Kingdom of Ash

But Nesryn Faliq had found him. Or they’d
found each other. And then they had figured it
out, a bit of chance in this wide world.
His fortune as a merchant was hers to
inherit, if she would like.
“Whatever you wish,” Falkan said. “You
shall never want for anything again.”
Lysandra was crying, and it was pure joy
on her face as she flung her arms around
Falkan and embraced him tightly.
Aedion watched, silent and ripped open.
Yet happy for her—he would always be happy
for her, for any ray of light she found.
Lysandra pulled away from Falkan, though.
Still smiling bright, more lovely than the
night sky above. She laced her fingers with
Aedion’s and squeezed tight as she answered
her uncle at last, “I already have everything I
need.”