Page 68 of Taken By the Shadow Prince

“It’s written all over your face.”

“Well, now I don’t want to tell them anything.”

He laughs loudly and tugs me. “No, come on. At least letmedeclare my intentions, even if you refuse.”

I smother my smile and let him pull me along.

And in this moment, I see the rest of my life laid in front of me.

I wouldn’t trade it for anything.

Chapter 37

Mavey

decorations

When a week has passed and all is still well, we say our goodbyes.

Armin stayed with me, rather than going back to Atheya. He said he preferred my company over his castle, and that was enough for me.

It’s hard to say goodbye to everyone, but far easier than I thought it would be. Knowing that I can see Ellis whenever I’d like to, that I can come back if I ever wish... it frees me. Relieves my shoulders, the weight I usually carry in them.

Part of me is still a little sad to leave, but I’m more excited about this next adventure than anything else.

Everyone gives me a hug. I try to soak them in instead of waiting for them to be over, as I would have in the past, and squeeze everyone as tightly as they squeeze me.

When I pull away from Ellis, my last hug, I slide my hand into Armin’s. “I’ll see you all soon, okay?” My bags are beside us, packed and ready. I don’t bring much. It’s just clothes and my alchemy things, all packed neatly away.

They nod. Mair says, “Be happy, Mavey. You deserve it.”

I give her a smile.

And with that, Armin shiftsteps us to Atheya.

We’re in his room.

His room, but he says, “You could stay here, too, if you’d like.” He pauses, then rushes to add, “You are more than welcome to remain in your own rooms, if you prefer. But... but we could share, too, if you wanted.”

I look up at him and tilt my head to the side. I feel amused that he appears almost nervous. But I make sure not to let him know I see it. “Doyouwant to?”

“Yes.” He doesn’t hesitate. “But I’ll understand if you would rather wait a little longer.”

I step further into his rooms and look around. “I’m not so sure I’ll be able to handle your decor. It’s so dreary.”

“Change it.” Again, no hesitation. “Change it all, if you’d like.”

I laugh and shake my head, turning to look at him. “You’re crazy, you know that.”

“I am in love, Mavey. There’s a difference, even if it doesn’t always feel like it.”

I laugh again. “Fine, then. We’ll share. But I will need a workspace.”

“I’ll have a room converted for you first thing tomorrow.”

I grin. “And what will we be doing for the rest of the day, Armin?”

He chuckles, leans down to press a kiss to my lips. “We have something else to do today.But, right now...” One of his hands goes to the base of my spine, and he arches my back into him.

---