Alex Aster

It was the most difficult decision I’ve ever made, Hearteater. Knowing that succeeding meant you beguiling someone else. Making you forget our story. Our love.”

Her stories were fruits in a tree—sweet and limited. She spoke of kings who could grip the sun in their hands, white-haired

Five hundred years before, each of the six realms—Wildling, Starling, Moonling, Skyling, Sunling, and Nightshade

“You are enough, little bird. Better than any of them.”

“Why do you care what I think? You barely know me.”

I will come for you. He had said it like a promise.

Grim’s dark eyes flashed with amusement. “Careful, Hearteater,” he whispered, towering over her, standing far too close. “I might just give it to you.”

Her feet kicked air, high above the churning sea. She looked up at him. “Don’t let me fall in.”

His eyes met hers. “Never,” he said.

Isla glared at him.

“Never again,” he amended

“I’m not sure what I enjoy more. Seeing the way you grip a sword . . . or the way your dress grips you.”

“I’m not sure what I enjoy more. Seeing the way you grip a sword . . . or the way your dress grips you.”