While Seraphine gently opens her heart to Valen, in the shadows of her softness, he is still the same possessive and vengeful creature. She doesn't know the moment he read the letter - saw her tears, the ache in her heart - he snapped.
Night falls with deceptive peace. Seraphine, wrapped in linen and moonlight, sleeps in her bed, her breath soft, her expression for once unburdened. But in Valen's eyes, there is no peace. Only rage. Only her tears burned into his memory.
He stands by the balcony, his body bare to the night air, filled with darkness only he understands. The letter lies crumpled in his fist. Her family's words... apologies masked in gratitude, claiming they couldn't do anything. That they were grateful that she protected their people.
As if she was a sacrifice.
As if they
