Page 137 of Hunger & Harmony

I already know my parents will be alarmed. I’m ready to give them time to adjust, as I need my own to forgive them. While I don’t hold a grudge against them, or even Viola, I have to look forward. It’s not just Niko and I. It’s our loved ones, our responsibilities, our kingdom.

“There’s no one else I’d rather do this with,” he says, bringing my hand to his lips.

As he places a kiss on the top, I laugh softly.

“Will there be a coronation or . . .?”

“There are rituals involved, yes. And you are a queen worthy of celebrations and ceremony,” he says.

The blush that settles onto my cheeks is different. Not as warm, but just as effective.

After one last kiss on my hand, he then pulls me into his embrace. More laughter bubbles up my throat as I snuggle him.

“When you’re ready, we’ll return to everyone.”

I hum against his chest.

“Together?”

He chuckles into my hair.

“Together.”

I’ve never had the strength to withstand a vampire’s full attack before. My eyes widen when I realize I’m still standing, and Ezren is clinging to me like a koala.

“Cadence!”

His wails echo through the throne room. Behind him, Selene and Cass exchange an amused look. It’s a relief to see her fully healed, standing next to her lover proudly. Ryel scowls at the back of Ezren’s head as his cries continue.

“It’s been so long! Lifetimes have passed!”

“It’s been three days,” Cass corrects him, but Ezren keeps sniffling.

As I pat his back, I glance around. It’s only the six of us. The facade has faded, and Sancte Noctis isn’t torn between shadow and light anymore. Only echoes of my effect remain, like the candles on the lined path glowing amber. Our elevated thrones are restored, proudly gleaming onyx side-by-side.

I can appreciate what I once thought was gloomy. Sancte Noctis is beautiful, and now a place I’ll call mine.

“Wait.”

Ezren pulls back, his hands clasping my shoulders. When he gets right in my face, his jaw hits the floor.

“Your eyes! They’re . . .They’re . . .!”

“Resonant,” Cass says from behind him.

Ezren whips around before he gawks at me again.

“They’re gold. I’ve never seen that before!”

“It exists in certain High Fae,” Selene says before she bows to me. “And now, our Queen.”

A gasp rips from Ezren before he lets me go and bows, too. Cass joins him, and even Ryel lowers his head. I glance back at Niko nervously, my hands raising in a panic.

“H-Hey, no need!”

“You are their Queen,” Niko says, gently lowering my hands. “You’ve earned their respect. Mine, as well.”

He places chaste kisses on my knuckles. Flustered, I shrug.