A Court of Fire and Sun

chapter twelve

***Helion***

"So, she knows?" Taryn sat a white plate down that had different pastries on it. She began to pour me a cup of tea as I studied my options. I chose a chocolate filled croissant with almond shavings on top.

Esther and I had arrived home earlier this morning; we were- restless- at the hotel. I had left her sleeping in my bed, wrapped up in a white sheet. Gods. Esther was so fucking beautiful. "She gathered. Last night we-"

Taryn interrupted me, "Please. Spare me the details. I think the whole fucking day court knows what you two were doing. You forget how many of us live in this palace? Cauldron spare us if you two continue with-" she stopped to give a dramatic shiver.

I couldn't help but laugh. "Oh Taryn, don't act like yo don't know what's like. She's just so fuckin-"

"Hey! Shut up, pea brain," Taryn scowled before darting out of my study.

I sighed, tipping back the tea Taryn had made for me. In all of my years I had never been the type to settle down. I had never really knew what it would be like to have a bond. I had always thought when watching Rhys and Feyre or Nesta and Cassian- just anyone with mates- that it would be so boring. The thought had still been strange even when I knew Esther was my mate.

It wasn't until last night, when the bond clicked into place, that I truly understood it. There was nothing I wouldn't do for her now. I wanted to protect her, love her, cherish her. I don't think I could ever think of anyone else now.

A letter appeared on my desk tearing me from my thoughts. The heavy brown envelope had scribbled black writing on it.

Helion and Lady Esther

Suddenly I felt nervous. Maybe it was just Rhys. But, no, Rhys would just winnow in. He would skip the formalities. Feyre? No, she would just have Rhys contact me. Maybe the inn owner last night was looking for compensation to some unfortunate damages the headboard made to the wall. Which I had already left a lot of money behind for but I would be more than willing to pay up.

I waited a long moment before I opened the letter. A folded a parchment was tucke3d neatly inside. I could see through the paper it was filled out with the same black ink scribble.

Dear High Lord of the Day Court. We assumed we were at an understanding. You lied when you said you weren't harboring a fugitive of ours. It has come to our attention that Esther resides in your company. Funnily enough the two of you were seen flying together yesterday heading to Velaris. Don't worry. I won't be telling my father.

However, I will require compensation. You now owe me a debt. I'll see you when it's time to call in said debt.

Truly, Eris

My first reaction was to roll my eyes. In the war Eris had proved to be somewhat of an ally to Rhys and our cause. Even still, I didn't like the male. From what I knew of him he was not a good male. Though he may of sided with us I was sure it was not without some ill or opposite intentions. There's no telling what he would ask of me when the time came. But, in order to keep Esther safe, I would comply.

I exited the study and found Taryn in the next room over, sewing a burnt orange lace onto a sheer gold undergarment. "Your grace," she said rolling her eyes and not looking up.

My mouth went dry. Was Taryn making Esther lingerie to wear? "What's that?" I couldn't stop myself from asking.

Another eye roll. "I suppose you'll find out soon enough. Can I help you?"

Even though her tone was hard I didn't miss the twinkle in her eye or the small, quick smile she gave me. "I need to visit Rhysand. Eris sent a letter and well- I need to figure some stuff out. When Esther wakes up will you tell her I'll be back?"