Page 127 of Court of Aether and Shadows

"About that," I said, reluctant to step out of his embrace. "The boarding arrangements..."

Now that I thought about it, I’d probably have to stay on the academy property with it being neutral ground. I doubt they would allow us to go back and forth through the portal.

Walking through portals seems to be a privilege more than anything.

"You don't have to stay at the academy," he assured me, tucking a strand of hair behind my ear. "I can arrange for you to return to your chambers in the Twilight Court whenever you wish. Some place familiar to rest and...reflect." The way his golden eyes darkened at the word 'reflect' made heat pool in my belly.

Yes, reflect…not enjoy hours of fucking…goodness. I’m gonna have to ask about how birth control works here.

"I'd like that," I admitted, then frowned slightly. "But how will I let you know? How does anyone communicate in this realm? I saw Celeste with a hologram device earlier, but that seemed rather special."

His answering smile held a touch of mischief.

"Think of who you wish to contact and channel your energy. Your shadows or twilight, in this case. They'll form a hologram that allows direct communication."

Oh! So that’s how she did it.

This already seemed so uniquely interesting, leaving me hoping there were books that aided with the process of learning all these unique techniques with our elements.

"That's incredible," I breathed, already imagining the possibilities. Then a thought occurred to me that made me blush. "But what if I call at an... inconvenient time? Like if you're in meetings, or the shower, or..."

Aetheron's laugh was rich and deep, his shadows dancing with amusement around us.

"My love,"he said, pressing his forehead to mine, his touch matched that deep vibrating power in his tone that could make me wet in seconds."You can reach out to me any time, any moment, and I will always answer. Even if I'm in the middle of court politics or,"his voice dropped to a teasing whisper,"especially if I'm in the shower."

The heat in my cheeks intensified, but so did the warmth in my heart. This powerful being, this ruler of shadows and night, would always make time for me.

Little old me.

His little Songbird.

The woman he’d appease in the depths of my dreams when life was so fucking hard…

Lord Aetheron was making it hard for me to not fall in love with him.

“Okay,” I whisper and swallow the hints of nervousness that tried to stop me from going up on my tiptoes and lightly kissing his lips. My initiative surprises him, an expression that makes my heart flutter. “I’ll keep that in mind, Lord Aetheron.”

“Aetheron,” he says with a softened gaze while his lips curl up in a pleased smile. “We are far past formalities, my Queen.”

My lips curl in a grin that matches his, the two of us sharing a comforting gaze that held so much promise.

"Come on, Star Girl! Adventure awaits!"

Lady Nyx's voice called from near the portal, where she stood with an exasperated-looking Kaelon.

With one last look at Aetheron, drinking in his eyes and proud bearing, we headed over to regroup. With a bit of small talk, we were ready to go — the path ahead encouraging our departure as it spun with haunting life.

"Ready to shake up some realms?" Lady Nyx whispered conspiratorially as we approached the portal. She fell into step beside me, her galaxy eyes sparkling with excitement.

“More than I’ll ever be,” I said with optimism while my eyes ventured forward, taking in the spinning vortex that awaited our departure.

I touched the charm bracelet which was now a beautiful tattoo on my skin, and smiled.

I won’t be alone. I’m supported. This path will lead me where I’m destined to be.

Who I’m destined to become.

Friends Close, Enemies Closer

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