Page 143 of A Reign of Chromes & Shadows

Mid-air.

Dangling above a drop.

He’d kissed him like he wanted him; like he needed him.

So why…

Why had he walked away?

“Did you find it okay?”

Rain startled, slamming the fridge door shut. Henry stood in the doorway, concern radiating from him like warmth.

“Yes,” Rain said quickly. “Sorry. Lost in thought.”

He set the plate down too hard, the ceramic clattering loudly. Henry didn’t comment. He simply took the dish, uncovered it, and slid it into the oven.

“No problems today,” Henry said as he worked. “Everyone’s in good spirits. They all slept while you were gone. The little ones built a fort; they’re asleep in it now.”

Rain smiled faintly.

He’d check on them later.

“And Snow,” Henry continued, “she gets things done. Clothing arrived within hours. She helped each of them wash up, asked what they needed. You’re both very good with them.”

The oven beeped and Henry handed Rain the steaming plate.

“Thanks,” Rain murmured. “That’s her talent. If you need anything, she’ll make it happen.”

Henry leaned against the counter, studying him.

“It’s wonderful to see,” he said. “I can see why my cousin rates you so highly. There’s something different about you both.”

Rain sat on a bar stool, forcing himself to eat despite the knot in his stomach.

“Different how?” he asked around a mouthful of pasta.

Henry rubbed his stubbled chin in contemplation.

“It’s more of a feeling,” he said. “You both feel like… more than. Or other. I’m not explaining it well.”

He tried again.

“When I was your age, I travelled between kingdoms. Balls, banquets all of that political nonsense. I’ve been in rooms with kings; including your parents. None of them felt the way you do. You feel like a true leader. And you carry yourself like one.”

At that exact moment, a glob of pasta sauce slid off Rain’s fork and splattered onto his shirt.

Henry snorted.

Rain stared down at the stain, then let out a breath that was half-laugh, half-defeat.

Of course.

Even destiny had a sense of humour.

“Yes, clearly,” Rain chuckled, and Henry laughed with him, tossing him a dish cloth.

“I’m being serious,” Henry said, leaning his elbows on the counter. “Your energy commands loyalty and respect. Yet you don’t demand it. You don’t feel entitled to it.”