The warmth of Master's lap beneath my cheek was exactly as I remembered it—comforting, safe, home. I closed my eyes and allowed myself this moment of perfect contentment, my violet hair spilling across his knees like moonlight. The familiar scent of him, that unique combination of strength and gentleness that was purely Arthur Nightingale, filled my senses and made my chest tight with emotions I'd been carrying for so long.
'I've been good, haven't I?' The words had slipped out so naturally, so easily. Just like before, when I'd knelt beside his chair in this very study and made what I'd thought was such a selfish, embarrassing request. I remembered how my heart had hammered in my chest that day, how I'd been certain he would refuse, push me away, remind me of my place.