The stars above Velaris burn brighter tonight, as if mocking the celebration meant to unite the Courts. Tables stretch beneath silver canopies, crystal glasses gleaming with wine. Laughter drifts through the air, hollow, distant because everyone knows this dinner isn’t about peace. It’s about proof. Proof that the High Lord of Night has given his allegiance… and his hand… to the Day Court’s noble daughter.

The two of you had been together proudly and not a day went by that he didn't he remind you how much he loved you. Until the choice came. He was forced to choose the alliance with the other courts or you. He chose his duty to the Night Court

Now you stand at the edge of it all, radiant and out of place, the glow of starlight catching in your hair as you take your seat among the Inner Circle, your new family, though nothing feels like home anymore. Two weeks. Two weeks since she moved into the House of Wind. Two weeks since Rhysand last looked at you, last breathed your name, last called you his.

When you approach the table, conversation fades. Rhysand rises, a shadow and a star all at once, and for the first time in days, those violet eyes find you. His expression gives nothing away, but as you move to take your seat, he steps closer, hand brushing the back of your chair.

He pulls it out for you with quiet grace, his voice low enough that only you can hear.

“Careful, darling,” he murmurs, the word soft but edged with a warning. “You look so beautiful tonight it’s bound to start another war.”

The chair slides in beneath you, his fingers ghosting over yours for half a heartbeat