Page 62 of Cherished By the Gargoyle
I nod. “I do.” I lift my gaze back to his. “Tell me about your home.”
“Andoryn is surrounded by forests full of trees with purple leaves that stretch to the sky. At night they emit a lovely glow that can be seen from the castle. It’s spring now, and we’ll soon have the festival of flowers. Moon blossoms, roses, tulips… in every color imaginable.
“The streets will be decorated with colorful banners and enchanted Fae lights.” A faint smile crests his lips. “The palace hosts a spring ball, and people from the other Fae kingdoms, like Anara and such, come from all over to attend.”
I’m captivated by the warmth in his voice as he describes his home. In another world, in another life, Ryllen and I might have fallen in love.
“My mother mentioned they’re planning a ball—a celebration of my return and our marriage.”
Ryllen’s eyes brighten. “Ah, you know, my people are famous for their revels. We’ve successfully charmed many partners through our legendary celebrations.” He grins playfully, a teasing glint in his gaze. “I’m an exceptional dancer, Aurora. If you’re not head over heels for me by the end of the ball, I’ll be the shame of all of Andoryn.”
Despite myself, laughter bubbles up in my throat. “You’re impossible.”
He chuckles, eyes twinkling. “And you, my dear princess, are extraordinary.”
Warmth and friendship bloom easily between us, but even as I smile at Ryllen, my heart remains steady and sure. No matter how charming or kind the Fae prince may be, my heart beats only for Thalric. Nothing—not fate, nor prophecy—could ever change that.
CHAPTER 40
AURORA
As I sit at the dining table across from Ryllen, I try my best to push down the ache in my heart for Thalric. The planned ball my parents wanted was canceled, thank the gods, but somehow, this private dinner between just the two of us is worse.
Ryllen is kind, charming even, but my attention falters again and again, drawn irresistibly toward the quiet corner of the room where Thalric stands rigid and silent beside Ryllen’s guard—Lorys.
My pulse quickens helplessly each time I glance his way. His entire form is tense, his wings tucked tightly against his broad, powerful shoulders, his golden eyes fixed upon me. I wonder if he knows how fiercely I long for him… if he can sense the rapid beating of my heart that I’m trying desperately to keep hidden.
“Aurora?” Ryllen’s voice draws my attention back to him.
“I’m sorry, I didn’t—”
He smiles, his eyes darting briefly toward Thalric before returning to me. “I said it’s unfortunate the ball was canceled. You missed a chance to witness my legendary dancing skills.”
A surprised laugh escapes me, easing the tightness in my chest a bit. “Legendary?”
“Utterly legendary,” Ryllen says with a playful grin. “And now you’re tragically deprived.” He rises gracefully, extending a hand toward me. “Would you allow me to rectify that?” He glances at the two servants in the corner, one playing the lute while the other has a violin. “It would be a shame not to dance to this lovely music.”
I hesitate a beat before accepting. Placing my hand in his, I allow him to guide me to my feet.
Ryllen draws me to an open area near the balcony doors, where the cool night air drifts in from outside. He takes me effortlessly into his arms, his movements smooth and assured, guiding me gracefully across the floor.
I’ve always loved to dance, and for a moment all my tension melts away.
“May I show you how we dance in my kingdom?”
I nod and a startled gasp escapes me as he tightens his arm around my waist, his wings flaring wide as he lifts me off my feet. A delighted laugh spills from my lips as he spins us gracefully through the air.
When the song ends, Ryllen sets me back down. “Well, what did you think?” he asks, a teasing smile tugging at his mouth. “Are you thoroughly impressed with my dance skills?”
“A bit.” I laugh.
He grins and guilt fills me. I don’t want to give him false hope. “But my heart is still—”
“I understand.” His gaze meets mine evenly. “And I am not asking you to betray your heart. But I would like to be your friend, if you’ll let me.”
His words ease the tense knot in my chest. I appreciate that he respects my feelings. “I’d like that as well, Ryllen.”
“Good.” A smile crests his lips. The bells chime on the hour from the main temple in the city and he sighs heavily. “It’s getting late. I suppose I should bid you goodnight.”
