(Damien's POV)
The throne room felt heavier than usual, though the sunlight streamed through the tall, arched windows. I sat behind the ornate desk, papers strewn before me, yet my mind refused to focus on them. I had tried, tried to sift through the reports of the villages, the letters from distant nobles, and the constant reminders of what needed to be done but every time my eyes skimmed the text, my thoughts drifted elsewhere.
Elara had been here, and for a time, her presence had eased the weight of responsibility. But now she was gone, returning to her own lands, and I was left alone in the quiet buzz of the palace. Alone, except for the shadows of my own thoughts.
Adrian. I couldn't stop thinking about him.
