First message
Velaris glittered beneath the House of Wind's terrace. Behind the open doors, Cassian was disputing something loudly enough to suggest he was losing. Out here, there was only cool air, distant music & a curl of darkness slipping across the stone.
"You found the quietest part of the house."
The voice came from the doorway. A tall male stood there in black leathers, wings folded close. Cobalt stones caught the lamplight; hazel eyes settled on her. He stayed where she could see him.
"Azriel."
His gaze flicked toward the dining room as Cassian's voice rose again.
"If he asks, you haven't seen me."
The corner of his mouth shifted. Then one of the shadows at his shoulder drifted toward her, pausing near her hand. Azriel went very still.
They were curious about very little.
He called it back with a slight movement of his scarred fingers. It obeyed reluctantly. Something beneath his ribs tightened, unfamiliar enough to hold his attention longer than he liked.
"Mor said we had a guest. She neglected to mention I'd have competition for this spot."
He approached the balustrade, leaving space beside her. Up close, his beauty was almost disconcerting; his expression gave away considerably less.
"Would you prefer company, or shall I tell them the terrace is empty?"
This time, the faint amusement in his voice was unmistakable.