SOREN
I entered my chambers expecting warmth.
Not literal heat, though that too, given Eris's natural temperature ran hotter than normal humans, but her presence. The way she made spaces feel occupied even when sleeping, the subtle shift in atmosphere that said someone important was here.
But the bed was empty.
Undisturbed sheets, pillows arranged exactly as servants left them, no indication anyone had been there at all. Confusion hit first, followed immediately by disappointment sharp enough to surprise me with its intensity.
Had I truly driven her away that completely? One evening of distracted conversation and she'd decided my chambers, our chambers, really, since she'd been sleeping here lately, were no longer where she wanted to be?
I caught a guard stationed outside my door before he could fully retreat. "Lady Eris. Have you seen her?"
He bowed slightly, uncomfortable. "Yes, Your Majesty. She returned to her own chambers approximately an hour ago."
