I NEED acosf theories! Please post them! Comment with them! Or Shout then from the roof tops!

I’ll start off with one of mine - Nesta originally met Eris during one of the nights that the Keir and the Hewn City are allowed into the city. They hit it off because our boy Eris recognizes her strength and power without any back history

So I’m not super in to the Nesta and Azriel best buddies for forever relationship BUT

I do love the idea of them having conversations about and connecting through the darkness and the shadows they both deal with on the regular. That is where I think the mutual respect will come from

I don’t like going to parties, I hate public speaking, talking about myself gives me hives, I would throw myself in front of the bullet for those that I love, my family misunderstands me, it’s hard to “get” me, I hide my soft feelings behind a suit if armor made or rude remarks, there is definitely some sexual frustration and tension in my life, I find it hard to start a fire, I never want to go to the gym and train, and yeah I love a good romance novel.

Oh crap. I AM NESTA

I have often thought that Nesta’s power isn’t death

First, because Feyre is convinced it is death. And When has Feyre ever been known to truly get her sister?

Second, it was said at one point that Nesta took from the cauldron everything it had taken from her. It is assumed she got the death powers because it had killed her but in reality the cauldron was also giving her life, a new life.

Third, I think often because if Nesta’s bluntness and brutality in conversation it is thought that she is similar to death. But no we know she is sensitive and caring behind her outer wall. She is life and creation more than death and killing

Fourth, just because the bone carver heard of Nests dosent mean she is death. She could be deaths greatest enemy - life

Nesta is life she is creation she is a new beginning

So like if we bought the ebook we get it at midnight, right? Like that was the whole point, right? Till Feb 16th at 12:00am ACOSF we have a date!

I freaking love this scene. It shows why I can’t stand Feyre at all! Her sister is telling her how uncomfortable she feels, how she needs them to leave. And Feyre dismisses it like 3 times. She doesn’t believe Nesta untill Cassian starts taking her seriously. She doubted her te whole time Come on Feyre, she deserves better. You treat her like Tamlin treated you. Very bad, very, very bad.

A Picture & The Story Behind

Part 5: Together We find Peace, Together We Find Sleep

Azriel and Gwyn find peace together in the darkness.

**************************************************************

Commission by @booknerd87

Art by @silvverart on Instagram

Story by @tealnymph24or@tealnymph-writes 

Disclaimer: All characters belong to Sarah J Maas

Together We Find Peace, Together We Find Sleep - tealnymph24 - A Court of Thorns and Roses Series - Sarah J. Maas [Archive of Our O

Read on AO3

Azriel x Gwyn

Warnings: Fluff

Word Count: 1,438

Masterlist

Gwyn’s legs carried her toward the small pond almost without thought. The cool breeze from the Illyrian mountains a refreshing balm to her overly warm skin.

She had woken in a sweat from an unexpected nightmare, mindlessly searching the bed in the hope that Azriel had returned from his last-minute mission. To her dismay, she had quickly realized she was still alone. She hadn’t been able to shake the nightmare. She wanted nothing more than to feel the comforting warmth of a certain Illyrian, but she found herself leaving the small cabin in search of solace instead.

As she wound her way down the darkened path, she remembered the first night she had found herself here. Azriel had brought her to the pond when she had lamented the lack of any nearby place to swim. He had simply smirked, then escorted her through the trees near camp until he revealed the small pond, just big enough for an Illyrian to float comfortably.

Only a moment later, her memory gave way to the real thing. The pond materialized before her, the soft light of the moon illuminating the picturesque pond surrounded by lush trees. The breeze caught the silk of her nightgown, gently swaying the light blue fabric as if to remind her that these woods were far from empty. But Azriel had told her everything about these woods, ensuring she would be safe even in the deepest parts.

Without so much as a pause for fear, Gwyn stripped off her nightgown and tossed it by a nearby tree. She quickly twisted her hair into a loose knot, then waded into the water, reveling in the cold caress on her skin. The water felt like home, instantly washing away the lingering fear her nightmare had conjured. She stepped in further, the water rising until it was rippling just above her breasts, sending bursts of goosebumps across her freckled skin.

