“Just finishing up.” I leaned back into his touch. “The new stations are working beautifully. Look at this pattern. We’re getting data I never dreamed possible.”
He kissed the top of my head. “I’m glad. But I come bearing news that might distract you from your beloved charts.”
“Oh?” I set down my pencil and turned to face him. He looked particularly handsome today in a simple blue tunic and trousers, his auburn hair slightly disheveled. My practical heart still skipped when he smiled at me like that.
“Word from both Silvervale and Goldwing. The babies are thriving. No more coughing, and no sneezing. The families wanted us to know their little ones are healthy.”
Joy flooded through me. “That’s wonderful. I was so worried we wouldn’t figure it out in time.”
“But you did.” His gaze held so much pride it made my chest ache. “Their courts are healthier because of your brilliant mind.”
I started to protest, but he silenced me with a kiss that made every thought fly from my mind. When we finally pulled apart, I was breathless.
“There’s more,” he said, reaching into his pocket and pulling out a letter. “Mortiven and Trevare have decided to marry.”
“Really?” I breathed.
“I noticed they almost appeared to be communicating silently at the Summit.”
“And you didn’t say anything.”
He shrugged. “I waited to see if I was mistaken, but it seems I was not. They’re fated mates.”
“I’m so happy for them.” I hoped we’d be invited to their wedding.
“This also arrived not long ago, from your grandmother.” He held out an envelope. “A messenger sprite brought it.”
I recognized the cream parchment sealed with Grandmother’s crest. Taking it, I broke the wax and unfolded it, scanning the elegant script.
My dearest Adele,
I know this letter will find you well and happy in your new home. My pot never lies.
Things here at Thornwick Manor proceed as always, though we miss you terribly. The library still bears a slight frost from the last time you were there. Such a fond reminder of your wonderful weather magic.
I’m writing with happy news. Sasha has agreed to wed the Fae King. The ceremony is planned for one month from today, and I do hope you and Raoul can attend. It would mean so much to have family present for this momentous occasion.
All my love,
Grandmother
I looked up from the letter to find Raoul watching me with amusement. “Sasha’s getting married to the Fae King?”
“Apparently so.” He leaned against my workstation, crossing his arms on his chest. “Should I be concerned that you look shocked?”
“You don’t understand.” I set the letter down carefully, as if it might explode. “Sasha is… Well, she’s rules and order personified. Everything in its place, every action planned three steps ahead. And the Fae King…” I shook my head.
“What about him?”
“From what I’ve heard, he’s completely decadent. Wild. Frivolous. His court is all revelry and chaos and absolutely no attention to proper behavior.” I tried to imagine my stern, structured sister navigating that world. “How will she survive?”
Raoul’s lips twitched. “Maybe the Fae King will show her a new way of living.”
“Or maybe she’ll teach him some discipline,” I said, considering it. My grin rose. “Either way, sparks are definitely going to fly.”
“Like with someone else I know?” Stepping over in front of me, he settled his hands on my hips. “Say, a certain weather witch who showed up late to her own wedding.”
“That was different.” I looped my arms around his neck. “I was distracted by important research.”
