, he felt a fierce protectiveness swell within him.

He stepped forward, closing the distance between them, his hands reaching for an exquisite necklace he had procured for her—a delicate chain set with shimmering jewels that caught the light like captured stars As he moved closer, she turned her head slightly, meeting his gaze in the mirror The connection between them was palpable, a bond forged through longing and rivalry, now transformed into something deeper.

Brynden approached her, placing his hands gently on her shoulders “You look radiant,” he murmured, his voice low and husky with emotion He kissed her shoulder softly, allowing the warmth of his lips to linger on her skin She shivered slightly, and he felt a rush of desire course through him.

“Let me adorn you,” he whispered, his breath warm against her neck as he unclasped the necklace. The cool metal glinted in the candlelight as he draped it around her neck, letting the chain rest gently against her collarbone As he fastened it, his fingers brushed against her skin, igniting sparks of electricity that sent shivers down her spine.

“You make it look even more beautiful,” he said, stepping back slightly to admire her reflection The necklace framed her delicate neck perfectly, accentuating her elegance and grace.