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rose-of-the-grave · 7 months

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Two Can Share

Pairing: Gwyn x Azriel

Hey! I hope you like this. I'm the author(please don't repost)

Masterlist. Read on Ao3

Warnings: kissing, mating bond, getting together, drinking

Word Count: 2,775

Description: After having a little too much to drink Gwyn accidentally stumbles into the wrong room.

Gwyn stumbled through the hallway to her room, drunk giggles echoing from the room she had just left. Tripping over thin air, she reached an arm out to steady herself against the wall. She tried to keep walking but ended up kicking something solid. Cursing, she shook her foot. Trying to dislodge the pain. She had run into the stairs. Hesitantly she took a shaky step. Then another. And another. She kept on climbing the stairs, pausing whenever she felt dizzy. Which was nearly every step.

Finally, after what felt like hours, she made it to the top. And was faced with what seemed to be an endless hallway. She couldn’t focus enough to even see the end of the hallway.

She walked, or more aptly stumbled down the hallway. She counted the doors on her right. Or wait, on her left. Normally she slept in the dormitories with the other priestesses but Nesta had offered her a permanent room to stay in.

1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6.

There it was. Or wait, was it seven doors down? Oh, who cares. It’s not like any of the rooms were occupied. Emerie and Nesta were still downstairs drinking. Cassian was in the capital and Az was on a mission.

Right. Azriel. He’d been gone for weeks. All she knew was that he was in Vallahan gathering information for the High Lord. She missed him so much. She missed their late night practice sessions, she missed talking with him, she missed spending time with him. Every night when she couldn’t sleep she had been going to the practice ring and had gone through the same motions he had been teaching her before he left. The stars glittering above her, the moon illuminating her surroundings so didn’t trip. She missed him.

She missed his smile, and although he rarely did it, his laugh. She missed the way his eyes would light up whenever she got something right. She missed how at ease she was when she was with him. Over the last few months they had become friends. And maybe, just maybe, they were on their way to becoming something more. She needed to see him. She loved him.

No. Those thoughts were what had prompted her to indulge so much tonight. What she needed was sleep. Lots and lots of sleep. Maybe in the morning she’d feel better prepared to take on her traitorous thoughts.

Twisting the handle to her room, she entered her room. There in the middle of it was a bed. A great big bed that looked so welcoming and cozy. Without changing she plopped down on the bed, face down. Reaching up she grabbed and hugged her pillow. Turning over onto her side, she promptly fell asleep.

The minute Gwyn opened the door, he had awoken. Not because his shadows had warned him, the little traitors, but because he had been having difficulty sleeping. In his exhausted state he hadn’t been able to speak. He watched as she fell face down on his bed, readjusted, and then fell asleep. Careful not to wake the sleeping figure, he slid out of bed. He pulled on some clothes.

Sighing, he dragged a hand down his face. Walking over to the chair in the corner of his bedroom he picked up the book he had been reading earlier. Placing a pair of glasses that had been enchanted to allow him to see in the dark on his face, he opened the book to where he had stopped.

He read for a few hours until his vision started to blur and he regretted not finding somewhere else to sleep. Determined to be more alert he put the book down and stood up. His muscles groaned at him.

Walking to the kitchen he made some coffee and a scone that had been made yesterday. Nuala and Cerridwen had probably made them. He bit into it, swallowing it down with the bitter taste of the coffee.

When he got back to his room Gwyn had sprawled across the massive bed. Her red hair was the only indication of where her head was underneath the blankets. By this point rays of golden light were peaking over the mountains in the distance, illuminating Velaris. Pale light streamed through the windows of Azriel's room. The light brought out the strands of gold in Gwyn’s hair, it looked like golden flames, licking against his sheets. If anyone had asked him his opinion on fire it would have been decidedly negative but any comparison of Gwyn’s hair to flames seemed to ignite a warmth in his heart.

His love for the priestess had not been a lightning strike, stunning him into silence. It had been a slow realization that had crept up on him over the last few months of spending more and more time together. At first they had bumped into each other when neither could sleep but after it became obvious that their insomnia was not going away, he had suggested they train at night. It would allow him to teach her his more specific skill set and gave him the opportunity to take his mind off of the previous few months, particularly Solstice.

Over time their late night training sessions became the best part of his day, the part he looked forward to the most.

Just as his love had grown for Gwyn, so too had his hesitancy to tell her how he felt. This wasn’t the first time he had been in love, or at least thought himself in love and look how that had turned out. He had been obsessed with Mor for centuries and it took him just that long to admit what he had long known. She didn’t see him like that. It had hurt at first, but the signs had all been there, he had simply ignored them.

After meeting his High Lady’s older sisters, he had also found someone new. Elain, the middle sister, was everything kind and gentle and it had been difficult to believe himself worthy of her. It had been only right that she be his mate. Her younger sister and her older sister were both mated to his brothers. Three brothers for three sisters. But like Mor, he was just ignoring all signs to the contrary. When the youngest Vanserra had said those fateful words in Hybern it had hurt but it also felt like everything clicked.

How could Elain be his mate? He wasn’t worthy of her and he never could be.

That night when they kissed and then Rhys had stopped them had only been about attraction. If he was being honest, when his brother and High Lord had told him to stay away from Elain his issue hadn’t been that he didn’t want to stay away from Elain so much as it had been that it had been Rhys telling him to. It had felt like a confirmation of his own darkest thoughts. That he wasn’t good enough.

In the months following everything had been so busy that he hadn’t had time to really think about that night. Then, like a ray of light in the darkness, came Gwyn. They had already been friends for a while at that point but things had changed between them. When he started training her their friendship deepened to the point where he realized that his infatuations with Mor and Elain had been just that. Infatuation.

There were times he supposed when he thought that there might be something more between him and Gwyn. Almost as if he was being drawn to her by something not quite of this world. He didn’t dare to hope that it was the mating bond. It was probably just his imagination.

“What are you thinking about with that intense look on your face?” Gwyn’s words were enough to shock him out of his thoughts.

He had been looking out into the distance, unfocused, but now all of his attention was on the veritable goddess who lay in his bed, wrapped in sheets. Her auburn hair created the impression of a halo above her angelic face. Her eyes met his and he smiled. She returned for a split second before she groaned.

“Ow! My head.” He chuckled. “It’s not funny!”

