Chapter 4

Being so high up in the sky felt odd, especially after years of being grounded. The view below was breathtaking, like a sprawling canvas of a master artist. Dirt trails snaked through fields and disappeared into forests, their vibrant canopy of leaves painting a colorful picture.

As we neared the mountain, the colorful foliage thickened, blanketing the colossal rock. I tightened my grip on Navine’s shoulders as we approached the mountain, a wave of anxiety washing over me. I had no clue what awaited us upon landing, and the dense forest covering the mountain was intimidating.

I found myself hoping that Navine’s home was as safe as he claimed it to be. I knew I stood no chance against any potential threats, especially the wild beasts rumored to inhabit these mountains. They were too big, too strong for me to handle.

“Does being this high scare you?” Navine asked, a hint of amusement in his voice.

I shook my head. “No. Why do you ask?”

“You’re gripping my shoulders tighter than before.”

“Am I? I hadn’t noticed.”

I didn’t loosen my grip, not ready to admit that the height was indeed intimidating, especially since I hadn’t flown since I was a little girl. I didn’t want him to think I was afraid.

Navine chuckled, his wings spreading wide as he began to circle the mountain. “You have nothing to worry about. I’ll always keep you safe,” he assured me.

The scent and sound of the ocean filled the air as we crossed the mountain peak, revealing a vast expanse of blue stretching out to the horizon. I was awestruck by the sight. I had never seen the ocean before, and it was more beautiful than I could’ve ever imagined.

“It’s so beautiful,” I whispered.

“I take it this is your first time seeing the ocean,” Navine guessed.

“It is,” I confirmed.

“Then I’ll have to show you up close soon. But for now, let’s head to my home. I want you to get familiar with it first,” Navine said.

He began to descend toward the mountainside, and I spotted an open area about halfway up. It was a lush green courtyard, encircled by towering trees. Nestled into the mountainside at the far end of the courtyard was an elegant palace, its sandstone exterior reflecting the sky and shadows.

Large windows adorned the front, and grand double doors marked the entrance. The sound of the ocean was faint as we landed in the courtyard, but still audible. I took in my surroundings as Navine set me down.

“I take it you like what you see,” he said, folding his wings.

“It’s beautiful.” I stepped forward, still taking in the view. “I never imagined such a place could exist so high up on this mountain.”

“Normally, it wouldn’t. But I created this place. Think of it as a sanctuary that most can’t access. And I’d advise against leaving without me. This mountain is home to many large, dangerous beasts. And no offense, but you’re not equipped to handle them,” Navine warned.

“I’m well aware of that. And I have no intention of trying,” I assured him, turning to face him.

“I would hope not. There’s no reason for you to.”

I studied him as we stood there. It was hard to believe that I, of all people, was chosen to be his wife. But doubts lingered in the back of my mind. Everything was happening so fast, even for an alpha.

“If I may ask, my lord, why me? I don’t mean to sound ungrateful, but I’ve heard you’ve never shown interest in a woman before,” I asked.

Navine’s expression remained unchanged as he replied, “I don’t owe anyone an explanation for my choices, not even you. And from now on, call me by my name, not ‘lord’. That’s a title for those far beneath me.”

“I get it, but you did say I wasn’t going to be a beta to you. Just a wife,” I reminded him.

“True, and I meant it. But being my wife is just as significant, so using my name seems appropriate,” Navine said, stepping closer and gently pushing my bangs aside to look into my eyes. “Let’s go inside, my beautiful Raelina. You should see more of your new home.”

I managed a nod, trying to keep my blush under control. His compliments were going to take some getting used to.

Navine led me to the double doors, opening one and guiding me inside. The palace was as stunning as I’d imagined. The marble floors sparkled in the soft light, and a massive crystal chandelier hung high above us, its golden lights twinkling gently.

A grand staircase led to the second floor, and two large archways on either side of us opened to different areas. As Navine showed me around, I began to grasp the enormity of the place. The first floor housed several parlors and drawing rooms, a library, and the dining room and kitchen.

The second floor had another library, a drawing room, and four large bedrooms. The main bedroom, at the end of the East Wing, was larger than the cottage I’d shared with Nana. The bedroom was fit for a queen. The ornate ivory headboard of the king-sized bed was against the far wall, with large posts at the corners.

Ivory dressers were scattered around the room, along with two large matching wardrobes, and windows lined the far wall. Glass double doors opened to a balcony, and the only contrast to the ivory décor was the dark carpet and walls.

“This is amazing. I haven’t seen a bedroom this big since I visited Lord Jekia’s palace as a child,” I said, stepping forward to take it all in.

“I wouldn’t expect you to. Most people wouldn’t have a home like this or see the need for it. I just prefer more space,” Navine replied.

“But doesn’t it get lonely, being mostly alone in such a big place?” I asked.

