Page 39 of A Kingdom of Magic and Rain

“I am happy to see them. I only wish it were under better circumstances. They came down because you reported a ‘sighting’. A few minutes ago, my father was urging me to return to the capital with them.”

He assumed a sober expression as his gaze searched my face. “What did you tell him?”

I stared back. “Do you think I should leave?” The underlying question was: “Do you want me to leave?” It was a test, though I wasn’t sure what I would do if he said ‘yes’.

He looked conflicted. “It’s my duty to tell you to listen to the king because you’ll be safer in the capital…” My breath caught as silence reigned for a moment before he added, “But I can’t bring myself to do it.”

With my heart aflutter in my chest, I teased, “I thought we shouldn’t listen to our hearts and must rely on our heads instead?”

“I know, I know. I’m not following my own advice.” He shook his head.

I gave a small smile. “I have already told him that I’m staying.”

“Good.” We stared at each other for a few seconds, and the air between us became taut like it always did…until Tom cleared his throat loudly, interrupting the moment between us like he always did.

“We’re leaving,” he said, gesturing to the carriages.

When I looked in that direction, Sebastian was helping my parents board the royal coach. My father must have been exhausted after the magic transfer, which prompted the change in the seating arrangement. As Tom turned his back to us and set off toward the other carriage, Adrian offered: “You’re welcome to ride back with me.”

“Only if we can leave your adviser behind,” I said under my breath.

He huffed out a laugh before schooling his features. “You know we can’t do that.”

“I know,” I grumbled. “I’ll ride with my family. I’ll see you back at the manor.”

“Sounds good.” As I took a step away from him, he added, “Emelin?” I halted and looked at him. His silver eyes were bright as he said, “I’m glad you’re staying.”

“So am I,” I answered shakily. I wasn’t sure if I was ready for a new relationship, but I had bought myself more time to find out.

“Are you sure I can’t convince you to come home with us?” my mother asked the following morning as my family prepared to travel back to the capital.

She lovingly ran her hands down my unbound locks draped in front of my shoulders. Her own light-brown tresses were in a low chignon. Dressed in a simple plum gown, she looked regal as she always did, no matter her attire.

“I’m sure. I don’t want to lose momentum with developing my powers.”

She nodded before embracing me tightly. “I know that’s not the only reason,” she whispered before she pulled away. “Lord Gray.” She switched her attention to Adrian. “I say with confidence that Zalie is in capable hands. Will you be attending the Solstice Ball in Nasyra?”

“Thank you, Your Majesty.” Adrian bowed. “And yes, of course, I’m looking forward to it.”

“That’s wonderful to hear! Lady May is looking forward to seeing you. I believe you two are close?”

“We are. She was like a mother to me growing up.”

My ears perked up at that tidbit of information, and I made a mental note to ask him about it later.

“I can’t wait for you to spend some time with Miri,” Sebastian said as he hugged me.

When it was my father’s turn, he also had a message for me. “Two weeks, Emelin. If anything else happens⁠—”

“I know, Father.” I kissed him on the cheek. “I’ll see you in two weeks.”

“Thank you for your hospitality.” My mother pressed Thea’s hands. “And for ensuring our comfortable stay.” She smiled at Killian. “Bye, Sunshine.” She cupped my cheek one more time before following my father and brother out the door.

“The queen is such a beautiful person, inside and out,” Thea said reverently as soon as everyone had departed.

“She truly is. I will feel beyond accomplished in life if I ever become even a fraction of the woman she is,” I confessed.

“A fraction?” Adrian chimed in. “I think you will become so much more than that.”