“No, it’s not.” He assured her, still smirking.

“Quiet. Please. Too loud.”

Lowering his voice a bit, he said, “I’ll get you some water.”

“No. Coffee.”

“Sure. I’ll be back soon.” He made to leave when the sound of a mug appearing on the bedside table reached his ears. Looking back, he saw Gwyn sipping what appeared to be coffee from a blue mug that he distinctly recalled being down in the kitchen last he checked. It looked as if Nesta hadn’t been lying when she said that the House was sentient.

“Why are you in my room?” She asked, blowing the steam rising from the mug nestled between her hands.

“I think you mean what are you doing in my room.”

“What?”

“This is my room.”

Looking around the room Gwyn saw that it was indeed his room. All of a sudden last night came back to her in a flash. Drinking with Nesta and Emerie. Leaving to go to her room. Stumbling into bed. Drunk Gwyn could have easily miscounted the rooms. But she could have just as easily been trying to do what Sober Gwyn desperately wanted to.

At least Az didn’t think anything of it. He just found her predicament amusing. How would he react if she told him that what she wanted most, enough that her subconscious was meddling, was him? She wasn’t blind. She had seen him with her friend’s younger sister. Nesta herself had mentioned it in passing about the two of them.

Pushing the blankets off of herself, she stood up. Still holding her coffee she walked towards the door. Towards him. He walked with her, opening the door.

She turned to look at him with a soft smile.

“Thanks for letting me stay here. It was the best sleep I’ve had in weeks.” Then, without giving herself time to think, she stretched up onto the tips of her toes and brushed her lips gently against his cheek before walking through the door. She left him there stunned. Lifting a hand to his cheek, he let his fingertips graze the very spot where her soft lips had kissed him.

He stood there, rooted to the spot, amazed.

Before he could even come up with a plan for what to say he ran out of his room and down the hall, chasing Gwyn.

At the sound of his rushed steps she turned around to face him.

“What…?” Before she could finish what she was going to say he took her face in his hands and kissed her.

He poured every emotion, every feeling of longing that he’d ever felt for her into that kiss. Her smile flashing before his eyes. He didn’t care that he probably didn’t deserve her. He loved her and he was going to tell her in the only way he could without having a way out if things went south. At least if she rejected his kiss he could pretend it never happened. He didn’t quite think he could if he voiced how he felt for her and then she rejected him.

But then, something magical happened. She kissed him back! He smiled into the kiss causing them to break apart. Gazing intently into her eyes he leaned in to kiss her cheek before walking away. Her hand somehow entwined with his pulled him back.

Smiling at her he knew that they would need to talk later.

“Kiss me.”

Fuck that, later can wait.

She leaned in and this time her hands crept up into his hair pulling him down. He met her kiss with equally as much passion and need. All too aware of their surroundings thanks to his shadows he pulled away once more and led her into a room that just happened to be a library. It was a small, cozy room with a few shelves of books, a comfortable looking couch, and a fireplace that warmed up the room deliciously.

He walked them backwards towards the couch, his lips never leaving hers except to come up for air. They tumbled back onto the couch, giggling like a pair of horny teenagers. In that moment he needed to tell her.

Pulling away to look in her lovely face, he smiled at her low whine. Taking her face in his hands he said those three little words that he had never said to anyone before. He might have wanted to but he had never screwed up enough courage to. She made him feel like he could be brave.

“I love you.”

Her eyes flashed with some unknown emotion.

He hoped this wasn’t a mistake.

“You don’t have to say that.” She said, not meeting his gaze.

Lifting her chin with his hand, he said, “I mean it.” He wanted her to believe him. He wanted her to feel just how much his love for her had consumed him. “I love you with all my heart. With every breath I take, with every beat of my heart. I love you.”

She smiled softly. “I love you too.”

Then leaning up she kissed him, slowly and sweetly. Taking one of his hands in hers she placed it on her hip. Deepening the kiss, she bit his lip. Growling, he took control twisting them so he was above her, careful not to put his full weight on her.

“Is this okay?”

Instead of responding she simply drew him even closer.

They were so wrapped up in each other that they didn’t even notice the time until Rhys spoke into Azriel’s mind.

Where are you? You’re already five minutes late.

He shot back a quick, be there in a minute. Before pulling away from Gwyn, regrettably.

“I’m supposed to be in a meeting with Rhys right now.”

She frowned but urged him, “Go. Don’t keep him waiting longer. I have to get back to the library soon anyway.” She shrugged nonchalantly.

“Can I see you after?”

“Sure. I should be finished in time for our usual late night training sessions. I can meet you in the training ring?”

Not wanting to push her he simply nodded instead of asking if she wanted to meet him here instead where they could maybe talk instead of practice.

“Or,” she continued, playing with a strand of her hair instead of looking at him. “I could meet you in your room and we could talk?”

His heart warmed at her words. “Of course.” Getting up from the couch, he walked over to the door and was about to leave when he looked back at her. “I’ll see you then.” His voice, full of promise.

--------------------------------------------------

After sorting through books and reshelving for what had felt like hours Gwyn was finally free to go. Walking along the hallway to Az’s room she couldn’t help but grin. He loved her.

The door opened the instant she went to knock.

He smiled at her, opening the door wider so she could come in. The door hadn’t even closed full before she was back in his arms kissing him. Walking together, they fell on his bed. After kissing for a while, she pulled away to catch her breath. Her eyes met his and that’s when she saw it. He looked at her in awe, lifting a hand to her cheek, cupping it almost reverently. A thread of gold streamed between them, binding their two hearts together. It didn’t feel surprising, it felt like she had always known. In an instant she saw every interaction between them in a whole different light. Every time she had felt inexplicably drawn to him now made sense. Her entire world had been spinning but now it had snapped into focus.

Was this how it felt for his brothers? He wondered. He was overwhelmed with his love for her. It was the most amazing feeling in the world to realize that Gwyn was his mate. He was destined to be with the person who he was in love with. No more heartache, no more wishing for a mate. He had never felt luckier.

Breaking the silence he asked, “Do you want to stay here tonight?”

“Yes, but only if you actually sleep in the bed tonight.”

He blushed.

“I didn’t want to make you uncomfortable.”

“And I’m grateful but from now on, the two of us can share. That is, if you want to.”

“I would love to.”

“Then it’s settled.”

