Holly
from the bathroom with instructions to visit their aunt Mern who is tending the falcon chicks in the mews. Then from a jar in my bedchamber, I take five honey-soaked biscuits and give one to each child before they flee through the door, their laughter echoing behind them.
“Holly, my skin is shriveling off,” booms a deep voice from the bathing room. “What are you doing out there?”
“Tending to your naughty sons and daughters.” I lean against the carved doorway, a faun’s arrow digging into my arm. “Simply reheat it,” I say, laughing when I take in the glorious sight of my husband. “Must you wear your crown in the bathtub, Gade? Not all crystals fare well with a soaking.”
Wearing a wicked grin, his wet hair frames his sharp cheekbones, then spills over broad shoulders and his muscular chest. “Of course I must. Come join me, and I’ll explain why.”
I sashay closer to the copper tub, making a show of peering down through rose petals and bubbles. “It does look enticing.”
“A surprising comment.” His expression turns reflective. “If I remember correctly, early in our acquaintance, you declared you’d never enjoy witnessing me take my pleasure in my bath. Perhaps you should turn away.”
The sound of his smug laughter cuts off the moment my robe slips from my shoulders, pooling like crimson blood on the floor.
I take his outstretched hand. “You’re correct. I did foolishly say that. But recall what my greatest skill is, my love.”
“Lying?”
“Yes.”
With a quick tug of his arm, I fall into his embrace, water splashing the stone floor.
“The water is cold,” I say. “Why didn’t you fix it?”
Slowly, he licks his lips. “You know I love nothing more than watching you use your powers.”
“Because I’m always making a muddle with them?” I tease. “Or because of this?” I raise my palms and throw my head back, letting all four elements blaze for his entertainment.
Flames dance about the edges of the water, while snow swirls in the air around us, air magic moving our hair like serpents, entwining black and darkest gold together.
Emerald dust merges with flakes of ice, and I open my mouth, allowing a large ice crystal to land on my tongue.
Taking Gade’s face between my palms, I kiss my love, the King of Faery, and share the magic with him.
