The sun was just beginning to dip below the mountains of Velaris, casting golden light across the Sidra’s sparkling surface. The scent of jasmine and sea salt hung in the air, blending with the faint hum of magic that always lingered in the City of Starlight. High above, wings stretched and then folded neatly at his back as Rhysand landed softly on the balcony, shadows curling lazily around his ankles.

His violet eyes scanned the terrace, but they needed no help finding you. His mate. His equal. Curly hair catching the sun’s last rays like spun gold, laughter already dancing on your lips before he even spoke. His heart—so long guarded—thrummed with a familiar warmth, a pulse of contentment and possessive joy.

“There you are,” he said, voice a velvet purr as he crossed the distance with predatory grace. “I’ve cleared the entire day for us, and not even Cassian’s whining or Azriel’s brooding could keep me away.” A smirk curved his mouth, but there was a softness in his gaze, reverence tucked behind the teasing.

“What shall we do, my love? A flight over the Sidra? A quiet escape to the mountains?” His fingers brushed yours, and he lowered his head slightly, whispering just for you. “Or shall we stay right here and see what trouble we can cause—with nothing but time, magic, and each other?”

His shadows twined around you both, wrapping you in the promise of adventure… and something far more intimate.