She closed her eyes, letting her mind rest while the water calmed her nerves. She had grown accustomed to Azriel being gone on missions, but it had become increasingly difficult to avoid the inevitable longing she felt when he was away. She was in love with him. Madly, hopelessly in love with him. She had realized it weeks ago but had been secretly hoping he might say something first. But he had remained silent – as patient as ever.

She took a deep breath, forcing herself to shove her nightmare away. Azriel’s silence didn’t have to mean anything. He had always been patient with her, so there was no reason to believe that he didn’t want her. Her nightmare was just that: a nightmare.

Another breeze rippled across the water, bringing with it the subtle scent of cedar. She breathed it in, not realizing that the trees around her weren’t cedars at all. It wasn’t until a shadow caressed her cheek that she looked up, her teal eyes meeting a pair of amused hazel ones.

“Azriel!” She gasped, her face flushing when his lips quirked into a knowing smirk. She took him in, her eyes hungrily roaming over him. To her relief, he appeared unharmed. Still in his leathers, he was as handsome as ever. He was barefoot, which likely accounted for how he had snuck up on her, and he was leaning casually against the tree where she had dropped her nightgown earlier, making her wonder how long he’d been there.

“Hello, Gwyn,” Azriel rumbled, his eyes dipping to where the water moved across her breasts. She blushed deeper but let him look his fill. “I didn’t scare you, did I?”

She shook her head slowly. “No, but…when did you get back?” She asked, moving toward the shore slowly. His eyes followed her, tracking the dip of the water down her chest. “I didn’t think you’d return until tomorrow, at the earliest.”

He gave her a crooked grin. “I got back a half hour ago,” he explained, hazel eyes dancing playfully. “I was tired.”

“Then shouldn’t you be sleeping?” She laughed, moving just far enough that her breasts were almost completely exposed.

“I can’t sleep,” he responded, his eyes filling with heat and…something else. “Now… are you going to come over here or are you going to make me come into that pond with you?”

“You’re standing by my nightgown,” she giggled, her eyes darting almost involuntarily to his mouth when his lips spread into a devilish smirk. “And you’re staring at me.”

His eyebrows rose, his eyes gleaming with mirth. “So?” He said simply, challenge filling his tone. “I’ve seen you in far more scandalous ways, Berdara.”

She flushed crimson, warmth spreading through her. Her mind filled with memories of their nights, and sometimes days, spent exploring every inch of each other. He had seen all of her – even the parts she had been afraid to share.

“Very well then, but it’s your fault if I die of a chill,” she teasingly chided, taking deliberate steps toward him.

He threw his head back with a laugh, reaching his hand out when she got close enough. She accepted his offer without question, letting him pull her toward the tree near the shore. Water dripped in a puddle around her, but Azriel seemed unperturbed by it as he dipped his head, pulling her tightly against his chest before he claimed her mouth.

She melted into his kiss, clinging to his warm leathers while his hands roamed everywhere. She felt a warm caress of magic across her skin, drying the now cold water that still lingered. But she barely noticed, too caught up in the feeling of Azriel’s mouth on hers to care about anything else.

A moment later, they finally broke apart with matching grins as they caught their breath. Azriel gave her one last peck on the cheek, his lips lingering for a second, then turned to grab her nightgown. She lifted her arms gratefully, letting him slide the garment over her skin.

His hands lingered at her waist, which she took full advantage of a moment later. She gripped his hands, tugging him down against the tree with her. He fell between her legs with a lighthearted laugh, twisting carefully until his back was resting against her chest. He closed his eyes, taking a deep breath as he rested his head against her breasts, his wings dropping to either side of her.

She brushed his hair back, gently rubbing his shoulder while they sat quietly together. She could sense how tired he was, echoing her own fatigue. His shadows swirled between them, seeming almost to try and soothe them both. She wondered if they were as tired as she felt.

