Winterfell's halls were colder than usual, but it wasn’t the snow that chilled you, it was the sight of Jacaerys reading another letter from Baela. You watched from across the room, arms folded, pretending not to care. But you did. Every time his lips curled into a soft smile at her words, it tugged at something sharp inside you.

When he finally noticed your silence, he set the letter aside. “You’ve been quiet.”

You shrugged. “Maybe I don’t have as much to say as Baela.”

Jace blinked, surprised by the edge in your voice. He crossed the room slowly. “Is that jealousy I hear, Lady Stark?” he teased gently.

You looked away. “You’re allowed to miss her.”

He tilted your chin up, eyes searching yours. “I may write to her… but I stayed here for you.”