Gillow didn’t respond immediately, his expression unreadable as he carried her back toward their bedroom. When they reached the threshold, he nudged the door open with his foot and stepped inside. The air was heavy with tension, and her heart pounded in her chest. Gently, he laid her down on the bed, tucking a stray strand of hair behind her ear. She had loosened her braids and washed her hair. It smelled good. Arda felt his touch. It was unexpectedly tender, his movements uncharacteristically calm. She stared up at him, unsure whether to feel relieved or more alarmed. “I felt like putting you to bed,” he said quietly, his voice soft but weighted with something she couldn’t quite place. Before she could respond, he leaned down, pressing a light kiss to her cheek. His lips were warm,