“Azriel, why couldn’t you sleep?” She murmured, leaning her cheek against his soft mess of black hair.

“What do you mean?” Azriel urged softly, eyes still peacefully closed.

“You said you couldn’t sleep before,” she said, sensing his body slowly relaxing against her. “I was just curious what you meant by that? Is something wrong?”

The hint of a smile graced his features even while his eyes remained shut. She opened her mouth to question him further, but he unexpectedly sat up, shifting until he was on his knees facing her.

“You weren’t there,” Azriel stated, a scarred hand coming to gently cup her cheek. “I sleep better when you’re with me, Gwyn. Hell, I barely sleep at all when you’re not with me, and when I do…I don’t like waking up without you next to me.”

She sucked in a breath, intimately aware of how quiet his voice had gotten. He was nervous, yet she was the one trembling. She shifted forward, moving to her knees before him.

“I had a nightmare tonight,” she admitted, ignoring his puzzled look and leaning into his gentle touch. “I was afraid you didn’t want me. That’s what woke me up and drove me here. I…I sleep better when you’re with me too.”

The smile that lit Azriel’s face radiated happiness, sparking something deep in Gwyn’s soul. She matched his smile with one of her own, laughing when he scooped her up into his arms with a deep kiss.

“Then let’s go to bed, Berdara,” Azriel murmured against her lips, his shadows engulfing them in darkness a moment later.

Hours later, deep in the dark, silent hours of the night, Gwyn drifted off in Azriel’s arms. His warmth radiated through her, calming her earlier nerves and erasing any doubts she had left. The soft tickle of a breath against her cheek was the last thing she felt before sleep claimed her, the whispered words mixing with her dreams.  

“I love you, Gwyneth.”

******************************************

Tags: @starbornsinger|@lovelyladymayyy|@princessofmerchants|@molinden|@tallyovie|@live-the-fangirl-life|@positivewitch|@spookyfreakturtlefire|@discorrdiia|@flora-shadowshine|@hlizr50|@cozycomfyliving08|@gpxxx|@moodymelanist|@secretlovelybeauty|@imsointobooks|@trashforazriel|@icarusave|@almosttenaciousmoon|@fairytamy|@the-hospitality-of-knives|@lattristantketchup|@rhysandswingspan|@shisingh|@georgialeighc13|@chloepereyra|@hellogoodbye14|@spookylightkidranch|@amandapearls|@onemorenightdreamer|@allygug|@acourtofmidnightsnacks|@whoever-you-choose-to-love|@weathervanes-my-oneandlonely|@deedz-thrillerkilller16

If you would like to be tagged in updates, please let me know. You can also turn on post notifications or subscribe to my AO3 for updates, which you can check out here.

A Song of Shadows (Gwynriel)

Part One: Beginnings

1.You Are My Friend, Right?

2.A Heated Training Session

3.Azriel POV - A Heated Training Session

4.Questions and Answers

5.Azriel POV - Questions and Answers

6.Surveillance, Snacks and Secrets

7.Azriel POV - Surveillance, Snacks and Secrets

8.Library Chats and Naps

9.Cocktail Interrogations

10.Poker and Pleading

11.City Lights

12.Delicate Leather

13.Azriel POV - Delicate Leather

14.Chocolate Kisses

15.Scars

16.Party Games

17.Azriel POV - Party Games

18.Bedroom Talk

19.Heated Reunions

20.Moonlight Magic

Part Two

21.Family Dinner

22.Azriel POV - Family Dinner

23.Novel Explorations

24.Azriel POV - Novel Explorations

25.Life of a Spy

26.Restless Night - Part 1

27. Restless Night - Part 2

28.Chess Match Propositions

29.Azriel POV - Chess Match Propositions

30.Sisterly Advice

31.Candid Conversations

Title: Restless Night - Part 1

After a late night of working, Azriel is restless and exhausted, which leads to an interesting conversation with Gwyn.

