Daphne stirred awake to a quiet chamber.
Alaric was already gone.
The other side of the bed was cold, but the absence of his body was softened by the sight on her bedside table.
A neat bouquet of fresh flowers sat in a silver vase.
Beside them lay a small velvet box, and on top of it, a folded note.
She reached for the note first, her fingers trembling slightly.
My love,
Enjoy your day, and keep me in your heart as I keep you in mine. You are my first thought every morning and my last every night. Never forget that.
—A.
Her lips curved as she pressed the paper to her chest, warmth spreading through her.
Only then did she lift the little box and open it.
Inside was a brooch of exquisite craftsmanship, delicate silver shaped like blooming roses, with tiny sapphires glinting at the edges.
Her breath caught. She loved it instantly.
With a smile, she pinned it carefully to her dress before calling for her maids to help her prepare.