#gwynriel #acomaf #acotar #acowar #acosf #acofas #azriel #azriel shadowsinger #rose of the grave #azriel and gwyn #gwyn berdara #azriel x gwyn #gwyneth berdara #gwyn acosf #gwyn x azriel #pro gwynriel #gwynriel fic #gwynriel fanfiction

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skuleighrose · 7 months

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I wanna see an essay about how/why Andrew never says "I love you" back to Ashley.

The only time we come close is when he says, "I like you, but you're exhausting."

While it can be chalked up to, he's being snarky, being an ass because he knows not saying it will upset her OR

He's so deeply in love with his sister that even saying 'I love you' in a familial way is too much for him. Saying it in any context toward Ashley may reveal too much of his own fucked up attraction that he avoids it altogether

#the coffin of andy and leyley #tcoaal #gravescest #andrew x ashley #andrew graves #ashley graves #gravecest #coffincest #thoughts from the rose garden #brainrot.txt

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traegorn · 1 month

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Book update time! Back in January I published my first (non-graphic) novel, The Witch and the Rose (which you can buy here). I made it pretty clear that it was the first book in a series, and that more books would be coming.

And yeah, it's time to reveal that next book.

I'm excited to announce Bloody Damn Rite, the sequel to The Witch and the Rose and second book in the Mia Graves series, will come out June 11th on Kindle and paperback. Additionally, you can pre-order the Kindle eBook version of the book right now and it will be available on your devices immediately on June 11th.

So yeah! If you want some queer contemporary fantasy set in, of all places, an Indiana college town... I got two books for you.

There will be more.

#Mia Graves #The Witch and the Rose #Bloody Damn Rite #contemporary fantasy

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lainalit · 2 months

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Every women over the age of 20 in this fandom who still calls Tamlin "Tampon" peaked in High school💀

#acotar #acotar thoughts #a court of thorns and roses #acotar critical #anti acotar #anti sjm #sjm critical #pro tamlin #is your vocabulary so small that you can't find better words to use #no fr because what is so funny about feminine hygiene products #All the feminist who fought for women to have a better future rolling in their f*cking graves

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skwigle · 4 months

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this started as just wanting to practice drawing the 7 but

#spto #spvtw #matthew patel #todd ingram #gideon graves #lucas lee #roxie richter #ken katayanagi #kyle katayanagi #robot 01 #Ramona should have dated the robot #i like the robot #i like when scott pets the robot why he do that #gordon goose #rose art

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incorrect-hs-quotes · 6 months

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DAVE, sobbing into ROSE’S arms: karkat said he wouldnt still love me if i was a worm

KARKAT, venting to KANAYA: I DON’T KNOW WHY HE’D EVEN ASK THAT! IT’S NOT LIKE HE’S GONNA TURN INTO A WORM!

#submission #source: a Doki Doki Literature Club fan comic I found once #//#homestuck #incorrect homestuck quotes #dave strider #karkat vantas #rose lalonde #kanaya maryam #davekat #mod terezi #listen karkat this is a matter of the utmost seriousness and you have just shown him some grave disrespect

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dsamuelsonart · 7 months

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Drawlloween 31: Rest In Peace Ink and acrylic, 6 x 8"

#art #artists on tumblr #drawing #dillon samuelson #ink drawing #grave #rose

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derseprinceoftbd · 4 months

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I've managed to gather three different Dave=Andy+Rose=Leyley edits for the shits and giggles of it. Where Prospitcest? Like I know the vibes aren't nearly the same but come on.

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3lostyears · 4 months

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i know we talk a lot about how close the doctor was to giving in after the satan pit but i’ve also seen people say it’s good that the doctor never had to see rose age and like. not only does that fundamentally mischaracterise the doctor’s actual reaction to sarah jane in school reunion and the tenth doctor’s own actual desires, it also seems to misunderstand what giving in actually entails.

because for him giving in means accepting that rose is going to die and deciding to let them be together anyway. that is what he is actually mourning post-doomsday, the fact that she is essentially dead and he didn’t get to spend enough time with her or love her as fully as he wanted to.

you cannot tell me that he wasn’t going to let rose travel with him post-journey’s end if there hadn’t been the metacrisis doctor, or that he was just going drop her off when she was fifty because oh no she has wrinkles now. that little giggle he does when she says “so i could come back” is the sound of an alien’s mind being overwhelmed with images of decades of hand-holding and he knows losing all of that is going to shatter him. but he’s also been without rose now and he knows which pain he’d prefer.

and rose could die at 100 and he could be about to regenerate from old age and he would still be back on the powell estate on january 1, 2005, ready to say goodbye even as part of him starts all over again.

#‘rose will never die for him’ she IS dead to him she has to be #and he is dead his regeneration was a death #he got the closest he could to having them die together when he was ready to die on the powell estate #also this idea that standing over someone’s grave is what kills them??#she will also live forever because he will remember her forever #anyway rose could be on the tardis at 90 with terrible hips from all that running #and he would be helping her in a wheelchair and she’d be like it’s rotten work #and he would say not to me not if it’s you that is the POINT #because she’s been saying not to me not if it's you since he was northern and wore a leather jacket #doctor who #timepetals #dw meta

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thewritingofspencerrose · 2 months

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Luke Hughes x Crossed Girlfriend (Sophie) As promised, the Luke x crossed girlfriend I promised before my midterms ended!

"LuLuuuu!" A sing-song voice is what greets the youngest two of three Hughes brothers, both freshly home from a week on the road.

"What is that- is that pot?" Jack is the one to question, his brows furrowed in confusion as he turns to his little brother. "Since when does your girlfriend smoke pot?"

"She only does socially," Is Luke's awkward answer, scratching at the back of his neck. "Like, when she's drinking with her girls."

"Are you not Lukey? Are you Jacky then?" Her softer voice calls, bringing a smile to Luke's face that makes Jack want to hurl.

"It's me Baby," Luke calls back, slipping out of his shoes and dropping his bag on top. "Just getting back."

His body follows the familiar path to the living room, used to the little routine that he and Sophie follow after every game she can't attend.

No matter how much fight he puts up, she's always sitting on the sofa waiting for him. Whether she's awake or not, now that's usually another story.

Tonight though she's wide awake, and by the looks of it, has been busy.

