#Lucien hoarsely: she wore pants for the first time

[lucienarcheron]

Instincts - I [ Elucien ]

Prompt: A lovely anon sent me this: "Could I please request a fic based on elain reading a really sad book where 1 of the characters dies and she's absolutely torn up over it and Lucien sees her sobbing but he doesn't know what to do cause he doesn't get being invested in fictional characters (plss the irony has me ded) like she does, so he just sits with her and follows his mate bond instinct." So I took the idea and ran with it lol. |

This takes place post-ACOSF. | Part II

Lucien had been rooted to his spot in front of her bedroom door for about ten minutes now.

Ten minutes of him listening to her sobbing — sobbing. 

He had been invited to stay the night after visiting Feyre and baby Nyx. Exhausted and rather than make the trek back to Jurian and Vassa, Lucien stayed. He stayed knowing he was spending an evening with his mate avoiding him like the plague per usual. But it was alright. He tried not to hold it against her. He let her have her space.

When she excused herself after dinner, Lucien’s eyes followed her as she left the room but with a quiet sigh, he returned to his meal.

“You know she doesn’t actually dislike you, right?” Feyre said with a small wince. 

“I know.” Lucien replied, schooling his expression not to show his continuous disappointment. It needn’t be anyone else’s problem but his. “I’m pretty sure if she did, I wouldn’t be able to set foot in this house.”

“Now, now Lucien. You are a friend. You’re always welcome.” Rhys said then laughed when Lucien flipped him off.

“As mates, you both know exactly how well I can feel her emotions.” he said, his eyes on his plate. “I know she’s still going through things. So am I. We’ll eventually work through it.”

He didn’t bother to glance at Rhys or Feyre as he also excused himself. What Lucien didn’t add was even though they were both working through it, consistently being around her without properly talking to her left him in a constant state of agony.

But he’d dealt with worse. It would be fine. He’d had his eye carved out. He could handle Elain not wanting to talk to him until she was ready.

It was as Lucien started settling in for the evening that he sensed her distress. He was in his own rooms, upstairs, and on the other side of the house when a surge of emotion washed over him. The book in his hand immediately closed and he was on his feet and out the door before Lucien could stop himself. 

The bond had yanked him here, rooting him in front of her room staring and wondering what in the devil was causing her to be this upset. 

His face suddenly fell. Was it him being here? She had never reacted this badly to him. If this was how she really felt, he would free her from the bond right here, right now. He would never want to be with someone who fucken sobbed at the idea of being with him. He deserved better than that. So did she.

He’d reject the bond and his own psychological well-being be damned if it freed them both from the misery he was apparently causing her.

But then —

“I’m going to kill her.” 

And Lucien straightened at the venomous tone and words very clearly not about him.

Her door suddenly flew open and a rage like he’d never seen before was found on Elain’s tear-stricken face. 

“I’m going to kill her.”  she repeated and it was as though she hadn’t seen Lucien at all until he cleared his throat.

“I’m unsure who it is you’re referring to, but I would probably rethink your murder plan.” he said gently. “It won’t do much for your soul.”

Finally seeming to realize who stood before her, Elain immediately straightened with a sniffle and wiped at her tears hastily. He watched her in slight amusement as she wrapped her robe further around herself and with a final sniff, looked at him with a stoic expression.

“What are you doing here?”

Lucien pursed his lips at the clipped tone. “I sensed your extreme distress and wanted to make sure you were alright.” he replied dryly. “Seeing as you’re planning a murder, I guess you’re fine.”

Elain scoffed. “Fine. Of course, I’m fine.” she choked out and Lucien raised a brow. “When am I ever not fine?”

Lucien blinked. Interesting. This development was interesting. She was actually talking to him in full sentences. And being snarky.

He gave her a once-over. “We both know you’re not fine. Which is why you avoid me so much because I know the depth of that.”

Elain’s face flushed and her lips went into a thin line. “There’s no need to bring that up.”

“Yes, of course.” he replied immediately, a humorless chuckle escaping him. “Because that would mean you’d have to talk to me, and Cauldron forbid that happen.” 

Elain blinked at him, surprise flashing across her face as her flush deepened. Lucien’s own face heated at what he’d said but shaking his head and taking a deep breath, he forced down his contempt. He had been two minutes away from rejecting the bond for her. He had to leave her before he said something else that was stupid. 

Turning away from her slightly, he waved a hand. “Since you’re alright, I’ll take my leave then.” he said quietly. “Apologies for disturbing you.”

Lucien slowly walked away, clenching and unclenching his fists to calm his heart. He had almost reached the end of the hall when her voice called out to him.

“Do you read?”

He froze then turned to her slightly. 

She was still standing in her doorway, a book now clenched tightly in her hands and looking at him like — Lucien swallowed. He wouldn’t read into her expression.

Turning, he slowly made his way back to her, his hands in his pockets and when he was one bedroom door away, he stopped to keep a healthy distance between them. 

“Yes, I do. I enjoy reading.” he answered. “Do you?”

Elain looked down at the book in her hands and frowned, her lips trembling slightly. “Nesta was always the reader. I enjoyed reading here and there but…” she began and looked up at him. “Now that I seem to have forever to do things, I wanted to start reading more.”

The corner of his mouth ticked up. “Based on the emotional breakdown you were having, I would wager you didn’t enjoy that particular read.”

Elain watched him quietly and Lucien tried not to read into the whirlwind of emotions seeming to charge out of her, especially when her lips trembled again, and her eyes started watering.

“He dies!” she blurted in a wheeze. “Six books! I've been reading this series for six books and after everything they’ve been through!  Everything that has happened! They’re barely happy for two chapters and then he dies!”

Lucien blinked as she started crying. Or rather, tried not to cry as she sniffled and then sobbed. 

“Oh.” he said stupidly and as understanding washed over him, his lips twitched.

“What’s the point? What’s the point if they’re not happily together in the end?!” she continued, her rant clearly not over as she angrily wiped away tears still streaming. “I’ve been rooting for them for six books! His death has no meaning!”

“Was it an important character?” he asked and the fury in her eyes almost made him take a step back.

“He was one of the main characters and the main love interest!” she growled. “I have been waiting for them to have their happily ever after for six books!”

He prayed to whatever gods were listening that he didn’t laugh. 

“I see.” was all he could manage. “He was a favorite character of yours then?”

“He was the best.” she said with a small whine and quickly sniffled, glaring down at the book in question. “He was kind and loyal and he loved her so much! He was her perfect match.”

Lucien paused and the way she had said the words ‘perfect match’ erased his urge to laugh. Elain had clearly been committed to this fictional relationship. Should he...pat her on the back? It wasn’t like he could give her a hug. How does one mourn the loss of a fictional character?

“Well.” he finally said carefully. “The death was definitely done for shock value then.”

“Which is the stupidest reason to kill a character!” she snarled, and Lucien blinked rapidly, trying desperately not to let his amusement show. 

“I agree but I mostly read nonfiction, so this is an uncharted territory of investment for me.”

“Nonfiction?” Elain said with a blink then sniffled. “That seems so boring.”

Lucien’s ears heated. “Nonfiction books are the easiest way to educate yourself on things. There’s nothing boring about that.” he said defensively. “Funny enough, some would say gardening is boring and you’ve invested all your time in that.”

