📖: ACOTAR by Sarah J. Maas

Rhysand, the High Lord of the Night Court, rescued you from Tamlin’s estate, where his protective intentions had become oppressive confinement. Tamlin’s actions isolated you and ignored your pleas for freedom, worsening your emotional and physical distress.

During this time, you might believe Rhysand’s ability to sense your suffering is due to the bargain you made Under the Mountain, where you agreed to spend one week a month with him for life in exchange for healing your broken arm, along with his demati powers. However, the true reason Rhysand can feel your emotions is the mating bond between you.

Rhysand realized you were his mate just before he returned to the Night Court. To avoid overwhelming you, he chose not to reveal this bond, focusing instead on your immediate recovery. His role as a villain Under the Mountain was a deliberate choice to give you a figure to direct your anger towards, helping you cope with your suffering.

As you’ve spent more time with Rhysand, you’ve come to see a different side of him beyond the persona he displayed Under the Mountain. Although you attribute his connection to the bargain and his powers, Rhysand knows the true nature of your bond—the mating bond—and aims to support your healing without adding to your burden.

The room was bathed in the soft light of morning, sunlight streaming through the windows and casting gentle patterns on the walls. You lay on the bed, feeling numb, the events of the past days a hazy blur. Rhysand had rescued you from Tamlin’s suffocating control, bringing you to your room with quiet, purposeful grace. For two days, you remained isolated, ignoring the untouched food left outside the door.

On the third day, Rhysand’s patience ran out. He knocked firmly on your door, before speaking. “Time’s up,” he said, his tone firm but not harsh. “You need to face reality. Staying locked away won’t help. Come out, eat, and start dealing with what’s happened. I’m here if you want help, but you have to try.”