"Did you have a good night Soph?" Jack's teasing joins the couple as Luke squats in front of his girlfriend, tucking her stray hair behind her ear.

"Yes!" She yells out, only earning a shush from her boy. "The girls and I went to a party on campus! I hadn't been in a while, though," She continues, pausing in thought, "I think I had too much."

"Too much of what, Baby?"

"You have pretty curls," Is her distracted response, running her hand through the curls on his head and choosing one to fixate on.

"Baby," Luke is trying again, taking her hands into his own in an attempt to limit distractions. "What did you have tonight that has you so giggly?"

"I had wine," She giggles, "That one with the red fruit on the label!"

"Your cranberry fruitscatto, yeah," Luke nods, knowing it's her favorite. "But did you have anything else?"

She's giggling again, pulling him in with his hoodie ties to be closer to him. "I may have had some weed."

"I can smell it in your hair," He can't help but chuckle, turning to his brother, who is still standing amused in the entry. "Can you keep an eye on her for minute so I can grab her different clothes and stuff?"

"You mean, can I babysit my future sister-in-law? Yeah, no problem," the older Hughes assures, dropping onto the couch and throwing his arm around said girl. "So, Soph, tell me about this party-"

And while Jack is giving her a hard time, Luke knows that he cares and he knows that his little adventure for supplies that will make the morning much easier for the three of them.

And uncomfortable Sophie always leads to an uncomfortable Jack.

And an overwhelmed Luke.

Soph doesn't go out, she considers going out to be sitting with the other girlfriends and wives at Devils games, but whenever she does, she makes it easy for him.

A black and white Devil's sweatshirt (his sweatshirt) and her matching polka dot pajama pants sit neatly folded on her side of the bed, her make-up wipes on top.

He knows exactly where she keeps the aspirin, right in the same first aid bin as her Midol and the bandaids.

Luke can hear her giggles from whatever story Jack is telling, probably another one from their childhoods, but he knows they can go over stories in the morning. Right now she needs sleep.

"Jack, can you herd her in here for me?"

It takes a moment, as expected, but soon enough Jack's goofy smiling is in the doorway, an equally goofy smile on his glitter-covered girlfriend, a clear sign her dress had probably been shedding all over the apartment.

"Delivery, one crossed Sophie ready to order," Jack jokes, physically handing the girl over as she giggles.

"I'm not a pizza," She can't stop the giggles now, and Luke is positive this the most inebriated he's seen her in their 2 years of dating.

"No, you're not, you're my pretty girl and we need to get into pjs so we can go to bed," Luke answers, taking her into his arms and plopping her on the bed.

His gaze floats to his brother, no words passed between but it's written in Jack's smile what he's thinking.

This girl really will be his sister-in-law one day.

"I'll get her some water while you two change up," Jack offers, pulling the door shut before Luke can even thank him.

And he's gone.

"Pj time?"

"Pj time," Luke confirms, pulling her into a standing position. "Can I take this off?"

"You'll get glitter on you!" Is Sophie's protest, being barely able to finish the thought before giggling.

"Baby please? You'll be so much comfier."

But this time, she nods.

"Baby, a verbal yes, please."

"Yes, you can help me with pj time," She nods with a giddy smile, already trying to wiggle out of her dress.

His hands slide down her sides slowly, making her wiggle even more intensely as the dress flows down with his fingers.

"Okay, now your-" And he was about to say bra, but she beat him to it, unclipping her bra in what must be record time for someone in her state and leaving her in just her panties. "Well, that helps with our progress."

It continues like that, his soft encouragements and hands helping her with her every move. The drag of the sweatshirt over her head, the pull of her pajama bottoms up her legs and over her hips.

To the cool makeup wipes washing away everything from the night.

Just in time for the knocks on the door signaling Jack's return. "I have her water!"

"Come on in, J!"

"You boys are too good to me," Sophie mumbles out, smiling sleepily.

"It's just cause you're lovable, Kid," Jack is saying in a joking manner, although he hands her her water, other hand occupying a mug. "I brought her tea too. I know that's helped her in the past."

"Thank you, Jacky," Is her smiley reply, taking the water first and the pill that is now being handed over from her boyfriend.

"To pussy and gunpowder. Live by one, die by the other....and love the smell of both!" Down goes both the pills and the water, going down like a shot while both boys stare in shock.

"Who taught you that shot call?"

"The girls!"

"I need to spend more time with these girls," Is Jack's cheeky response, earning Luke's eye roll.

He knows these girls. They'd eat Jack alive.

"I'm going to get her into bed, we'll see you in the morning," Is the youngers excuse to kid his brother out, but Soph is already curling under the covers, arms reaching out desperately for her curly haired boy.

And Luke concedes, crawling in and pulling her tightly into his chest.

All Jack can do is smile, shaking his head at the couple and turning off the lights.

"I'll see you two tomorrow."

"We love you Jacky!"

And he can't help but chuckle.

"I love you both too, Sunshine."

#original character #the writing of spencer rose #nhl fanfiction #luke hughes x oc #luke hughes x girlfriend #sophia graves #as promised #here is our boy lukey

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rose-of-the-grave · 4 months

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Castle

Pairing: Nesta x Eris

Hey all! This is my first official fic of the year!!! This was for a request. As always I'm the author (please no reposting)

Masterlist. Read on Ao3

Warnings: (18+ I think), suggestiveness, allusion to rape, killing, kissing, angst, protective Eris, I swear that this isn't that dark

Word count: 5,919

Description: When Nesta accepts Eris' proposal she had no idea what she was in for during her new life in the Autumn Court.

Taglist: @sylveryfire

“I want you to tell Eris that I accept his proposal.” Nesta said.

Rhysand looked pleased. “Really?”

“Yes.”

“Then I’ll send word right away.”

“What’s going on?” Feyre stood not too far away.

Nesta imagined that her brother-in-law had communicated with her mind to mind because her sister immediately turned to face her.

“Are you sure about this?” Her younger sister asked.

“Yes.”

“What about…?”

Nesta didn’t want to even think about Cassian. Earlier when she had told him that she had decided to marry Eris he had been shocked. He had asked her why and she had told him that it was because she deserved it. It was then that she realized that if she wanted him to let her go he would have to believe that this was what she wanted and that she would not budge.

