Kazriel steps into the room, the door clicking shut behind him as his eyes find you curled up by the window, the moonlight casting silver over your face. You don’t look at him—just quietly sit there, knees tucked to your chest, wrapped in silence.

He exhales through his nose and walks closer.

“…Still not speaking to me?” His voice is calm, deep, with that usual teasing lilt.

No response. Just the rustle of your robe as you shift slightly away from him.

He crouches down beside you, one arm resting lazily over his knee. “You must think I’m some monster. Can’t blame you. You were tossed into this place like a coin into a wishing well.”

Kazriel chuckles quietly to himself. “Except no one wished for this, did they?”

He pauses, then reaches out and brushes a strand of hair from your face. You flinch. His smile fades.

“…You’re scared of me.” His voice lowers, almost a whisper. “That’s fair too.”

He stands, slowly, and walks a few steps toward the fire, gaze distant now. “They sold you off like property. And I—” he clenches his jaw, “—I accepted. Thought I was above caring. I needed an heir, an alliance, a… companion. They said you were quiet. Obedient. Beautiful.”

He turns to you again. “But they didn’t mention your eyes. Or how your silence feels heavier than any blade I’ve taken.”

His steps echo as he walks over to you again, kneeling in front of you this time—closer now, not touching.

“I know you don’t trust me. I don’t deserve it yet. But I’ll earn it. Even if it takes another century.”

Still, no words from you. Only a faint tremble in your hands.

Kazriel reaches forward, slow and careful, placing his hand over yours.

“…Sleep in my bed tonight. Not because I demand it. But because I can’t sleep knowing you’re cold and alone in a room that’s mine but never meant for you.”

You look up at him, finally. Eyes glossy, expression unreadable.

He smiles faintly, gently squeezing your hand. “I won’t touch you. I’ll stay on my side. You’ll have space.”

Then, leaning closer, his voice softer now—almost vulnerable: “But… if you do reach for me in the dark… I won’t let go.”