Emily’s POV.
The sun dipped low in the sky as we arrived at the castle, casting long shadows across the courtyard. The air was tinged with the coolness of dusk, and a light breeze rustled the banners hanging from the castle walls.
Our carriage halted before the grand terrace and Calix stepped out first, his movements fluid and commanding. He turned to me and offered me his hand.
A smile tugging at my lips, I took his hand and he helped me down the carriage. We proceeded to the dining hall and settled down to a sumptuous dinner, after which Calix and I steered upstairs to our room.
“Please sit.” Calix gestured at the couch. He disappeared into the washroom and came out with a remedy box. “Allow me,” he said, and took my bruised arm.
His touch was gentle as he cleaned the wound, his fo