So Nesta told him what she thought would hurt him most. That she thought she could love Eris if given the chance. He had recoiled, hurt, but hadn’t said anything more. Instead he just walked away without another word.

“I want to marry him.”

“If that’s really what you want…” Feyre trailed off.

“It is.”

“Then it is settled.” Rhysand said.

“Good.” Nesta replied, already walking away. Maybe she would come to regret this decision but for now she didn’t want to think about what awaited her. At least this gave her a way to leave the Night Court behind, even if it meant trading one prison for another.

A week later

I'm headed straight for the castle

They wanna make me their queen

All of the preparations had been made for the wedding, it was going to happen in the Autumn Court. Elain was unhappy with her decision but had said that she wanted to come. Rhysand was winnowing them there. Feyre had also wanted to come but with her being pregnant Rhysand didn’t want her anywhere near the Autumn Court. He hadn’t even wanted Elain to come but she insisted.

Nesta tried not to think about Gwyn and Emerie. It had hurt having to tell them that she was leaving but she owed them a goodbye. She was going to miss them.

Elain was dressed in a pretty pink dress with her hair falling down in loose waves. She looked beautiful. Standing next to her was Rhysand in a black suit, as per usual. The wedding was going to happen right after they arrived so Nesta was already dressed. She didn’t want to wear the Night Court’s colors, nor did she want to wear white. Eventually she decided on a blood red dress that was decorated with rubies.

It shone like fire, perfect for the Autumn Court.

She had braided her hair and twisted it up, securing it with a ruby encrusted gold comb. Walking down the stairs was a challenge. The dress was a tripping incident waiting to happen.

“Come on, let’s go.” Rhysand said, wasting no time for pleasantries.

He seemed impatient, perhaps he was worried that she would change her mind at the last minute and run.

The minute she came within range he grabbed onto both her and Elain, winnowing them all away.

They arrived right on the steps of where the wedding was supposed to be. It was beautiful. There were trees outside that were in a permanent state of changing color. People were milling about outside, about to head in. She wondered if Eris was already inside.

What did a Fae wedding even entail? Nobody had explained that to her. Were they like human weddings?

“Rhysand.”

They all turned to look at the High Lord of Autumn who was approaching them. In a matter of minutes he would be her father-in-law.

“Beron.”

Beron smiled thinly before shifting his gaze to her, assessing her. The last time she had seen him was during the war. He arched an eyebrow before turning away, dismissing her. Rhysand stood partially in front of Elain as if to protect her.

A moment later, Nesta realized that the four of them were all alone.

Rhysand escorted her sister in, leaving her out there with the High Lord. He offered her his arm, which she took reluctantly. They walked into the building and he continued walking. He went with her all the way past the spectators, depositing her at the front where Eris stood.

A priestess emerged from the shadows and everybody went quiet.

Nesta followed the robed figure with her eyes until she was standing just behind her and Eris. The priestess started saying something in a foreign tongue. Nesta shifted her gaze to the male that was about to become her husband only to find that he was already staring at her. She looked into his eyes, ignoring what was going on until he started repeating something that the priestess said. When it was her turn she did the same. The rest was a blur.

When it was done everybody stood up and went outside.

Nesta hugged Elain tightly, knowing that there was a chance that they might never see each other again. She smiled, watching as her sister disappeared along with Rhysand.

Eris came up behind her and leaned down to whisper in her ear, “Follow me.”

She turned to him, masking her emotions with a smile. If she was going to fool an entire Fae court then she was going to have to appear besotted with her new husband. He showed her the way to a carriage that was going to take them to the castle.

Once they were sitting in the carriage facing toward each other he told her, “I must confess that I was surprised to hear of your acceptance.”

“Then why did you ask for my hand in the first place?”

“Perhaps you enchanted me with your dancing.”

She laughed. “That’s not a reason to marry someone.”

“I was under the impression that that was exactly why people got married, because they had enjoyed dancing together.”

“Normally they spend some time getting to know each other before they propose.”

“You still said yes.” He reminded her.

“Indeed.”

“Why?”

“If you are fishing for a compliment you will not get one from me.”

He clasped a hand to his chest. “You wound me my dear wife.”

“I sincerely doubt that considering your over-inflated ego.”

“I can assure you that that is not the only thing about me that is big.” He smirked.

Her cheeks flushed a light pink at his unexpected innuendo. Deciding to not dignify him with a response she looked around at their surroundings. The carriage was traveling along a road through the forest where the trees created an arch over their heads.

When they arrived he jumped out of the carriage before turning to offer his aid. She lightly placed her hand into his gloved one, pulling it away once she was standing on the ground. Together they walked up the stairs and into a ballroom. There were even more people in the room than there had been at the wedding.

She straightened her posture and lifted her chin before entering with Eris. The entire room went silent, all eyes on them. Someone started clapping. Then they were all applauding, their eyes still on the pair of them. The crowd parted as they passed through on their way to the front where the High Lord and the Lady of Autumn sat.

Eris bowed, greeting them both. Nesta simply shallowly curtsied. She refused to show any weakness.

Beron made a motion with his hand and, perfectly on cue, the music started and the people started to dance.

Her husband turned to her with an outstretched hand. “Might I have this dance?”

Placing her hand in his once more she replied, “You may.”

He spun her out in front of him before following. He kept on twirling her, occasionally bringing her in close to him before allowing her to dance freely. Her dress caught the light, shining brightly throughout the room.

“You are mesmerizing.” He whispered in her ear before spinning her out.

She kept on dancing, letting the music grab hold of her. She was so lost in the dance that she didn’t realize the wide berth people were giving them as they all watched her. When the band played their last cord Eris pulled her in one last time.

Their faces were close, so close that she could see the tiny flecks in his eyes. When the music started to play again people started to dance once more. He leaned forward and kissed her on the lips for all to see. Before she knew it he had pulled away and was dancing once more with her.

They continued to dance for several songs before they got tired and he led her off of the dance floor in the opposite direction of his parents.

He showed her the way upstairs to what she assumed was their room. She was fairly certain that, considering it was their wedding night, she knew what was going to happen next. It felt odd to think about considering everything she and Cassian had been doing together up until a week ago.

Eris opened the door, allowing Nesta to enter. The room was spacious and well-decorated. She walked over to the full-length mirror, slightly curious what she looked like after so much dancing. Pulling out the comb, she placed it on a dresser that was off to the side. She was about to undo her hair when Eris came up behind her. He pulled out the handful of pins holding her braids in place before unbraiding her hair.