She narrowed her eyes at him, the look not really having the desired effect with the tear streaks on her face. “Don’t you go there.”

He held up his hands in mock surrender. “Those gardening books you have count as nonfiction, you know.” he said with a snort and she squinted at him. 

“Fair point, I guess.” she mumbled, and he watched as she glared at the book clenched tightly in her hands again. A moment of tense silence passed then Elain added, “I hate this thing. If I find the author, I will kill them.”

“I’d offer to burn it for you, but it seems the emotional damage has already been done.” he said, a small smile finding its way to his face as Elain continued to glare at the book. “May I ask, who suggested this series to you?”

And Elain glanced up, tear-stricken face furious. “Nesta.”

“Ah. So that’s who you planned to murder then?”

“Yes.”

And Lucien really couldn’t stop his smile from widening in amusement. “Might I also ask, how do you plan to do that?” he asked and her gaze snapped to his. “I’m only asking so when they question me, I have an alibi ready.”

Elain sniffled, wiping at her face but a ghost of a smile tugged on her own lips. “People underestimate gardening tools, but they hurt if you know where to strike.”

Lucien’s brow went up and then a quiet laugh slipped from his lips. “Unexpected answer but seemingly very you.”

Elain looked down at the book in her hand again. “And how do you know what I am or not?” she asked quietly.

“I’m very observant.” 

A heartbeat of silence passed between them before Elain finally said, “Too observant.”

Lucien only shrugged, his heart going at an erratic rhythm. Their conversation had gone on longer than he had anticipated, and he didn’t want to do anything to risk spooking her. It was a strange dance between them. He wasn’t sure what tone it would take next.

But Elain surprised him once more. She frowned then without warning, stepped out of her doorway and whirled the book with all her might down the hall. It landed with a soft thud on the other side of the house. 

Lucien blinked, eyeing how much closer she stood to him now. 

“I’ll grab it tomorrow. I can’t stand it being in my room.” she mumbled, crossing her arms. “I’m going to beat Nesta over the head with it in the morning.”

Lucien’s lip twitched again. “I would support that plan as it would be a better one than murdering your own sister.”

Elain snorted. “After letting me get invested for six books only to have the main love interest die in the end?” she said, her eyes flashing. “She’s lucky I won’t.”

Lucien gave her a teasing smile. “As terrible as it is to say this, I’d pay good money to see you whack Nesta with a book.”

“I know she’s faster and stronger than me, but I’ll at least get one hit in.” she said, determination in her eyes. “The element of surprise will help.” 

“I’ll cheer you on.” he said with a chuckle. “But also have Madja on call just in case.” 

Elain looked at him curiously, a small smile on her face. “That doesn’t sound incredibly supportive.”

“If you’d like the fight to be fair, you’d probably need to train just a little.”

“I don’t want to be a fighter.” she snapped immediately, and Lucien’s brows shot up.

“I know.” he said simply. “Basic self-defense doesn’t require you to become a warrior.”

She glanced at him and her lips went into a thin line. “We’ve barely spoken in two years. How could you know that I don’t want to be a fighter when both of my sisters are? Why would I be different?”

“Because you are not your sisters. And again, I’m observant.” he replied curtly, and the familiar contempt flared up. “The only reason we haven’t spoken much in two years is because you don’t want to. I’ve respected that decision.”

The fight in her vanished at his response and instead, Elain shot him a slightly annoyed look. She crossed her arms again and the two stood there, in awkward silence. After a moment, she spoke.

“So what, you’d be willing to teach me basic self-defense?” she asked and Lucien quirked a brow.

“If that’s what you want, I’d be happy to do that.” he replied, crossing his own arms. 

Elain assessed him and Lucien allowed it. It had been a long time since she’d stood before him and actually looked him in the eye. 

But Elain ended up shaking her head and Lucien watched her expression shut down. “They’d just laugh at me if I suggested it.”

Lucien’s expression softened. “No one will laugh at you. I’m sure they’d love for you to learn to defend yourself.” 

But Elain shook her head again and sighed. “I can’t win. I’m mocked for wanting a quiet life and then shut down if I try to take chances.” she said quietly. 

Lucien’s hands dropped to his sides and his fists clenched. “I will tell you this once so please listen,” he began, and Elain’s brows furrowed. “You don’t need anyone’s permission to make changes to your life. You get to decide that and then just do it.”

Elain glanced at him. “It doesn’t feel like it.”

“Well, what do you want, Elain?” he asked and watched as her eyelids fluttered shut for a moment when her name slipped from his lips. His fists clenched again at his sides.

“What do I want?” she repeated, eyes still closed.

“Other than your favorite fictional character to have survived the series?” he said and smiled softly as a small smile emerged on her face.

“I want —” she began, eyes still closed, expression focused. “I want so many things.” 

“Like what?” he asked softly, taking the time to memorize every inch of her face. 

“I want to train a little. I want to travel. I want — I want to get to know you without everyone’s involvement.” she said quickly. “I want my choices to matter in everything.”

His heart started racing and when Elain opened her eyes, the flush in her cheeks matched Lucien’s, who could only stare at her with a barely managed intensity. 

It took Lucien a few moments to find his voice again. “I’m not going to coddle you.” he said firmly. “If there is something you want to do, you can do it. You don't need my support to do anything but you will have it.”

Elain took a breath, her eyes scanning his face. “Good.”

“Great.” he agreed, and he couldn’t stop himself from asking, “Without everyone’s involvement huh?”

Elain flushed. “You’re a mystery to me and everyone has opinions. I’d like to form my own.” she said then quickly added. “With zero expectations between us. Whatever happens will happen.”

Lucien nodded slowly. “Whatever happens will happen.” he repeated then gave her a small smile. “As soon as you’re done mourning your loss, we can begin. My condolences by the way.”

With an eye roll, Elain huffed a small laugh. “Oh, shut up.” 

And Lucien smirked. “You’ll have to talk to me much more when we train, you are aware of that, yes?”

“Push your luck with your teasing, I dare you.” 

Lucien’s eyes gleamed at the challenge. “Don’t tempt me, I barely started.”

Elain fought back a smile then looked away from him with a sigh, curling a hair behind her ear, “For training,” she started, licking her lips. “Will...I need pants? Because I don’t have those.”

And every thought seemed to slip out of Lucien’s mind at the statement. The sheer innocence in it. The self-consciousness. She had no idea Lucien was barely holding on to his sanity as is. 

He swallowed. “I’m sure Feyre can help you buy some training pants.”

“No!” she said immediately then flushed at his expression. “I don’t want anyone asking questions.”

Lucien chuckled. “Buying pants is a very normal thing, Elain. You shouldn’t be this worried.”

She bit her lip and Lucien had to look anywhere else until she very quietly asked, “Will you go with me then?”

He blinked at her, then swallowed. “To — to buy pants?”

“You said we haven’t talked because I didn’t want to. I wasn’t ready.” she said and looked him in the eye. “I want to change that. Shopping allows some of the best conversations.”

He tilted his head, taking in the question and the challenge in her eyes. With a small smile, Lucien nodded. “Shopping it is.”

“Good. We can go tomorrow.”

“So demanding.”

“I’m making decisions.” she said with a firm nod, a small smile gracing her face.

