"Then…" Caelith's brows drew together slightly, doubt flickering in her eyes. "Will this not disrupt your plans?"
Seeing her unease, Rhaegar's gaze softened, a trace of amusement deepening within it. "It will not, do not fret."
At his assurance, her tension eased. Tilting her head ever so slightly, she allowed herself to rest against his shoulder.
For a fleeting moment, his body stilled—then relaxed. His arm slipped around her waist, drawing her securely into his embrace.
Leaning against him, Caelith breathed in the cool, steady, comforting scent of pine that clung to him. "I know Yvaine cannot be trusted," she murmured. "But she is both greedy and foolish… which makes her an easy target for our plans."
"You are learning to be dangerous," Rhaegar said with a quiet laugh.
In the next instant, his arm tightened subtly around her waist. He bent closer, their eyes meeting—breath mingling, hearts drawing near. Her pulse quickened, warmth rising unbidden to her cheeks.