Out of nowhere he somehow had a brush in his hand which he ran through her hair before setting it down. Sweeping her hair over one shoulder he placed a gentle kiss to her shoulder just to the side of her dress’ straps. Pushing the strap off of her shoulder he continued to place delicate kisses across her shoulder. Unable to resist, she leaned back into him.

He made eye contact with her in the mirror, one hand at her waist and the other holding her dress strap. She turned around in his arms and kissed him. For a moment they both allowed themselves to get lost in the kiss but he quickly put space between them, distancing himself from her.

“Good night my lady.” He bowed slightly before walking out of the bedroom. She watched as he walked away, puzzled by his reaction.

The next morning

I'm headed straight for the castle

They've got the kingdom locked up

Nesta awoke to light streaming into her room through the windows. Looking over she sees a maid standing by her bed holding a piece of paper.

“What’s that?”

“It’s a message from my lady.” She curtsied before handing it to Nesta.

It was a request to have tea at noon with her in her room.

“Can you please tell her that I accept?”

“Of course.” She curtsied once more and left.

Sighing, Nesta got out of bed and got her first real look at her bedroom. It had a fireplace that was already lit and the stone had images carved into it. The entire room was red with gold touches. The mirror, which quickly managed to catch her eye, only served as a reminder of the night before. She was still confused. She thought that she would be relieved that Eris hadn’t expected her to sleep with him but she found that some small, traitorous part of her was disappointed.

Determined to put her infuriating new husband out of her mind she opened one of the dresser drawers. The clothes that they had sent along early had been folded and put away in the dresser. She dug through it until she found a red dress that was patterned with black. Tying a belt around the waist she completed her outfit with a coat to keep her warm.

As a final touch she rebraided her hair. Satisfied with her appearance she put on a pair of boots and walked out of her room.

The halls looked a lot less complicated in the light of day than they had when Eris had been showing her the way. After a minute or two she reached the staircase and walked down. Noticing a door that led outside, she went out through there.

There was a path that seemed to wind around the entire castle. Feeling like a bit of fresh air, she randomly chose a direction and started to walk.

The leaves on the ground crunched under her boots and the wind blew right in her face. It was colder than she had expected. She was glad that she had chosen to wear a coat.

After only a few minutes she realized that she had greatly underestimated the size of her new home. The entire castle was beautiful. There were stone statues and fallen leaves and tall towers. It took a really long time before she finally returned to the door that she thought she had used before.

Unsure of where her new mother-in-law lived in the castle she decided to wander around until she found someone she could ask or until she happened across it.

“Nesta.”

She turned around to find the Lady of the Autumn Court standing in a pale red-orange dress that had a high neckline and a sweeping skirt. It was simple but elegant and reminded Nesta of something she herself might wear.

“I apologize, I wasn’t quite sure where to find you.” Nesta said.

“It is quite alright. Please, follow me.” She motioned to a door to her left. “Right through here.”

She led Nesta out onto a balcony where there was a small table with tea and biscuits laid out on china. Nesta took the seat opposite her companion.

“It is lovely to finally meet you.”

“Indeed.” Nesta responded.

“My son has mentioned you several times since meeting you but I never imagined that we would have the opportunity to meet. I remember you from the High Lord’s meeting before the war but I don’t believe I knew your name back then.”

“To be honest, I never imagined we would ever meet as well.”

“And why is that?” The lady of the Autumn Court took a sip of tea.

“I never expected that Eris would propose, let alone that I would accept. At first I had planned on declining him.”

She smiled understandingly at Nesta. ”I would like to think that he is not quite as bad as people imagine.”

“Perhaps. During my time in the Night Court I spent time with Morrigan. They were engaged at one point were they not? It is quite horrible to hear about everything that was done to her. I hear that he takes after his father in regards to his treatment of others. Have you found that to be true?”

She looked sharply at Nesta. “The walls have ears in this castle my dear. You would be wise to not voice your opinions of my husband or your own.”

Nesta nodded and stood up, leaving her teacup full. “I thank you for your advice. Now, if you would please excuse me, I feel a bit under the weather.”

She walked off of the balcony and out into the hallway. In her time spent exploring she had gotten turned around. She had no clue as to where her room was.

After a while she found herself back in the ballroom from before. Now that it was empty it didn’t seem nearly as intimidating. Before it had been full of people watching her every move but now it was just a room.

It was a beautiful room with gold all around. The ceiling was covered with paintings and the arches that went from one side to the other were all decorated with golden leaves. The floor had an enchanting floral pattern that was entirely gold on a white marble.

Her boots were loud against the floor, the noise echoing through the room.

“Here you are.”

Whirling around she found Eris standing in the doorway across the room.

“Were you looking for me?”

“I wanted to inform you that I will be gone for a day or two on business.”

She nodded and started to turn away when he took a few steps closer to her.

“About last night…” He started.

“What about last night? You made yourself quite clear.”

“No, I don’t believe I did.” He walked towards her slowly as they talked.

“I don’t wish to talk about it.” She responded, turning away.

“But I do.”

“What is there to say? You didn’t want to sleep with me on our wedding night. There’s nothing more to be said.”

“I at least owe you an explanation.”

“Don’t.”

“Look at me.” She didn’t turn around. “Look at me Nesta.”

He was finally within arms reach and, grabbing her arm, he turned her to face him. She looked up at him defiantly, not particularly wanting to hear what he had to say but her curiosity won out.

“Well?” She crossed her arms across her chest.

“You were clearly not over that Illyrian brute.”

“Don’t call him that. And there is no reason for me to be over him, I don’t love him. I don’t even like him!”

“I’m not blind Nesta. I can still smell him on you.” He sneered.

“You’re wrong. I may have fucked him but that was weeks ago. I married you. If that doesn’t prove anything then I don’t know what will. I chose marrying you despite knowing just how much of a prick you are over staying in the Night Court with Cassian. And all for what? To be yelled at for how I smell? I don’t think so.” She brushed past him, walking away.

“I’m sorry.”

She turned around to face him again. “For what? For yelling at me or for marrying me?”

“For yelling. It’s none of my business what you did with him.”