“I can work with that.”

They watched each other for a few moments in silence before Elain finally looked away shyly again, making her way back to her bedroom door. “I’ll see you tomorrow then?”

“See you tomorrow.” he confirmed with a nod. “I’ll even grab the book that shall not be named and hang on to it for safekeeping for you.”

Elain laughed softly. “Thank you.” she said then added quietly, “And thank you for checking on me. Even when you didn’t have to.”

He waved her off with a good-natured smile. “I was only following my instincts. It brought me to the right place.”

It brought me to you, is what he wanted to say but held back. They balanced a delicate line and Lucien didn’t want to burden her. But the small smile on Elain’s face as she waved goodnight and gently closed her bedroom door gave him the impression she heard it anyway.

Feeling lighter than he had in quite some time, Lucien made his way back to his room, stopping only to pick up the now-cursed book and taking it back with him. Closing his bedroom door behind him and leaning against it, Lucien realized then, he only had a few hours to mentally prepare himself to see Elain in pants for the first time.

Gods above, he was barely going to survive it. 

#elucien #elucien fanfics #lucien vanserra #elain archeron #acotar fanfiction #I present to you: two idiots who don't know how to emotion around each other #Cue Lucien finally going back to Jurian and Vassa and just melting onto the couch #Lucien hoarsely: she wore pants for the first time #Jurian and Vassa: ????? #Lucien in a panic: PANTS. SHE TRIED ON SO MANY #Jurian just laughing himself to death. #Vassa trying to get him to tell what he said so can assess his flirting #fic: instincts #gfics

[moononastring]

Instincts [ Elucien ]

Prompt: A lovely anon sent me this: "Could I please request a fic based on elain reading a really sad book where 1 of the characters dies and she's absolutely torn up over it and Lucien sees her sobbing but he doesn't know what to do cause he doesn't get being invested in fictional characters (plss the irony has me ded) like she does, so he just sits with her and follows his mate bond instinct." So I took the idea and ran with it lol. Prompt requests are always a hit or miss for me depending on my writing energy and inspiration so I’m glad this one worked out!

This takes place post-ACOSF.

Lucien had been rooted to his spot in front of her bedroom door for about 10 minutes now.

10 minutes of him listening to her sobbing — sobbing. 

He had been invited to stay the night after visiting Feyre and baby Nyx. Exhausted and rather than make the trek back to Jurian and Vassa, Lucien stayed. He stayed knowing he was spending an evening with his mate avoiding him like the plague per usual. But it was alright. He tried not to hold it against her. He let her have her space.

When she excused herself after dinner, Lucien’s eyes followed her as she left the room but with a quiet sigh, he returned to his meal.

“You know she doesn’t actually dislike you, right?” Feyre said with a small wince. 

“I know.” Lucien replied, schooling his expression to not show his continuous disappointment. It needn’t be anyone else’s problem but his. “I’m pretty sure if she did, I wouldn’t be able to set foot in this house.”

“Now, now Lucien. You are a friend. You’re always welcome.” Rhys said then laughed when Lucien flipped him off.

“As mates, you both know exactly how well I can feel her emotions.” he said, his eyes on his plate. “I know she’s still going through things. So am I. We’ll eventually work through it.”

He didn’t bother to glance at Rhys or Feyre as he also excused himself. What Lucien didn’t add was even though they’re both working through it, consistently being around her without properly talking to her left him in a constant state of agony.

But he’d dealt with worse. It would be fine. He’d had his eye carved out. He could handle Elain not wanting to talk to him until she was ready.

It was as Lucien started settling in for the evening that he sensed her distress. He was in his own rooms, upstairs, and on the other side of the house when a surge of emotion washed over him. The book in his hand immediately closed and he was on his feet and out the door before Lucien could stop himself. 

The bond had yanked him here, rooting him in front of her room staring and wondering what in the devil was causing her to be this upset. 

His face suddenly fell. Was it him being here? She had never reacted this badly to him. If this was how she really felt, he would free her from the bond right here, right now. He would never want to be with someone who fucken sobbed at the idea of being with him. He deserved better than that. So did she.

He’d reject the bond and his own psychological wellbeing be damned if it freed them both from the misery he was apparently causing her.

But then —

“I’m going to kill her.” 

And Lucien straightened at the venomous tone and words very clearly not about him.

Her door suddenly flew open and a rage like he’d never seen before was found on Elain’s tear-stricken face. 

“I’m going to kill her.”  she repeated and it was as though she hadn’t seen Lucien at all until he cleared his throat.

“I’m unsure who it is you’re referring to, but I would probably rethink your murder plan.” he said gently. “It won’t do much for your soul.”

Finally seeming to realize who stood before her, Elain immediately straightened with a sniffle and wiped at her tears hastily. He watched her in slight amusement as she wrapped her robe further around herself and with a final sniff, looked at him with a stoic expression.

“What are you doing here?”

Lucien pursed his lips at the clipped tone. “I sensed your extreme distress and wanted to make sure you were alright.” he replied dryly. “Seeing as you’re planning a murder, I guess you’re fine.”

Elain scoffed. “Fine. Of course, I’m fine.” she choked out and Lucien raised a brow. “When am I ever not fine?”

Lucien blinked. Interesting. This development was interesting. She was actually talking to him in full sentences. And being snarky.

He gave her a once-over. “We both know you’re not fine. Which is why you avoid me so much because I know the depth of that.”

Elain’s face flushed and her lips went into a thin line. “There’s no need to bring that up.”

“Yes, of course.” he replied immediately, a humorless chuckle escaping him. “Because that would mean you’d have to talk to me, and Cauldron forbid that happen.” 

Elain blinked at him, surprise flashing across her face as her flush deepened. Lucien’s own face heated at what he’d said but shaking his head and taking a deep breath, he forced down his contempt. He had been two minutes away from rejecting the bond for her. He had to leave her before he said something else that was stupid. 

Turning away from her slightly, he waved a hand. “Since you’re alright, I’ll take my leave then.” he said quietly. “Apologies for disturbing you.”

Lucien slowly walked away, clenching and unclenching his fists to calm his heart. He had almost reached the end of the hall when her voice called out to him.

“Do you read?”

He froze then turned to her slightly. 

She was still standing in her doorway, a book now clenched tightly in her hands and looking at him like — Lucien swallowed. He wouldn’t read into her expression.

Turning, he slowly made his way back to her, his hands in his pockets and when he was one bedroom door away, he stopped to keep a healthy distance between them. 

“Yes, I do. I enjoy reading.” he answered. “Do you?”

Elain looked down at the book in her hands and frowned, her lips trembling slightly. “Nesta was always the reader. I enjoyed reading them here and there but…” she began and looked up at him. “Now that I seem to have forever to do things, I wanted to start reading more.”

The corner of his mouth ticked up. “Based on the emotional breakdown you were having, I would wager you didn’t enjoy that particular read.”

Elain watched him quietly and Lucien tried not to read into the whirlwind of emotions seeming to charge out of her, especially when her lips trembled again, and eyes started watering.

“He dies!” she blurted in a wheeze. “Six books! I've been reading this series for six books and after everything they’ve been through!  Everything that has happened! They’re barely happy for two chapters and then he dies!”

