💖FROM HATE TO HEART 💖

TORN BETWEEN SHADOWS

💗CH-10💗

The quiet forest surroundings them its air thick with the scent of earth and blooming wildflowers. Alec stood a few steps away from Magnus, his large frame casting a shadow over the delicate fae. The afternoon sunlight caught on Alec's dark hair and the polished edges of his dragon armor, making him seem both regal and untouchable.

Magnus adjusted his long braid, his honey-toned skin glowing faintly under the sunlight. He avoided Alec's piercing gaze, focusing instead on the beautiful horse that would take him back to Aetheria. It hummed softly, the with his soft mouth.

"I appreciate your kindness, Your Majesty," Magnus said softly, his voice steady but distant. "It was generous of you to ensure my safety."

Alec crossed his arms, his expression unreadable. "It wasn't kindness. I owed it to you for helping me understand that artifact."

Magnus allowed a faint smile, though it didn't reach his eyes. "Then consider your debt repaid."

For a moment, the forest was silent save for the rustling leaves. Alec shifted his stance but didn't step closer. There was something about Magnus-his quiet grace, his strength despite his frail appearance-that made it difficult for Alec to turn away.

"You're sure you'll be safe from here?" Alec asked, his tone gruff but laced with concern.

Magnus finally met his gaze, amber eyes glittering. "I've lived in the fae realm my whole life. I can take care of myself, you already have gave me company now you can go Your Majesty."

Alec nodded, though he wasn't convinced. His instincts, sharp as a dragon's, told him not to leave. Yet, he knew Magnus wouldn't accept his protection any longer.

Magnus stepped toward the portal, his slender fingers brushing over the glowing runes. He hesitated, as if he wanted to say something, but the words wouldn't come.

"Magnus," Alec called softly.

The fae turned, his braid swaying with the movement. "Yes?"

Alec's lips parted, but he found himself unable to say what was on his mind. You could stay. I don't want this to be the end. But none of those words would sound right.

Instead, he reached into the pouch at his side and withdrew a small, polished dragon scale, iridescent in the fading sunlight. He held it out to Magnus.

"Take this," Alec said. "If you ever need me... you'll know how to find me."

Magnus stared at the scale, his amber eyes widening. "A dragon scale? Alexander, this is-"

"A gift," Alec interrupted. "Nothing more. Don't think too much about it."

Magnus accepted the scale carefully, his touch reverent. "Thank you."

Alec nodded, stepping back as the portal began to glow brighter. Magnus looked at him one last time, his lips curving into a soft smile. It was the kind of smile that hinted at words left unsaid.

And then he stepped through the portal, vanishing in a swirl of light.

Alec stood there for a long time, staring at the empty space where Magnus had been. The forest felt colder now, quieter.

With a heavy sigh, Alec turned and began the long journey back to his castle, though his thoughts lingered on the fae with the golden braid and amber eyes.

The ride back to Alicante was uneventful, yet Alec's mind was anything but quiet. The road stretched ahead, bordered by tall oaks and golden fields, but all he could see in his thoughts was Magnus. The fae's amber eyes haunted him, their warmth and strength stirring emotions Alec hadn't felt in years.