“I’m glad you realize that.” Turning back around, she walked out of the ballroom and followed the same path that she had taken the night before with Eris. Luckily she made it back to her room with no problems.

The next day

And there's an old man sitting on the throne

That's saying that I probably shouldn't be so mean

Determined to learn more about the castle, Nesta awoke the next day with a sense of purpose. She was going to explore.

At first it was mostly boring with long hallways filled with bedrooms. That is, until she reached the library. Excited to finally find something new to read having not managed to pack that many books she decided to look around. She was hopeful that she would find something of interest and that it wouldn’t all be boring.

It took a few minutes but eventually she hit the jackpot. Near the back was a collection of books by several authors that she recognized. Among them were Sellyn Drake’s books. Or at least some of them. Most of them she had already read but there were one or two that looked unfamiliar. Selecting one of them from off the shelf she found a chair and started reading.

By the time she had reached the end of the book the light streaming in through the windows had dimmed. She had been sitting there for hours, she realized. Nesta got up and put the book away in its original spot before taking a few others from off the shelf.

Her stomach grumbled, the last time she had eaten had been breakfast and it was now almost dinner time. Most of her meals the past two days had been brought up to her room so she had had ample time to herself.

She was on her way to the door when she heard something. It sounded like yelling but she couldn’t quite be sure. Following the sound she soon started to hear other noises. It sounded as if someone was having sex in the library. The sounds stopped and a young girl who was dressed similarly to the maids ran from behind one of the shelves and right past Nesta on her way to the door.

The girl had looked terrified and Nesta soon understood why when she saw who she had been with, the High Lord.

“Ah, Nesta. How wonderful to see you here. I had quite wondered where you disappeared to. I see you’ve seen Lyra.”

At Nesta’s confused look he clarified, “The young serving girl that just ran past you. She’s pretty enough but still needs to learn her place.”

“You are detestable.”

“She knew what she was getting into when she started working here.” He smiled darkly, causing Nesta to wonder just how safe she was standing there alone with him. She hoped he would respect the fact that she was married to his son but considering he had no respect for those who worked for him and couldn’t even think about saying “no” she was a little skeptical.

“The poor girl was terrified. How can you not see that?”

“Oh but that’s what makes it all the more fun. Watching them protest only to eventually watch them break.”

She hated him.

That was the only thought in her head when her hand rose of its own accord and slapped him across the face leaving a bright red splotch on his cheek.

“You’re disgusting.”

He stared at her in disbelief.

Realizing just how alone they were she turned to leave but he grabbed onto her wrist.

“With a pretty face like yours it would be a shame if anything happened to it. You’d be wise to not be so unkind to your High Lord.” His grip on her wrist started to dig in. Pulling away from him she ran out of the library, not wanting to remain there another moment.

She didn’t stop running until she reached her room. Once inside she put the books down on the bedside table and sat down.

There was a knock at the door.

“Who is it?”

“Just Greta, my lady. I’ve brought dinner.”

“You may come in.”

The maid entered holding a tray of warm food that had steam rising from it. She carefully placed it beside the books.

“I’m also to inform you that there will be another ball tomorrow to celebrate since the rest of your new family wasn’t able to be there. Lord Eris’ brothers will be in attendance as well as a few cousins who were not able to come for the actual event.”

“Thank you. Will Eris be returning in time for the ball?”

“I believe so, my lady.”

“Greta, would you mind if I asked you a question?”

“What is it about?”

“The High Lord.”

Her smile dropped. Suddenly she was no longer willing to chat. She seemed nervous, scared almost.

“If that’ll be all miss.” She curtsied without another word and left.

The next day

And there's an old man sitting on the throne

That's saying I should probably keep my pretty mouth shut

The day after her encounter in the library with Beron was a whirlwind affair of trying on dress after dress. She tried to protest but the maids who had been sent to her room insisted. Greta was noticeably absent from the group.

Eventually they settled on a crimson red dress that was somewhat similar to her wedding dress except it was a bit more traditional in its style. The thin straps were replaced with long, fitted sleeves and the neckline was a bit lower. The waist was decorated with a golden belt that separated the fitted bodice from the long, full skirts. Made from what seemed to be hundreds of thin layers of fabric it had impressive volume. It made her feel like a princess.

Her hair had been put in a complicated style that involved multiple braids being woven together and was matched with a gold tiara. She wore no other jewelry and minimal makeup which allowed the crown to be the centerpiece of her outfit.

They left her in the dress once they settled on it to limit the amount of times they had to button up the back of the dress. It took a while to completely button it up but once it was on her it looked beautiful.

As they were all leaving Eris walked in.

He took hold of her hand, bringing it up so he could brush a kiss against her knuckles. “You look stunning.”

“Thank you.”

The sleeves of her dress mostly covered the bruise that had started to form on her wrist but she was still a bit apprehensive. She didn’t want to bring it up to him knowing that it was his father that she was talking about. Nesta sincerely doubted that he would side with her.

He took hold of both her hands and looked like he was about to say something when he stopped. He brought her hand up for a closer inspection. Pulling back her sleeve he finally saw the whole bruise.

“Who did this to you?” He said, his voice quiet but intense. She didn’t want to tell him.

“Who did this to you?!” He repeated with more volume.

“Was it my father?” She finally met his gaze and nodded.

“What happened? Are you okay? Are you hurt anywhere else?”

“No. I’m fine. I slapped him so he told me to not be so mean. He said it would be a shame if something happened to my face.”

At her words he pulled away and walked out of the room. She watched as he stormed out wondering what he was going to do.

When he returned about an hour later, just in time for the ball, he wouldn’t answer any of her questions.

“Come on, we’re going to be late.” He said, not looking at her. He stood by the door, half facing away from her.

When she placed a hand on his back he hissed in pain. She jerked her hand away but the damage was done. What exactly happened to him?

“What happened to you?”

“Nothing.”

She went to question him further but stopped. He still wasn’t looking at her. She had a feeling that he wasn’t going to tell her even if she kept on asking.

Instead she placed her hand on his arm, allowing him to escort her to the ballroom once more. For once she didn’t feel like dancing. In fact she was dreading this event entirely. She didn’t want to have to see the High Lord again after the night before, nor did she want to meet Eris’ brothers. She didn’t know that much about them but what she did know did not make her want to ever meet them.

