The Raven and the Songbird

Chapter 18

Gwyn's hand was warm in his as he pushed open the door to the boutique, a sly grin upon his lips after she had observed that the sign in the window was turned to 'closed'.

"Do you have such little faith in me? That I would bring you here without knowing when the store would be open?" Shadows twirled between them, one curling through her silky hair as her lips pursed, teal eyes glittering with challenge. Azriel tucked the curtain of copper behind her ear, leaning in. "You're beautiful like that, you know? That's why I tease you so much." He pressed his lips to hers before she could retort and then pulled her further into the boutique, gowns lining the walls and accessories sparkling in the early morning sun.

"Marta? We're here," he called, pulling his priestess in front of him before winding his arms around her middle. Taking a deep breath, he dipped his chin, letting her water lily scent and lavender shampoo comfort him. There was a hint of vanilla there, too. Something new. She smelled like a dream. "The shop isn't usually open at this hour, but I spoke with Marta and she was so kind as to allow us to monopolize her time and talents," he murmured into her ear. It was a cozy little establishment, and the shadowsinger was glad there would not be other customers. He was quite skilled at keeping his wings in check, but there was no denying that he would have to be vigilant to ensure that he didn't knock anything off of shelves or catch on one of the many garments in the space.

"Master Azriel!" The woman that emerged from the rear of the store was short and stocky, with a flushed face and crinkles at the corners of her eyes from her perpetual friendly smile. She had been peppy and enthusiastic when he had come to her, explaining his hope that she could help him with a dress for the female he was courting. Marta's eyes had lit up. Azriel had been surprised that she made no mention or question regarding his shadows, but seemed not to be bothered by them in the least. The dark-haired shop owner clasped her hands in front of her, cheeks reddening with cheer. "Oh, this must be Miss Gwyneth!"

The spymaster relinquished his hold on the Valkyrie, allowing her to step forward and grasp the hands of the smaller, older fae. "It's a pleasure to meet you, Marta. Thank you so much for allowing us to come in today." Marta waved away the sentiment and reached up to pat Gwyn's cheek.

"No no no, when Master Azriel told me what he wanted to do, I was thrilled to oblige."

"Please, Marta. Just Azriel. I insist." He grinned as she shook her head, pinching the bridge of her nose.

"Yes, yes, of course. I'll try to remember," she answered. "Now come! Let's sit down a moment and discuss what you think you're looking for."

Gwyn's uncertain gaze fell on him, reaching for his hand as they were ushered to a plush sofa upholstered in suede the color of rich chocolate. There was a small pedestal in front of the couch, about a foot high, with a tri-fold mirror on the other side. When they sat, he wound an arm around her back, his other hand in her lap, her fingers tracing the whorls of discolored skin. She was nervous, which took him by surprise. His fearless Gwyn, who led a beast to an Illyrian encampment at the base of Ramiel during the Blood Rite, was anxious about getting a gown for Starfall.

"Is there anything you were thinking of, dear?"

"I... well..." The redhead faltered, looking over to him. She gave him a timid smile, the constellations on her cheeks stained pink. "I suppose I'm not entirely sure."

"There was a gown in the window. It was months ago, but it stopped her in her tracks," Azriel added, giving her hip an encouraging squeeze. "Gwyn hasn't had many occasions for gowns, though. I thought it would be best to defer to you, Marta, to start? Then she can try some things, find what she likes. And then we can come to a final decision."

"Oh, what fun for me!" Marta squealed, clapping her hands. "Alright, dears. You just relax and I'll grab a few things!"

"Marta?" Gwyn spoke as the brunette shot up. Her friendly brown eyes turned to the priestess. "Please, nothing too revealing? I'm afraid I'm not as risque as some of the other ladies in Velaris." Marta just nodded with that smile that never faltered.