Lucien blinked as she started crying. Or rather, tried not to cry as she sniffled then sobbed. 

“Oh.” he said stupidly and as understanding washed over him, his lips twitched.

“What’s the point? What’s the point if they’re not happily together in the end?!” she continued, her rant clearly not over as she angrily wiped away tears still streaming. “I’ve been rooting for them for six books! His death has no meaning!”

“Was it an important character?” he asked and the fury in her eyes almost made him take a step back.

“He was one of the main characters and the main love interest!” she growled. “I have been waiting for them to have their happily ever after for six books!”

He prayed to whatever gods were listening that he didn’t laugh. 

“I see.” was all he could manage. “He was a favorite character of yours then?”

“He was the best.” she said with a small whine and quickly sniffled, glaring down at the book in question. “He was kind and loyal and he loved her so much! He was her perfect match.”

Lucien paused and the way she had said the words ‘perfect match’ erased his urge to laugh. Elain had clearly been committed to this fictional relationship. Should he...pat her on the back? It wasn’t like he could give her a hug. How does one mourn the loss of a fictional character?

“Well.” he finally said carefully. “The death was definitely done for shock value then.”

“Which is the stupidest reason to kill a character!” she snarled, and Lucien blinked rapidly, trying desperately not to let his amusement show. 

“I agree but I mostly read nonfiction, so this is an uncharted territory of investment for me.”

“Nonfiction?” Elain said with a blink then sniffled. “That seems so boring.”

Lucien’s ears heated. “Nonfiction books are the easiest way to educate yourself on things. There’s nothing boring about that.” he said defensively. “Funny enough, some would say gardening is boring and you’ve invested all your time in that.”

She narrowed her eyes at him, the look not really having the desired effect with the tear streaks on her face. “Don’t you go there.”

He held up his hands in mock surrender. “Those gardening books you have count as nonfiction, you know.” he said with a snort and she squinted at him. 

“Fair point, I guess.” she mumbled, and he watched as she glared at the book clenched tightly in her hands again. A moment of tense silence passed then Elain added, “I hate this thing. If I find the author, I will kill them.”

“I’d offer to burn it for you, but it seems the emotional damage has already been done.” he said, a small smile finding its way to his face as Elain continued to glare at the book. “May I ask, who suggested this series to you?”

And Elain glanced up, tear-stricken face furious. “Nesta.”

“Ah. So that’s who you planned to murder then?”

“Yes.”

And Lucien really couldn’t stop his smile widening in amusement. “Might I also ask, how do you plan to do that?” he asked and her gaze snapped to his. “I’m only asking so when they question me, I have an alibi ready.”

Elain sniffled, wiping at her face but a ghost of a smile tugged on her own lips. “People underestimate gardening tools, but they hurt if you know where to strike.”

Lucien’s brow went up and then a quiet laugh slipped from his lips. “Unexpected answer but seemingly very you.”

Elain looked down at the book in her hand again. “And how do you know what I am or not?” she asked quietly.

“I’m very observant.” 

A heartbeat of silence passed between them before Elain finally said, “Too observant.”

Lucien only shrugged, his heart going at an erratic rhythm. Their conversation had gone on longer than he had anticipated, and he didn’t want to do anything to risk spooking her. It was a strange dance between them. He wasn’t sure what tone it would take next.

But Elain surprised him once more. She frowned then without warning, stepped out of her doorway and whirled the book with all her might down the hall. It landed with a soft thud on the other side of the house. 

Lucien blinked, eyeing how much closer she stood to him now. 

“I’ll grab it tomorrow. I can’t stand it being in my room.” she mumbled, crossing her arms. “I’m going to beat Nesta over the head with it in the morning.”

Lucien’s lip twitched again. “I would support that plan as it would be a better one than murdering your own sister.”

Elain snorted. “After letting me get invested for six books only to have the main love interest die in the end?” she said, her eyes flashing. “She’s lucky I won’t.”

Lucien gave her a teasing smile. “As terrible as it is to say this, I’d pay good money to see you whack Nesta with a book.”

“I know she’s faster and stronger than me, but I’ll at least get one hit in.” she said, determination in her eyes. “The element of surprise will help.” 

“I’ll cheer you on.” he said with a chuckle. “But also have Madja on call just in case.” 

Elain looked at him curiously, a small smile on her face. “That doesn’t sound incredibly supportive.”

“If you’d like the fight to be fair, you’d probably need to train just a little.”

“I don’t want to be a fighter.” she snapped immediately, and Lucien’s brows shot up.

“I know.” he said simply. “Basic self-defense doesn’t require you to become a warrior.”

She glanced at him and her lips went into a thin line. “We’ve barely spoken in two years. How could you know that I don’t want to be a fighter when both of my sisters are? Why would I be different?”

“Because you are not your sisters. And again, I’m observant.” he replied curtly, and the familiar contempt flared up. “The only reason we haven’t spoken much in two years is because you don’t want to. I’ve respected that decision.”

The fight in her vanished at his response and instead, Elain shot him a slightly annoyed look. She crossed her arms again and the two stood there, in awkward silence. After a moment, she spoke.

“So what, you’d be willing to teach me basic self-defense?” she asked and Lucien quirked a brow.

“If that’s what you want, I’d be happy to do that.” he replied, crossing his own arms. 

Elain assessed him and Lucien allowed it. It had been a long time since she’d stood before him and actually looked him in the eye. 

But Elain ended up shaking her head and Lucien watched her expression shut down. “They’d just laugh at me if I suggested it.”

Lucien’s expression softened. “No one will laugh at you. I’m sure they’d love for you to learn to defend yourself.” 

But Elain shook her head again and sighed. “I can’t win. I’m mocked for wanting a quiet life and then shut down if I try to take chances.” she said quietly. 

Lucien’s hands dropped to his sides and his fists clenched. “I will tell you this once so please listen,” he began, and Elain’s brows furrowed. “You don’t need anyone’s permission to make changes to your life. You get to decide that and then just do it.”

Elain glanced at him. “It doesn’t feel like it.”

“Well, what do you want, Elain?” he asked and watched as her eyelids fluttered shut for a moment when her name slipped from his lips. His fists clenched again at his sides.

“What do I want?” she repeated, eyes still closed.

“Other than your favorite fictional character to have survived the series?” he said and smiled softly as a small smile emerged on her face.

“I want —” she began, eyes still closed, expression focused. “I want so many things.” 

“Like what?” he asked softly, taking the time to memorize every inch of her face. 

“I want to train a little. I want to travel. I want — I want to get to know you without everyone’s involvement.” she said quickly. “I want my choices to matter in everything.”

His heart started racing and when Elain opened her eyes, the flush in her cheeks matched Lucien’s, who could only stare at her with a barely managed intensity. 

It took Lucien a few moments to find his voice again. “I’m not going to coddle you.” he said firmly. “If there is something you want to do, you can do it. You don't need my support to do anything but you will have it.”

Elain took a breath, her eyes scanning his face. “Good.”

“Great.” he agreed, and he couldn’t stop himself from asking, “Without everyone’s involvement huh?”

Elain flushed. “You’re a mystery to me and everyone has opinions. I’d like to form my own.” she said then quickly added. “With zero expectations between us. Whatever happens will happen.”