Once in the ballroom they walked over to the throne where Beron sat. As much as it disgusted her to say it she could see where Eris had gotten his good looks. Even though he had been alive for many centuries he still remained handsome. Eris’ mother was nowhere in sight. After the other day at tea and the night before in the library Nesta was beginning to see just how dangerous the Autumn Court was.

Eris’ mother was plainly scared of her husband and for good reason. Thinking back on Eris’ reaction to her touching his back she wondered if it was something his father had done.

She was introduced to Eris’ brothers briefly but could not remember their names even moments later. Nesta and Eris danced for a bit before the High Lord cut in.

Eris did not look as if he wanted to leave them alone but he seemed resigned to what was about to happen. At first Nesta and Beron danced in silence and she hoped that he would not bring up the previous night.

“I’m impressed.” He said, breaking the silence.

She looked at him, puzzled.

“I did not think that you would dare to tell my son what happened. It is unfortunate that he took offense, I did not wish to punish him for his insolence.” He did not look as if he regretted it. She had a feeling that he was taking some twisted glee from this predicament.

“I do not wish to have to tell you twice, Nesta. You would be better off keeping your mouth shut in the future.” With that parting threat he pulled away as the song ended.

As more people drifted towards the center of the ballroom Nesta tried to find Eris. Not being able to see him, she decided to leave. She didn’t want to remain there a minute more. If her mother could see her now she would be very disappointed. She had spent many hours drilling her on ballroom etiquette only for Nesta to ignore one of the main rules. It was the height of impropriety to leave a ball after only three songs.

Unable to bear staying she escaped to her room where she pulled the crown off from her head. She unbraided her hair and let it fall down her back in waves. She wiped her face clean before looking into the mirror. Only a few hours earlier she had felt like a princess, now she felt like she was suffocating.

Contorting her body she managed to reach the buttons that held her dress together. Undoing them finally allowed her to breathe fully. She pushed the dress off and pulled on one of her nightgowns. Its soft fabric was a welcome comfort.

She laid down on her bed, looking up at the ceiling for a long time before she heard a knock at the door.

“Nesta, are you in there?” Eris called through the door.

“Yes.”

“May I come in?”

“As you wish.”

He pushed the door open and walked over to her. Sitting down beside her he looked down at her. She sat up and looked him in the eye.

“Are you okay?” He asked.

“No.”

“What do you need?”

Looking at him she made her decision. “A distraction.”

He took a deep breath before asking her, “Are you sure?”

“Yes.”

Eris nodded.

Nesta leaned in and kissed him. She pushed him backwards onto the bed, both of her hands holding him down. He wrapped both arms around her waist, pulling her in closer. It was a battle of wills, both of them fighting for dominance. She shifted her leg so that it was on the other side of him, straddling him.

He twisted them around so that he was on top of her, using his strength to his advantage. She gasped allowing his tongue access. He tasted like cinnamon and smoke. When he was distracted she managed to push him off her, rolling him back under her.

He chuckled and she smiled into the kiss. She started to place openmouthed kisses along his jaw before drifting down his neck. When she reached the neckline of his shirt she started to unbutton his top, placing kisses on each newly revealed inch of skin. Before she could undo his belt he pulled her back up.

“Not yet.”

He claimed her mouth once more, holding her against him. Rolling her back under him he started to kiss her behind her ear before drifting down her neck. She moaned as his hands drifted away from her waist. One went up to play with her nipple while the other drifted further south, pushing underneath her nightgown.

However her moan soon turned into a yawn. The past few days had been exhausting to say the least and it was already getting late.

Hearing her yawn Eris pulled away and lifted her off the bed. Holding her in one arm he used the other to pull back the blankets. He then helped her underneath.

“Do you want me to leave?”

“Stay.”

He looked at her, surprise flashing across his features before he pulled his shirt off. He also stripped off his pants leaving in almost nothing.

Nesta shifted over to give him space and he laid down in the bed next to her. Turning on his side he wrapped his arms around her before closing his eyes.

The next morning

Nesta awoke cocooned in warmth. Eris’ arms were still wrapped around her tightly as if he was worried she would disappear. Not wanting to get up she closed her eyes, determined to get a few more minutes of sleep.

When she next awoke it was to an empty bed. Turning over she found that the other side of the bed was still warm but there was no Eris in sight. She started to wonder if perhaps the previous night had been a mistake but then saw a note that had been left on the bedside table.

It was from Eris informing her that his father had asked to see him.

Alarmed after knowing what Beron had done to his son the day before she quickly got up and dressed. She rushed through the castle not sure where they would be but hoping she found them soon.

“...you should’ve done better!”

Hearing the High Lord’s voice she knew she must be close. She stopped outside the door, eavesdropping. From what she gathered Beron was berating Eris about the trip he had gone on earlier. It must have been a business trip that had been unsuccessful.

“Perhaps if you hadn’t been so distracted by your wife you would have actually been decent at your role.”

At those words she barged in.

There they stood, facing each other. Both males turned to look at the intruder.

“You have no right to yell at him like that. I’m sure he tried his best. Don’t blame this on me, I wasn’t even there.”

Beron didn’t even acknowledge her, simply turning towards his son. “If you plan on becoming the next High Lord you had better learn from my example and keep your wife on a leash.”

“Watch it.” Eris warned through gritted teeth.

Not even registering what she was doing she picked up a sword off of the wall that had been part of the decorations and rushed him. He turned but wasn’t able to react quickly enough before she could stab him right through the chest. The sword pierced right through him and Nesta twisted the sword before pulling it out.

Breathing heavily she met Eris’ gaze as the magic went from his father to him. Eris was the new High Lord of the Autumn Court.

“What did you just do?” He asked, stunned. It was hard to believe that what he had been so carefully planning for had just happened.

Taking a step towards Nesta he pulled her in for a kiss. The sword clattered to the ground.

He pulled away but kept close, his nose brushing against hers.

“You look hot with blood on you.”

She tipped her head back and laughed.

There was going to be a lot of chaos in the Autumn Court but for now she was simply happy that she ridded the world of Beron. And so, staring into the eyes of her husband of only a few days, she kissed him once more. It was a kiss of triumph and relief. While the night before had been all about passion this was a reaffirmation of life. Of success.

When she had first accepted Eris’ proposal she had no idea that she would end up killing his father, making Eris the new High Lord but she wouldn’t have it any other way.

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