Note: This is a new style of chapter that I will be doing. Part 2 will pick up right where part 1 left off and be from Gwyn’s pov. In the future, these types of scenes will start with one pov, and end with the other person’s pov. Enjoy!

If you would like to be tagged in updates, please let me know!

Read on AO3

Azriel x Gwyn

Warnings: Steamy fluff.

Word Count: 5,709

Masterlist

Azriel ran a frustrated hand through his hair, irredeemably mussing his already messy locks as he flipped through yet another stack of reports from his spies. They hadn’t found anything new. At least, nothing new that would help him figure out what he was missing. And he knew he was missing something.

He sipped his wine, ignoring the incessant nagging from his shadows to go to bed. He would sleep later, once he figured this out. Until then, he had work to do. It’s almost midnight, his shadows pressed, pulling the covers back on the bed to try and entice him. He simply turned back to his papers, ignoring them.

He pushed his glasses up the bridge of his nose, settling back in his chair as he set his glass of wine back on the desk, preparing to read through more reports. He needed to figure this out, whatever it was. There had to be something in these damn reports.

Besides, he knew he wouldn’t be able to rest anyway. Gwyn had opted to sleep in the priestess dorms tonight, something that was becoming increasingly rare. She had been spending more and more time in his room, but tonight, she had said she would sleep in the dorms, insisting she would be a distraction while he worked. And while she might have been right, that didn’t change the fact that he slept better with her here.

He smiled sadly at the portrait of Gwyn on his desk, which Gwyn had somehow not noticed yet, and shook away the thought of sleeping in his large bed alone. He refocused on the report in his hand, noting anything he thought might be useful and cataloging the rest. Without realizing it, almost another hour had passed, the clock approaching 1 a.m. while he continued working.

The quiet padding of footsteps just outside his door snapped his attention away from the reports, his focus turning to the door just as it slowly swung open. He knew in an instant who it was; only one person would enter his room this late without his shadows warning him.

“Gwyneth, you can come in,” he drawled, setting his papers down with a smile. A small gasp came from behind the door, then a curtain of silky, reddish-brown hair appeared, followed by the freckled face of his favorite priestess.

“Hi,” she shyly smiled, slowly walking in and closing the door behind her. She held on to the knob, her back toward the door as she faced him. He gave her a crooked grin, hungrily taking in the sight of her clad in nothing but a loose nightgown. The moonlight streaming in from his windows illuminated her, shining through the thin fabric and highlighting her lean figure.

“Hi,” he replied, a devilish glint in his eyes as they roamed her body. Ever since their little experiment in the woods the other night, he had wanted nothing more than to continue what they had started. They just hadn’t had time. It was infuriating, and it was ruining his self-control and his sanity.

“Am I interrupting anything?” She asked, making her way to his desk. He shook his head, pulling her onto his lap when she got close enough. She snuggled into him, wrapping her arms around his neck. “I wanted to check on you. I had a feeling you might still be working. You need sleep, Az.”

His lips spread into a thin line, his brow furrowing. “I know, but I’m missing something and it’s driving me crazy. I feel like it’s right under my nose.”

She ran her hands through his hair, her capable fingers stroking him softly before coming to rest at the nape of his neck. “Azriel, you still need rest,” she said sternly, placing the whisper of a kiss to his temple. “You’re not invincible. Depriving yourself of sleep won’t help you figure this out.”

“I know, you’re right,” he grudgingly sighed, toying with the thin strap of her nightgown. “I promise I’ll try to rest more. Now that you’re here though, are you going to stay? You don’t have to, but…I’d like it if you did.”

“I was planning to stay, if you’re okay with it,” she agreed, staring inquisitively at his eyes, her head tilting thoughtfully. “I didn’t know you wear glasses.”

He blanched, remembering the simple black frames that adorned his face. “Yes, I wear them for reading sometimes,” he admitted, averting his gaze and reaching to remove his glasses. A soft hand stopped him, bringing his attention back to her.

“I like them,” she murmured, brushing her fingers along the edge of his frames. “You look cute.”