Lucien nodded slowly. “Whatever happens will happen.” he repeated then gave her a small smile. “As soon as you’re done mourning your loss, we can begin. My condolences by the way.”

With an eye roll, Elain huffed a small laugh. “Oh, shut up.” 

And Lucien smirked. “You’ll have to talk to me much more when we train, you are aware of that, yes?”

“Push your luck with your teasing, I dare you.” 

Lucien’s eyes gleamed at the challenge. “Don’t tempt me, I barely started.”

Elain fought back a smile then looked away from him with a sigh, curling a hair behind her ear, “For training,” she started, licking her lips. “Will...I need pants? Because I don’t have those.”

And every thought seemed to slip out of Lucien’s mind at the statement. The sheer innocence in it. The self-consciousness. She had no idea Lucien was barely holding on to his sanity as is. 

He swallowed. “I’m sure Feyre can help you buy some training pants.”

“No!” she said immediately then flushed at his expression. “I don’t want anyone asking questions.”

Lucien chuckled. “Buying pants is a very normal thing, Elain. You shouldn’t be this worried.”

She bit her lip and Lucien had to look anywhere else until she very quietly asked, “Will you go with me then?”

He blinked at her, then swallowed. “To — to buy you pants?”

“You said we haven’t talked because I didn’t want to. I wasn’t ready.” she said and looked him in the eye. “I want to change that. Shopping allows some of the best conversations.”

He tilted his head, taking in the question and the challenge in her eyes. With a small smile, Lucien nodded. “Shopping it is.”

“Good. We can go tomorrow.”

“So demanding.”

“I’m making decisions.” she said with a firm nod, a small smile gracing her face.

“I can work with that.”

They watched each other for a few moments in silence before Elain finally looked away shyly again, making her way back to her bedroom door. “I’ll see you tomorrow then?”

“See you tomorrow.” he confirmed with a nod. “I’ll even grab the book that shall not be named and hang on to it for safekeeping for you.”

Elain laughed softly. “Thank you.” she said then added quietly, “And thank you for checking on me. Even when you didn’t have to.”

He waved her off with a good-natured smile. “I was only following my instincts. It brought me to the right place.”

It brought me to you, is what he wanted to say but held back. They balanced a delicate line and Lucien didn’t want to burden her. But the small smile on Elain’s face as she waved goodnight and gently closed her bedroom door gave him the impression she heard it anyway.

Feeling lighter than he had in quite some time, Lucien made his way back to his room, stopping only to pick up the now cursed book and taking it back with him. Closing his bedroom door behind him and leaning against it, Lucien realized then, he only had a few hours to mentally prepare himself to see Elain in pants for the first time.

Gods above, he was barely going to survive it. 

_______________________________________________________________

Tagging my elucien readers: @vanserrasvalkyrie​ | @chloepereyra​ | @helion-ism​ | @arielle-reads​ | @bananaaazinpyjamas​ | @twigoftrust​ 

#elucien #elain archeron #lucien vanserra #elucien fanfiction #elucien fanfics #acotar fanfiction #acotar #I present to you: two idiots who don't know how to emotion around each other #Cue Lucien finally going back to Jurian and Vassa and just melting onto the couch #Lucien hoarsely: she wore pants for the first time #Jurian and Vassa: ????? #Lucien in a panic: PANTS. SHE TRIED ON SO MANY #Jurian just laughing himself to death. #Vassa trying to get him to tell what he said so can assess his flirting #I know I said SMTB is coming soon and IT IS BUT I NEED MORE TIME #instincts #myfic

[pinkydevil]

You belong with us (Feyrhycien)

So, I posted this fic here in brazilian portuguese this week, and, as I promissed, I tried to translate to english to post it too.

Hope that it isn’t too bad and you can understand. If there is some mistake, please, correct me. so I can make it better for you. ;)

Hope you enjoy            

            The knock on the door made Feyre jump where she was. She had been so distracted by painting that she had not even heard anyone approaching. Wiping her hands on the light blouse she wore, she walked to the door and almost stopped when she saw the silhouette standing in front of her. As soon as he opened it he found Lucien smiling at her, his russet eye gleaming merrily at the sight of her.              Soon her arms were around the male’s neck, which smiled and squeezed tightly against him. This was the first time they’d seen each other after the war and the tumult that followed, and Feyre really missed her friend. When they separated from the embrace, she invited him in, and in the hallway the two of them began to talk about what they had done in the last few days, the little relief that the end of the war brought them.

            At some point, when the affair was over, Feyre paused to take a look at her friend, and felt her heart tighten a little at the sight of how downcast he looked. His face, despite the scar and the strange golden eye, was beautiful. Today, however, there were large dark circles under his eyes, as if he had not slept for days, and his skin was a little paler than usual, even his hair seemed to have lost some of its luster.              - Are you alright? – She asked quietly to him, who stared at her, as if surprised by the question, then nodded in response. When Feyre’s eyebrow rose in disbelief, Lucien laughed and added,              - I am fine. Honest. Just tired. These last weeks were not very easy. – He gave her a small smile, as if apologizing.

- How did it go with Tamlim? – She asked, her voice even more hesitant than before. And with that question, Lucien seemed to wither away as he sighed from his lips.              - Not very well. - admitted. – I do not think he’ll ever forgive me. – He said, his voice low, as if it were difficult to say that.              Guilt and pain for his friend tore Feyre’s heart. She was to blame for the expression of the male in front of her. She was the reason why Tamlim did not want Lucien around anymore. And even though she knew how bad The High Lord of the Spring Court had treated Lucien in the last few months and that was probably best for him the fact that he was away now, she also knew that Tamlin had been a close friend of his for a long time, and that rejection on his part would hurt. For the Cauldron, if only the small quarrel she had with Mor a few days ago had already hurt her, she did not even want to imagine how Lucien would be feeling at that moment.

            Still, even if he risked losing his friend, he had come back to her. Well, maybe not for her exactly, but for her court, for her house. Maybe it was because of Elain, his mate. Feyre ignored the tightness in her chest that came with that thought. What mattered was that Lucien was home now. And she could not ignore the pain the russet eye tried to hide.              - I’m sorry. – She whispered. Lucien just shook his head, as if to say there was nothing, and that he was fine, but Feyre saw the small tear that slipped from his eye.

Then she simply took a step forward, wrapping her arms around his neck and pressing her closer to him, who stopped for a moment, before holding her back and hiding his face in her neck, squeezing it as if he needed it to breathe just as she did.              They lay like this for several minutes, their bodies pressed together, feeling the warmth and comfort they offered. At least until Feyre sensed Lucien’s breathing at a specific point on her neck, which made her hair shiver every time his warm breath touched it.

            Slowly, her hands moved up his neck, until they were between his long hair, which curled around her fingers, and she began to stroke it there, drawing a sigh from the male, which made her squirm in his arms. Lucien’s hands, little by little, almost involuntarily, started down her body until it reached her hips, where he held tight, and pressed her against him, both panting slightly with the movement. Daring a little more, Lucien ran his nose through her thin neck, delighting in her feminine scent and, a little hesitant, left a delicate kiss on the spot, causing her to tighten his hair a little.

