The sun shining through russet leaves and Scarlet Sage. A meadow of flowers. An array of colour. Bright. Alive. Quiet. Peaceful. Distant smoke. A burning ember. An Autumn breeze. Crunching leaves. Hurried steps. Pounding heart. They're coming for you. RUN. ---- Elain is unsure of what the mating bond is or how it works, but she isn't sure if that is the only thing drawing her towards Lucien. The memories of Hybern, the Cauldron, the war, they follow her every move. Not to mention the memories of what is to come, the "gift" the Cauldron gave her, that strike at any moment. Will she be able to keep her head up? Will she be able to open her heart to the life around her, to the male the universe chose for her? Lucien can barely believe the mating bond exists. Never in his life did he allow himself to hope for one. But of course nothing is ever easy. He understands Elain's reluctance. He understands her fear, her confusion. He wouldn't force her, would never harm her. With the scars on his soul and the blood on his hands, he truly couldn't blame her. If only it wasn't so painful. He would do anything to make her happy. Whatever that may be. (Disclaimer: Background artwork on cover does not belong to me. All rights to the artist. I do not own any of the characters from the Acotar series. All rights to Sarah J Maas)