“Thank you,” he breathlessly replied, heat rising to his cheeks. He had always been a little self-conscious of them, but knowing Gwyn liked him in glasses thrilled him. “Maybe I’ll wear them more often.”

She hummed her satisfaction, toying with the buttons of his shirt. He watched her for a moment, distracted by the way her nightgown was riding up her leg, steadily creeping up her thigh as she shifted in his lap. His heart rate quickened, his cock hardening as he imagined slipping his fingers under that nightgown and finding out what she was wearing underneath. He shook his head, trying to focus on the present again.

“Gwyn, why don’t you go to bed? I’ll join you as soon as I’ve finished this stack of reports,” he promised, his voice rougher than he had intended. He needed a distraction from her soft body before he got into bed with her.

She let out an exasperated sigh but didn’t respond immediately. He could tell she wanted to say something but was holding back, so he waited, watching her turn her attention back to his shirt. She slowly ran her fingers along the edge of the line of buttons, trailing down in the direction of his obvious erection, and then back up to his collar.

She paused, tugging lightly on the button near the top of his shirt, slowly teasing it until it popped open, revealing a sliver of his chest. He sucked in a breath, not entirely sure why he was so aroused by her simply undoing his buttons, but extremely turned on regardless. She did the same thing to the next button, then the next, all the way down until his shirt fell open.

He completely forgot about his reports; his attention utterly focused on Gwyn. He was so fucking hard and all she had done was unbutton his shirt. Was he losing his mind? He had never been this aroused by a female undressing him, but watching Gwyn slowly ease his shirt open was quite possibly one of the sexiest things he had ever witnessed. He was entirely at her mercy.

Her fingers moved toward his abdomen, slowly - too slowly - making contact with his burning skin. His breathing was uneven as she dragged her hand up, gliding softly across his torso, exploring the network of muscles and scars across his body. When her hand finally made it to his collarbone, she leaned down, her lips tracing the line of his jaw until she reached his ear, her breath tickling his skin.

“Come to bed, Azriel,” she firmly commanded, her voice leaving no room for question. Little did she know, there was no need for the firm note in her voice; what she was doing to him was already enough to get him in that bed. There was no way in hell he was going to argue now.

“Okay,” he replied simply, letting her pull out of his arms to stand. He quickly took his glasses off, then followed her, heading toward the door while she went toward the bed. “I’m going to run down the hall to the other bathing room to clean up. I’ll be right back.”

She turned, frowning, and tilted her head to look at him. “Azriel, use your bathing room. I don’t mind.”

“Are you sure?”

“Yes, it doesn’t bother me,” she promised, walking to the bed while she spoke. “I know you use the other one to make me feel comfortable, but you don’t need to. Use the one in here.”

He blinked, his mind not reacting fast enough to stop the dumbfounded look that reached his face. Gwyn laughed, crawling under the covers and shooing him toward the bathing room. His body carried him without question, his mind still on her as he readied himself for bed, quickly washing up and stripping down to his undershorts. A moment later, he was striding back into the bedroom, easing his large body onto the bed next to Gwyn, his wings spread out behind him.

He propped himself on one elbow next to her, lightly placing his hand on her waist while she looked up at him, a sweet smile gracing those perfect lips. He couldn’t help himself, not between the exhaustion he felt and the aching in his undershorts weakening his self-control, so he leaned in for a kiss, groaning softly when she instantly opened for him. He fell into her, careful not to crush her but pressing her back into the pillows to fully claim her mouth.

She pulled away first, gasping while he trailed open mouthed kisses down her jaw, making his way to her collarbone before collapsing onto her chest. His head fell between her breasts, his eyes closing while he fisted her nightgown, chest heaving as he tried ignoring his aching cock. He was so damn tired, but he wanted her so fucking badly. It was all he could think of, and it was driving him mad.

“Azriel, are you okay?” She finally asked, stroking his hair softly. He opened his eyes and looked up to find her face flushed his favorite shade of pink. He propped himself on his elbow again, absently toying with the small row of buttons on the front of her nightgown that started at the top of her breasts and led down to just below her sternum.