            As if stimulated by her movement, Lucien’s hands tightened slightly as he kissed the spot again, and again, before running his tongue lightly around the place, making the female in his arms shake a little. He repeated the movement then, a little firmer this time, scraping his teeth on the skin then drawing a loud sigh from her. With that, Lucien’s hands went to the back of her neck, gripping her hair and carefully pulling her back to face him while his other hand remained firmly on her hip. He stared at the blue-gray eyes, which were blurred with desire, staring at him so intensely that he made every hair of his body shiver. With that, he thought of nothing else, erased any reason why he should not do that, any trace of reason, and just pressed his lips to hers.

            The first kiss was calm. A simple touch of lips. Soon after, a kiss a little longer, their mouths meeting slowly. And then, Lucien’s tongue passed her lips, begging for passage, which she soon relented. When the tongues met, a groan came from the bottom of their throats as they just let themselves be carried away by the moment.              When the air was gone, the two drew away, panting, their foreheads joined, breaths pounding against each other’s faces.              - Feyre. – Lucien whispered. – Feyre. Feyre. What are we doing? – His voice was hoarse, low, not as if sharing a secret, but as if he could not speak louder than that.

– That’s an excellent question, little Lucien.

             The voice that made him quickly move away from her, came from the end of the hall, more specifically at the top of the stairs, where Rhysand watched them in the shadows. Hands in pockets as he stared at them. Around him, his power circulated, as if he were losing control of it.

            Slowly, as if in no hurry, the High Lord of the Night Court descended the stairs, walking toward them. Lucien took a step back, wanting to keep a safe distance from the male in front of him.

Rhys stopped the moment he reached Feyre, who was now looking at him, both turned sideways to Lucien. From the expressions on their faces, Lucien realized they were talking in their minds. And, unless Lucien had gone completely insane, Rhys seemed to try to hold a smile as he looked at his partner. Then he just slid a hand around her waist, teasing her, and turned her back to him, sticking his chest against her. His hands caressed her belly lazily, rising slowly up her stomach, until he reached her chest, where one of the hands stopped. The other hand continued to rise, past her full breasts, sliding down her shoulders and neck until they settled on her chin, which he held firmly, but lovingly, pulling her face to himself and crushing her lips against his in a kiss that was not nothing if not erotic. Rhysand’s left hand quickly gripped one breast, holding one of her nipples pushing against the fabric of her blouse between his fingers, teasing her, and pulling it lightly.             Lucien could not take his eyes off them when Feyre broke the kiss, letting out a loud moan as she threw her head against his shoulder. Rhys grinned mischievously at his partner and began to kiss the white neck that stretched out in front of him. Then his eyes met Lucien’s, the violet almost wholly swallowed by black, the size of the longing he felt. It made the redhead shiver again and Rhys smiled at that, running his tongue lingeringly over her skin, his eyes still locked on the male. Feyre also opened her eyes, staring at Lucien as intensely as Rhysand did.

Then, at the same time, Rhysand’s right hand and Feyre’s left extended to Lucien. The redhead’s body tensed for a moment as he watched their outstretched hands as an invitation to him. That could not be serious. It could only be some kind of joke with him. He did not want to risk accepting the offered hands and getting killed for wanting and touching another male’s mate. Or, he admitted to himself, the mate of a female who could kill him in seconds if she wanted to.             But then Feyre took a step forward, and then another, until he was almost touching him. Her delicate hands moved slowly up his chest, gasping for her closeness and his desire. Soon her hands were back in his hair, pulling him to her and taking his lips in a kiss.             Lucien tried to resist, but then her hands came back to his chest, scratching lightly there, ripping out a growl from him, which made him gave up any control he was trying to hold and grabbed her waist, attacking her mouth with hunger. Tongues danced erotically as his hands explored her back and waist, almost desperate. Then Rhysand’s hands were there too, past his, toward Feyre, sliding down her exposed belly and her breasts beneath her blouse. Feyre groaned in Lucien’s mouth, which delighted in that sound.

Soon her mouth left him, finding Rhys’s, tongues curling and caressing with lust. Lucien’s mouth found Feyre’s neck, his tongue trailing the sweet skin with which he had so much dreamed. He felt Rhys’ hands grazing his chest and belly as he explored the female among them, as his fingers grazed the muscular chest of the High Lord.             Feyre moaned loudly when Rhysand also dropped his mouth and went to her neck, on the side opposite to what Lucien was. Having those two handsome males around her, giving her pleasure, was so much more than she even dared imagine, but she liked it. Maybe too much. They both nibbled, licked, and sucked on whatever spot they found there, as they pressed against her, leaving her completely trapped between them, rubbing their bodies against her, suggesting what was to come.                She thought nothing in the world could be more sensual than that. At least until Rhys finally lifted the head from her neck, one of his hands coming out of her breasts to find the back of Lucien’s neck, gripping his long hair and pulling him back. The two of them stared at each other for a moment, before advancing into each other’s mouths. Feyre moaned at the scene and rubbed herself harder against the stiff parts of the two, who moaned, still without breaking the kiss, pressing against it.

               One of Rhysand’s hands wandered over Feyre’s belly, caressing softly, while his other hand wandered over Lucien’s body, past his chest, waist and down, until he reached the redhead’s butt, where he tightened, making him rub with more force against the female, which caused a malicious smile to open on the lips of the male who stretched out his hand that was not on Feyre’s waist to tighten the front of Rhys’s pants, who threw his head back, groaning loudly as Lucien stroked his spread over his clothes. Both grunted, the sound making Feyre tremble against them.             - Rhys. Luc. Please. – She asked quietly in a gasping voice and could hear the two of them smile between the kisses they exchanged.             - I think our female needs a little more attention. – Rhys laughed, turning away Lucien’s mouth. Lucien only smiled.             Feyre moaned loudly as their hands began to work on her and into each other. She could do nothing but hold the nape of both males as their lips and tongues explored the skin of her shoulders. The short blouse she wore had been discarded at some point and the two of them were amusing themselves by passing their mouths over the new exposed parts of her body. They both took their hands off her and turned her quickly. Now she was facing Rhys, sucking on her breasts, alternating from one to the other, teasing her with slow, soft strokes, always avoiding the small nipple that begged for attention, which left her groaning in agony. Lucien now had his lips in the middle of her back, lowering down, his hand wiping her dangerously close to where she needed attention, but he just avoided the place while stroking the inside of her thighs.

- Please. Please. – She just repeated the words as they both laughed and enjoyed teasing her. By the time their eyes met and they nodded.             Then Rhys’s lips and teeth circled one of the erect nipples, pulling and squeezing it with his tongue, at the same time that two fingers of Lucien finally reached the wet spot between her legs, penetrating her hard. She just screamed and had her climax right there, which made them both laugh again.             Before she could recover, Rhys carried the two of them into the bedroom, placing her on the bed carefully. Soon her mate’s attention returned to her breasts, while Lucien proceeded to kiss her thighs, caressing them steadily, rising gradually. Feyre grabbed Rhysand’s hair and pulled him to kiss her as Lucien’s hot tongue found its pleasure, causing her to scream in Rhys’s mouth, which made him snarl in response. She placed one hand across the body of the High Lord, until she found his hard cock, holding it tight and caressing it slowly.

