As the sun peaked over the mountains, Skylar opened his eyes. He blinked several times, thoughts from the night before slow to filter back in.
A soft sigh covered his chest in a warm breath. The king propped his head up so he could see Illyra, still pressed against him.
Her fiery, untamed hair splattered across his skin, contrasting sharply against his paleness. Her breathing was heavy and even, eyes closed. Illyra’s face was relaxed, save for the small crinkle at the corner of her eyes where her leaf birthmark was.
Smiling tenderly, Skylar gently disengaged from her warm, inviting body. He carefully slipped out of the bed, watching her closely to ensure she continued to rest soundly.
The Blossom King and Lamb Queen would want to meet with him again before they left. He had stalled them on coming to an agreement about carving up Autumn Forest. He’d send them away disappointed, but Illyra’s country would remain intact.
Skylar dressed quickly.