Kingdom of Ash

She knew it was the latter that sent him
flying these days.
She would never stop being grateful for
that. For the light, the life in Rowan’s eyes.
The same light she knew shone in her own.
Aelin reached the heavy curtains, feeling
for the handle to the balcony door. With a
final smile to Rowan, she slipped into the
morning sun and chill breeze.
She went still, her hands slackening at her
sides, as she beheld what the dawn had
revealed.
“Rowan,” she whispered.
From the rustle of sheets, she knew he was
instantly awake. Stalking toward her, even as
he shoved on his pants.
But Aelin didn’t turn as he rushed onto the
balcony. And halted, too.
In silence, they stared. Bells began pealing;
people shouted.