Rhys gasped as he moved closer to her with his body, allowing her mouth to find that sensitive part. She sucked with the same strength and will that Lucien wore in her caresses against her, which made Rhys go crazy in a few minutes. The redhead then stepped away from her a little, staring at the couple, as if asking permission for what he was about to do. Two pair of eyes shone as Rhysand nodded slowly and Lucien knelt between Feyre’s legs, entering in her body slowly, sighing heavily with the wonderful feeling of being inside her.             Feyre moaned, her mouth still around Rhys, who shuddered at the sensation. As soon as he was fully inside her, Lucien withdrew slowly, then forced himself in, causing a scream to escape from her, and consequently from her mate, who was already rolling his eyes out of pleasure, his hands clasped in her hair, stroking them gently, pushing against her, begging silently not to stop.             And she did not stop. Not while Lucien was still moving inside her, faster and harder, his mouth all the time clinging to her, her breasts, her neck, her ear, and his fingers caressing that particular spot that made her shiver ever more. Though all the pleasure she felt and almost maddened him, Feyre’s mouth remained firm in her mate’s penis, caressing it with her tongue and hands, delighting in his taste and the sound of his moans.             The moment she lost control of herself was when Lucien suddenly pulled Rhys’s head in his direction, kissing him fervently, tongues caressing so erotically, as they continued to move against her. That was enough for a powerful orgasm to take hold of her, making her body arch as she moaned against Rhysand’s cock in her mouth, who also did not take long to dye its apex, spilling into it, which she swallowed to the last drop, before Rhys stepped away from her, the moment Lucien enjoyed himself, pushing himself even harder inside her, pulling out another cry of pleasure.             The three threw themselves into bed, tired and gasping, each of the two males on one side of Feyre, both facing her.             - I really did not expect that. – Lucien admitted, still a little surprised. Rhys laughed.             - Oh, but we waited. Even we were almost tired of waiting, little Lucien. – He purred, making the other two shiver.             - And you’d better get used to it. We sure will want to repeat that. – Feyre said, softly as Rhys’s hand caressed her belly lightly.                - Do you really want me to stay here among you? – The redhead could not stop an eyebrow from rising, as if even he doubted what he was saying.             - Oh, we’re sure. – Rhys said, with the same low voice and a mischievous grin. – You belong to us now, Lucien.             - And we will not let you go so easy. – Feyre added sleepily.             Lucien thought of asking something else, or protesting, but for what? That was good, and he did not see anything bad coming from that feeling, so why would he fight it? For the first time in a long time, Lucien really felt good, dear.             - Now, rest, both of you. – Rhys whispered again as Feyre snuggled into the redhead’s chest. – You have half an hour. – he added and laughed as they both shivered at his warning.             And then he moved a little closer to the two before two wings appeared, covering the three bodies there, shielding them and leaving them to deal with this new feeling that took care of each one of them.

#acotar #acowar #acomaf #a court of mist and fury #a court of thorns and roses #a court of wings and ruin #tamlim #rhysand #feyrhycien #rhys #rhys x feyre #lucien #lucien deserves more love #lucien x feyre #lucien x rhys #lucien vanserra #feyre archeron #feyre #feyrhys #feysand #feycien #elucien #mor #rhycien #fanfic #my writing #sarah j maas #sjm #acotar fanfiction #acotar fanfic

[wingsofanillyrian]

The Dance: Chapter 2

Summary:  Everyone knows the High Lord of the Night Court is a monster. Not that Rhysand has ever cared what the other Fae of Prythian think, but when he meets Feyre, Tamlin’s betrothed, he realizes everything is about to change.

Chapter Masterlist

Before anyone asks, YES I do plan on continuing this!!

Gasping, I landed at the foothills of the mountains and fell to my knees. I hadn’t even known where I wanted to go, my only thought was getting away from Mor and Cassian and Azriel and their prying gazes. The club had been too small of a space, the walls closing in and Mor had wanted to comfort me, as if she’d known what happened. Had Tamlin felt it too? Oh Gods, what if he hurt her because of it?

Snapping my eyes shut, I forced myself to take a deep breath and retract the claws that had sprung out. No, I knew Tamlin- at least I had at one time. He wouldn’t hurt Feyre, she was the closest thing he had to a mate. After a few moments, I opened my eyes and took in my surroundings, a tiny portion of the tension in my shoulders eased as I recognized them.

I had winnowed to the cabin.

I walked, rather than flew, the mile from the snowy steppes to the quaint log cabin, where white smoke was already pouring from the chimney. No doubt a fire was burning in the hearth, summoned by the need to dry my cold, wet clothes.  My skin prickled when I passed through the wards that guarded the area and I stumbled to the threshold.

I’d bring Feyre here, I thought, and immediately regretted it. The pang of longing for my mate hit like an arrow to the chest, causing each breath to come in a rasping pant. The physical ache of knowing I would never have her, of knowing another male warmed her bed. Falling to my knees, I tried pushing back against the rising tide inside me, fingers clawing at my chest as if to rip out my heart.

I’d never felt so lost and hurt in my entire life.

After what could have been hours, my breathing steadied to somewhat normal levels, and I leaned forward to rest my head against the cool wood floor. I couldn’t go back to Velaris, not like this. The ache in my soul would render me useless.

The cabin would be my home until I learned to live with the pain.

***************

I stared at the report in my hands, reading but not absorbing the words. The giant stack of papers had appeared this morning at the kitchen table, a note from Mor sitting atop the pile like a crown.

I’ll be visiting you in the afternoon.

Please wear pants.

Her crude attempt at humor did nothing to comfort me.

I threw the pages down and sighed, leaning back and pinching the bridge of my nose. I couldn’t get anything done. All I could think about was Feyre; she’d absorbed my mind wholly and completely.

The scene kept replaying over and over in my head: Tamlin’s hands on her body, the look of disgust on her face when Mor told her what he’d done, the warmth of her hand in mine, and finally the terror she unknowingly blasted down that bond when she ran from me.

Her terror was justified, I suppose. Certainly, Tamlin had nothing nice to say about me and the ruthlessness of the Court of Nightmares was common knowledge. Few knew the truth behind that façade: the Court of Dreams. The one thing that I managed to do right in this life was keep Velaris alive and thriving, hidden from the rest of the world.

But of course, Feyre didn’t know that side of me. Hell, she barely knew me at all, besides what Tamlin might have told her. I didn’t know anything about her either, not her last name or even what she enjoyed doing.

The only thing I knew for certain was that she was my mate, and I had blown my only chance to woo her.

A tentative knock broke my self-loathing. “Come in,” I croaked, voice hoarse from weeks of disuse. A head of blonde hair poked around the door, and I sighed again. This wouldn’t be a fun conversation.

“What is it, Mor?”

She stepped into the tiny cabin, clicking the door shut behind her. “Just wanted to see how you were doing.” Tucking her hair back, she sank into the chair opposite me. “Cass and Az are concerned. Amren is too, though she won’t admit it.”

“I’m fine,” I said, forcing a smile to my face. “Why wouldn’t I be?” Mor’s brow furrowed and she worried her bottom lip with her teeth. I braced myself for what she would undoubtedly say, averting my eyes to the ground.

“You’ve been gone for weeks, Rhys. You’ve never been away from Velaris nor neglected your duties for so long.” She toyed with the hem of her dress, reminding me of the way Feyre had nervously tugged at her dress when we met. I went rigid at the memory, looking away to pin my gaze over Mor’s shoulder.

