“I think she’s gone,” I whispered, pressing a hand to my chest.
“Not truly,” Kieran said. “She’s moved on. There’s a difference.”
He was right. This didn’t feel like loss. It felt like completion. As if Cordelia had finished what she’d stayed to do and could finally rest, knowing her family was safe.
I touched the portrait’s frame. “Thank you, Great-Grandmother.”
The light throbbed once, warm as a hug, then settled into a steady glow.
Kieran drew me away, leading me back through the transformed castle until we reached our chambers again. “I have something for you.”
“More gifts? You already gave me a kingdom.”
“This is better.” He disappeared into our sitting room, returning with a tray laden with food.
My stomach growled at the sight of fresh pastries, fruit, cheese, and what looked like eggs prepared just the way I liked them.
“When did you find time to make that?” I stared at him.
“Oh, sometime before you woke. I cast a spell to keep everything warm.” He set the tray on the small table by the window, the one that now caught actual sunlight for the first time since I’d arrived. “My mother taught me to cook.”
I settled into one of the chairs, watching as he poured tea for us both. “I owe her thanks, then.”
“She enjoyed food and loved experimenting with new dishes.” He handed me a cup, his fingers brushing mine. “She would’ve liked you.”
“Because I argue with you?”
“Because you challenge me to be better.” He claimed the chair across from me, though in the shade. But the look in his eyes warmed me more than the sun. “And because you make the best joy charms I’ve ever seen.”
I bit into a pastry. Perfectly flaky, with just the right amount of sweetness. “This is delicious. Amazing as always.” I reached across the table to lace my fingers with his. “I am curious about what other hidden talents you’re hiding.”
His smile turned wicked. “I could show you later.”
Heat bloomed in my cheeks, but before I could respond, Quandary swooped through the open window, nearly knocking over the teapot.
Letter,he said, dropping a cream-colored envelope into my lap before perching on the back of my chair.From your grandmother.
The wax seal held the Thornwick family crest.
“What does she say?” Kieran asked.
I broke the seal and unfolded the thick parchment, reading aloud.
My dearest Cyrene,
I trust this letter finds you well and properly settled in your new kingdom. The reports from various sources (and yes, I have sources. Never doubt a grandmother’s network) suggest you’ve not only survived but thrived. Well done.
However, I write with news of a more delicate nature. Your success has caused wonderful ripples. Our wards… Well, I won’t go into that now.
The point is, it’s time I thought of your sisters and cousin.
You’ll soon hear news about a wedding. I do hope you can attend. Bring your husband. I’d love to chat with him about blood magic.
With love and pride,
Grandmother
Kieran listened with growing amusement. “She’s at it again, isn’t she? I wonder who she has in mind for your sisters.”