“I’ve grown to enjoy the solitude, so it doesn’t bother me,” Navine said.

He walked over to one of the wardrobes and opened it to reveal a collection of dresses. “Let’s stay on topic. This is our bedroom, and this wardrobe is yours. You’re free to go anywhere in the palace and on the grounds. All I ask is that you don’t leave without me and that you’re with me when I want you to be.”

“That seems fair. If I’m your wife, I’d expect to be by your side if we have visitors,” I said. Then I asked about the dresses. “Did you have these made for me?”

“Yes, I had them made for you. Now that you’re mine, you should have proper dresses.”

“That’s very thoughtful, but how did you know my size?”

“That was easy to figure out, so they should fit perfectly.”

I felt a little overwhelmed as this sank in. It was clear that Navine had been planning for my arrival. Nana was right. I never really had a choice in this.

But I had to accept that. After all, there was nothing bad about any of this. I had a beautiful home, and Navine was clearly willing to provide the best for me.

At least I would be well cared for, but I was going to voice my preferences.

“I can’t argue with that, and these dresses look beautiful,” I said, flipping through them. “But I also enjoy making my own. Would that be okay with you?”

“If that’s what you enjoy, I have no problem with it. Just let me know what kind of fabric you want, and I’ll make sure you have it,” Navine promised.

Despite my best efforts, I felt overwhelmed again. He was being so kind to me. I couldn’t help but question it a little.

“Please, don’t misunderstand me. I’m truly honored that you’ve chosen me to be your wife. But I’m struggling to understand why. We barely know each other, and I’m nowhere near your level of power.”

I couldn’t bring myself to look at him as I confessed this. Instead, I chose to focus on the task of closing the wardrobe.

“I’ve already told you, I don’t owe anyone an explanation—not even you,” Navine replied, his tone sharp.

I let out a resigned sigh. There it was—the superior attitude I’d been bracing myself for.

The room fell silent, the only movement coming from the light curtains swaying gently around the open windows. I was at a loss for words. This was the last place I’d imagined myself being just a week ago.

Maybe I wasn’t as prepared for this as I’d been telling myself.

Before I knew it, Navine was standing behind me. His arm encircled my waist as he leaned over me. A strange feeling washed over me, as if this embrace should’ve felt familiar, but I couldn’t understand why.

It couldn’t have been just because we’d been close on the flight here.

“Please, don’t mistake me for being condescending, my dear. I just don’t see the need to dwell on that topic. What’s important is that you’re here with me now, and I plan on making sure you’re always happy,” he whispered.

“You’re quite the enigma, Navine, but I think I’m starting to like that about you,” I confessed, turning to face him.

A satisfied smile spread across Navine’s face as I tentatively wrapped my arms around his shoulders, feeling his hands on my waist.

“I hope you’ll come to like everything about me in time.”

“I hope so too.”

My eyes fluttered shut as he leaned in closer. The sensation of his lips on mine made my heart skip a beat. I’d never been kissed by a man before, though I’d often fantasized about it. This was far beyond anything I’d ever imagined.

A deep, amused chuckle escaped Navine as he pulled away. His breath lightly brushed against my lips.

“It’s so tempting to take this further than just a kiss, but it’s too soon. I don’t want to rush things and make you uncomfortable,” he said, cradling my face and gently stroking my cheeks.

I opened my eyes, meeting his gaze. My cheeks flushed with a hint of embarrassment as I took in his intense look.

“I may be inexperienced, but I don’t see any reason to be afraid with you. I’m willing to do whatever you want,” I offered.

“Maybe I’ll take you up on that offer tonight,” Navine said with a smile. He planted a quick kiss between my eyes. “Why don’t you get settled in? I need to check on a few things, so I’ll be downstairs if you need me.”

“Are you going to check on the servants?”

“No. I don’t see the need for them as I can handle most things myself.”

That caught me off guard. “There are no servants here at all?”

“There’s never been a need for them, but if you’d prefer, I could hire a couple to help us with whatever you need. I understand you might be used to having people around and might feel lonely if I have to go out without you,” Navine conceded.

“That’s true, but I’ve never been one to need a lot of company.” Another thought occurred to me as I said this—one I felt compelled to voice. “It might be helpful to have a few servants around if we’re planning on having children.”

“There’s no need to worry about that. I have no intention of having children, and I’ve taken steps to ensure it won’t happen,” Navine reassured me.

I was taken aback. I’d assumed he’d want me to bear him a few children.

“You really don’t want any children?” I asked for confirmation.

“You seem surprised.”

“Why wouldn’t I be? Isn’t it every alpha’s goal to continue their bloodline?”

“Yes, usually it is, but I don’t see the need. There’s already a suitable heir to my bloodline, even if he’s not my own, and Jekia has plenty of his own heirs. That frees me from such concerns,” Navine explained.

