Valerian left Aurelia's chambers without a backward glance.
The doors closed softly behind him, sealing away the quiet warmth of her presence. He breathed in deeply, trying to steady himself. The pull he felt towards her was too hard for him to control. He had to tell himself the truth....when he walked close to her, it took everything in him to stop himself from kissing her.
After calming himself, he put on his mask again, the mask of a fearsome king.
Whatever gentleness he allowed himself there did not follow him into the corridors of the palace. By the time he reached the lower wing reserved for military briefings, his stride was measured, his expression carved from stone.
Kaelen, Rael, and Therion were already waiting.
Kaelen straightened first when the king entered. "Your Majesty."
Rael and Therion followed suit, fists striking their chests in salute.
Valerian did not sit.
