[Silthara Palace — Captain Varesh Chamber — Deep Night]
Deep night had settled over Silthara by the time Varesh finally returned to his quarters; he had spent the last several hours trying very hard to behave as though his life had not been completely ruined in a palace corridor.
Unfortunately, the universe had not cooperated. Every hallway had reminded him of Arkhazunn. Every passing silver lantern had reminded him of the way golden eyes had looked at him like a man on the edge of losing his mind.
Every quiet moment had been worse because in silence, there had been no one to distract him from the memory of those hands around his waist, those infuriatingly gentle kisses pressed against his knuckles, or that final promise spoken in a low voice that still refused to leave his head.
Come to me tonight.
Varesh had not gone on purpose.