“You’re sure you don’t want a family of your own?” I asked again.

“As I’ve said, there’s no reason for me to want that. That ship has sailed, and I have no intention of revisiting it.”

A hush blanketed the room, the tension between us palpable. I was at a loss for how to navigate this conversation. It seemed like Navine might have yearned for more in his life, but something was holding him back.

Could he be the one holding himself back? And if so, why?

Finally, I mustered the courage to break the silence. “I’m sorry if I’m overstepping. I just assumed you’d want a family, too.”

“No need to apologize,” Navine said, his tone soothing. His gaze softened as he added, “Like I said earlier, make yourself comfortable. I’ll be downstairs if you need anything.”

He bent down, cupping my face and planting a tender kiss on my lips. It was so gentle, so unlike what I’d expected from him. I felt a sense of certainty that I was in the right place, whether or not I’d had a choice in the matter.

Even in this brief time, I felt a sense of belonging with Navine.

Still, I found it hard to let him go, my fingers clinging to his as he started to pull away.

“Do you…have to leave right now?” I stammered out. I wished I could sound more confident, but I wasn’t quite there yet.

~That’s something I need to work on~, I thought.

“I can stay a little longer if that’s what you want. Are you nervous about being alone here so soon?” Navine asked.

I shook my head. “Not really. I just… well…”

“It’s okay. I think I understand,” Navine said, his voice gentle. “It wouldn’t be fair to leave you alone so soon after bringing you here. What I need to do isn’t urgent.”

“I know you’re busy, but I’d like to spend as much time with you as I can for now. I want to get to know you better, and I hope you want to know more about me too,” I said.

“I’ll give you that. You probably don’t know much about me. Most people don’t,” Navine admitted.

He sat on the edge of the bed and added, “But I think I know more about you than you realize. Still, there are things I can only learn by spending time with you.”

That caught me off guard. “Did you ask others about me?”

“Just one person. I talked to Jekia about you after we met.”

“You talked to Lord Jekia about me?”

That was unexpected. I’d assumed that if Navine wanted to know more about me, he’d have asked Emelio. That mage knew my story well.

“You seem surprised,” Navine observed.

“I can’t deny it. I thought you’d talk to Lord Emelio about me, not Lord Jekia,” I confessed.

In hindsight, that assumption seemed foolish. Navine and Lord Jekia were equals in power, so it made sense that they’d communicate directly. Plus, Navine knew that Lord Jekia had saved me as a child.

“We do talk freely, and he’s always open to me,” Navine said, leaning back a bit. “Besides, it seemed appropriate to discuss my intentions to marry you with him. I didn’t want him to hear it from someone else. So, I took the initiative to visit him and discuss everything.”

“He didn’t seem to object. I mean, I’m here now,” I pointed out.

“Yes, you are. And no, he didn’t object. He knows me well and trusts my intentions for you. He’s quite fond of you, even though you weren’t raised in his palace with his children. But I think it was better for you to grow up among the other Fae, even if they’re not your sect. The isolation that comes with high power can be tough on children, especially one who’s experienced significant trauma,” Navine explained.

I sat down next to him, my hands folded in my lap, and took a deep breath. “I won’t argue with you about those things. I’ve been through some stuff, sure, but I’m stronger than all that. I just get a little jumpy in new places, or when I’m far from home,” I admitted.

“Is that why you’re worried about me leaving you here alone?” Navine asked.

“Well, partly. But I also meant what I said. I want to spend time with you, get to know you as more than just my husband or lover,” I said, reaching out to hold his hands.

“I want that too. I think it would be good for you to be involved in what I do. You might not be my beta, but your place by my side will be just as important, especially among the other Dragons,” Navine told me.

“But I’m a Sun Faerie. I’m not sure it’s my place to help rule among Dragons.”

“It doesn’t matter what you are. You’re mine, and that makes you just as important in our world.”

I was about to reply when we heard the sound of large wings flapping outside. We both sat up, looking toward the double doors. A familiar feeling washed over me as the sound grew louder and something approached the palace.

~Another Dragon?~ I thought. ~What timing.~

Navine let out an annoyed sigh, releasing my hands and standing up.

“He really has the worst timing,” he grumbled.

“Is he another Dragon?” I asked.

“Yes. The one coming is the Onyx Dragon, Niles,” Navine confirmed.

I recognized the name immediately. Anika had mentioned Lord Niles to me, although she’d said she’d never met him.

“Is he coming to see me?” I asked as Navine helped me to my feet.

“No, but he’ll be very interested when he sees you,” Navine replied.

“Wait. Are you saying they don’t know you brought me here?” I asked.

“I didn’t see any reason to involve them. What I do is my business.”

“But what if…”

“Enough,” Navine interrupted. He ran his fingers through my hair and kissed me before continuing, “Let’s not keep him waiting. Just follow my lead and let me handle things.”