Malric's Pov(The past)

The night was heavy, but when I closed my eyes at her grave, I wasn't here anymore.

I was back there...with her.

Celia.

The air was softer, warmer. Lanterns glowed faintly across the balcony, spilling golden light over her hair as she leaned against the railing. She was laughing, my gods, she was laughing. That sound, clear and bright, could slice through every shadow I carried inside me.

"You're not even listening to me," she accused, pointing her finger at me in mock outrage.

"I am," I lied, stepping closer, my eyes tracing the curve of her mouth.

"No, you're staring at me like a wolf about...