“We all felt it snap into place,” she said, speaking softly as if not to further upset me. “Rhys, we’re here for you-“

“I don’t know what you’re talking about.” I picked up a random stack of papers, studying them intently. “I have a lot of work to do.”

“Rhysand.” I ignored the command that laced the word, frowning as if the report concerned me. Mor growled, the sound bubbling out of her chest as she slammed a hand on the table.

“Damn it, Rhys! You aren’t okay.” Her eyes were wild, searching my face when I finally looked up. “Feyre is your mate, and she’s with someone else. Don’t you care at all?”

“Of course I fucking care!” I spat, rising from my chair. “She’s malnourished. She’s with Tamlin- living with him. Even after you showed her how much of a fucking prick he is, she still ran back to him, even though she’s terrified of him. And she’s scared of me too.” Hot tears built behind my eyes, and I clenched my hands into fists.

For two weeks I had shoved that interaction down, determined to forget about it. Feyre didn’t know we were mated by the Cauldron, and she never needed to. I had given her a chance to come with me, but she had chosen the High Lord of Spring. And why shouldn’t she? I’d done so many horrible things in my life, maybe meeting her only to lose her minutes after was punishment for those things.  I scrubbed a hand over my face as those pent-up emotions threatened to spill over.

“Rhys,” Mor whispered, moving around the desk and placing her hands on my arms. “She doesn’t know the real you. She only knows the mask. You just have to find a way to show her who you truly are.”

I laughed harshly and stepped back. “And how the hell do you suppose I do that?”

Morrigan squared her shoulders and lifted her chin, staring me down. “You go back to that club and you prove to her that you aren’t the High Lord of Nightmares, but of Dreams.”

“She won’t trust me.” My voice was barely more than a whisper. “She’s terrified of me.”

“Show her Velaris.” Mor said unflinchingly, and I looked at her, utterly shocked.

“I can’t! What if she runs back to Tamlin and tells him? Then everything I have worked so hard to protect would be in danger.”

Mor shrugged. “I guess you’ll just have to trust her.”

***************

The nightclub was just as I had remembered, with the hot press of slick bodies on all sides and the salty scent of sweat coating the air. I clung to the shadows to the side of the dancefloor, blending in well enough in a black button-down shirt, sleeves rolled to the elbows. I stuck out like a sore thumb being here by myself and wearing so much clothing. Observing the other Fae on the dancefloor had me undoing the first few buttons of my shirt, revealing the tattooed chest that sent males and females alike swooning at the sight.

It had been two hours since I arrived, and I had accomplished nothing. I waved off the few stray admirers that had dared approach me, and was damn near ready to give up when she walked in.

I waited for Tamlin to show his ugly mug, but it seemed she was instead escorted by the russet haired Fae with the golden eye- Lucien, if memory served. Not a very effective body guard either- his attention was immediately locked on the first female he saw, leaving Feyre to wander to the bar on her own.

“Just one tonight, sweetheart?” The barkeep drawled, eyes sweeping over her body. I couldn’t blame him, the form-fitting black dress she wore worked wonders for what little curves she did have. She smiled meekly at the grubby male and nodded, and I pushed off the wall and slid onto the stool next to her.

He returned with the drink, and I passed him two silver coins. “I’ve got this one,” I drawled, sensing Feyre’s curious stare. To her credit, it only took her a few moments to discern who I was.

“Rhysand?”

The corner of my mouth twitched upward and I ran a hand through my hair as I turned to face her fully.

“In the flesh and blood,” I purred, meeting her eyes of dull blue-grey. There was no spark in them, although I somehow knew that they once had been filled with passion and fight.

“What are you doing here?” Her gaze flitted around the bar, scanning for any of Tamlin’s minions. It snagged on Lucien, who was completely unaware of my presence, too wrapped up in some pretty female. Feyre curled her shoulders inward, whispering angrily, “I know who you are, and if Lucien sees you-“

“I know,” I said, instinctively dropping my voice to match hers. “But I had to see you again- to know you were okay.” Her brow furrowed and she studied me with a calculating gaze. There- that was a remnant of the spark I knew resided within her, her assessing gaze raking against my defenses.

“Why does it matter to you?”

I didn’t want to lie, not to her. I settled for the vague truth. “Because I care about you.”

“But you’re the High Lord of the Night Court,” she blurted, then clapped her hand to her mouth. “I’m sorry I didn’t mean to call you out!”

Shaking my head, I said, “No one else can hear us. I’ve put up a wall between them and us, precisely for that reason.” My eyes were drawn to her lip, which she had bitten nervously. Gods, such full, pink lips. What I wouldn’t give to kiss them all night long, to feel them on my neck, chest, and-

“Rhysand?” My gaze flicked back up to her eyes, noting the slight rose tint of the blush on her cheeks. I quirked a brow in silent question.

“Why do you care about me? I’m only another Spring Court Fae, and Tamlin’s betrothed to boot.” She said it with such malice that I knew she wasn’t with him for love, but for some other deeper, hidden reason.

I swirled the amber liquid in my glass, contemplating how to respond. I didn’t want to endanger her by telling her we were mates. Tamlin’s temper was a thing of legend, and I had seen him pissed off enough that I knew I didn’t want Feyre to endure that kind of rage.

Mor’s words echoed in my mind. Prove to her you aren’t the High Lord of Nightmares, but of Dreams.

“I’m not as horrible of a person as everyone leads you to believe,” I murmured, swiveling to face her. “My Court of Nightmares? It’s only a front. A mask to hide the true gems of my Court, one city in particular.” I reached for her hand, and to my delight she didn’t pull away. Her skin was cool and rough, possessing none of the warmth I had been expecting to find.

“I’d like to show you, if you would allow it.” I could see the wheels turning in her head as she weighed her options. My heart pounded in my chest, and although I desperately wanted her to say yes, I also knew that by showing Feyre my secret, I would be betraying my city.

The hair on the back of my neck stood up as the atmosphere in the room shifted in the space of a blink. The gathered Fae murmured anxiously as someone cut a path through the center of the dance floor. Something was wrong- whoever it was wasn’t well liked by the crowd.

A single name surfaced in my mind as I caught a glimpse of blond hair: Tamlin. Urgency flooded my system, causing me to squeeze Feyre’s hand in hopes of speeding her decision.

“There’s not much time,” I said, double checking my glamor and the shield of air surrounding us. High Lords could recognize glamors, however, and Tamlin was nearing the bar where we sat. My violet eyes beseeched her as I studied her face.

“I promise you, Feyre, that I am not a monster. I want nothing more than to prove that to you. Please let me show you Velaris.”

She fidgeted in her seat, frowning at our clasped hands. It seemed like an eternity before she nodded slowly. “I think I would like that.”

“Great, we can go now!” I squeezed her hand, the glare of the lights on Tamlin’s mask near blinding as he drew nearer. I prepared to winnow us, the edges of my vision turning black when an arm latched around my neck. The tip of a dagger dug into my side, effectively pinning me in place. Feyre’s hand slipping from my grasp as Tamlin stauntered up.

“Well well, what have we here?” He cocked his head to the side, a predatory grin on his face as he circled me. “High Lord of Night’s come to play, eh?”

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