Aldric wasn’t kidding when he had called this place "mini Astaria."
As Islinda walked through the streets, she marveled at how similar everything was to the grand city she had grown accustomed to.
The architecture, the layout of the streets, even the energy in the air, it all mirrored Astaria so closely that if someone had told her they were back in the capital, she might have believed it.
Yet, this place was supposed to be the Night Court, or at least what remained of it. If the Night Court had ever had its own distinct culture, it was nowhere to be found now, buried beneath the influence of the other courts, especially the Summer and Spring Fae.
Islinda’s heart clenched. The Night Court was gone forever, unless Aldric brought it back. But how could he? Aldric might be a prince by birthright, but he was only half Winter Fae and had spent his entire life in Astaria or on the battlefield. He’d never known the Night Court. It had never truly belonged to him.
"It’s not all bad," she thought, remembering the last time she and Aldric had snuck away like this. That time, they had ended up buying Prince Wayne. Speaking of Wayne, Islinda suddenly realized she hadn’t seen him in a while. She had been so caught up in recent events that her mind had barely registered his absence.
Well, he must be around the estate somewhere, surely being spoiled by Ginger or Ailee. When they returned, she would make sure to ask.
For now, though, Islinda pushed the thought aside and allowed herself to enjoy the moment. With their identities hidden, she and Aldric were free to enjoy their date like any other couple.
Islinda had the chance to taste more Night Court delicacies, though most of the time Aldric stole bits of her food from her plate or playfully from her mouth. She pretended to be annoyed, but deep down, she loved his teasing.
As the evening wore on, they stopped by an open-air theater where a small play was being performed. Islinda had been excited, but as the play unfolded, her excitement gave way to unease. The story was eerily familiar. It was about a fae who had stumbled into the human realm and fallen in love with a human woman. It didn’t take long for her to realize that the play was inspired by her past relationship with Valerie.
Oh boy.
It seems this unfortunate romance of theirs would follow her forever. On the bright side, she was famous.
Except it didn’t sit well for a certain Fae.
Beside her, Aldric stiffened. His eyes darkened with jealousy, his jaw clenched so tight she feared it might crack.
Islinda reached out to squeeze his hand, trying to reassure him, but it was too late. She felt the shift in the air as Aldric silently summoned his shadows.
A sudden commotion erupted near the stage as the shadows caused one of the sets to collapse. The actors scrambled in confusion, and the performance ended abruptly.
Islinda shot him a look. "Really?"
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