SKYE'S POV
The music wrapped around us like living fire.
Warm lantern light painted the courtyard in gold and amber as Eryx drew me into the center of the square. Around us, the people of Nighthaven clapped in rhythm, their laughter and cheers rising into the summer night. The scent of roasted meat, honey cakes, and pine smoke drifted through the air, mingling with the sweet perfume of wildflowers woven into the festival garlands.
For a moment, I forgot I was queen.
I forgot the weight of treaties, council meetings, winter reserves, and border disputes.
I was simply Skye.
And the man holding me was simply Eryx.
His hand settled at my waist, warm and steady, while our joined fingers lifted between us. The musicians struck a slower melody, the violin weaving through the deeper