“Yes, I’m just tired,” he mumbled, twisting the small, round buttons in his fingers to distract himself. She watched him quietly, seeming unaware of how much he was fighting his dwindling restraint. “Gwyn, I’ve been thinking about something.”

“Yes?”

He kept his eyes on the buttons, willing himself not to let any disappointment show if she said no to his request. He had been thinking about this for a while, but he hadn’t wanted to rush her. But exhaustion often turned him loose lipped around those he was comfortable with, and he was more than comfortable with Gwyn, so the words tumbled out.

“I was thinking that, if you wanted, you could start leaving a few things in my room. You’ve been spending so much time in here that I thought it might make things easier. So you don’t have to rush down to the library all the time.”

His voice had grown smaller with each word, fear trickling in as his fingers resolutely played with those damn buttons. She was silent for a long minute, each second echoing in his chest. Finally, just as he opened his mouth to apologize for pushing her, she spoke.

“Okay,” she said quietly, that simple word going straight to his heart. “Does it matter what I bring?”

“No, bring whatever you want,” he quickly assured her, grinning from ear to ear. “Bring whatever makes you feel comfortable, Bird.”

“Okay,” she said again, tracing his jaw with her fingertips. He shivered, his body warm and aching with need but also impossibly heavy from how tired he was. He just wanted one night with her where they were both well-rested and Gwyn was being as bold as she had been the other night. Was that too much to ask?

His eyes darted to her lips, but he forced himself to focus on the conversation. “I’ll clear out some space for you tomorrow. We can figure everything else out later.”

She smiled, her eyes sparkling in the moonlight streaming in from the windows. Gods, she was gorgeous; he didn’t think he’d ever get used to it. He turned back to the buttons, his mind fuzzy from exhaustion and arousal. He wasn’t normally this…frazzled, but she seemed to have that effect on him.

He chewed on his bottom lip, resolutely contemplating the buttons beneath his fingers but hopelessly getting distracted when he noticed her nipples become peaked beneath the thin fabric. He felt his control slipping, his head dipping unconsciously while she played with his hair, his cock throbbing almost painfully. All he could think about was bringing his mouth to her breasts and letting his tongue explore her until she was moaning beneath him.

When his shadows slithered toward her chest, his head snapped up, panic flaring as he realized what he had almost done. He hadn’t realized his shadows had been following the same direction his head had been falling, his thoughts leading them down the same path.

He frantically searched for something to distract himself again and latched on to the worst possible solution, one that he realized a moment too late would only make things worse. But the words were already coming out, his mouth betraying him.

“What is the purpose of these damn buttons?” He asked roughly, giving her nightgown a frustrated tug. He wasn’t sure why, but he found the buttons abominably frustrating. “They seem pointless.”

She giggled softly. “They’re decorative.”

He huffed. “That’s my point. What is the purpose of having buttons that aren’t meant to be unbuttoned?”

She gave him a patient smile, lightly tracing his jaw with her fingertips again before responding. “If they frustrate you that much, then unbutton them.”

His eyes shot to hers, unexpectedly finding her eyes full of heat. He swallowed, need and worry intermingling. “Are you sure?”

She nodded, smiling softly despite the fiery determination in her eyes. Any other protests he had died on his tongue, his breathing turning shallow as he tore his eyes away from her, slowly turning back to the buttons on her nightgown.

His fingers hovered above the top button, hesitating before gently popping it open, his eyes darting to hers while his hand drifted to the next button. When she didn’t protest, he popped the next one, then the next, just like she had done to him earlier, taking his time until he reached the last button just below her sternum. With one final tug, the top of her nightgown was completely undone, leaving him free to open it wider if he pleased. And oh did he want to.

He leaned farther up, shifting off his elbow to hover above her, holding himself up with one arm by her head to keep from crushing her. He watched her face carefully as his free hand twitched toward the now open line of buttons. He raised one eyebrow in question, waiting to see her reaction before he let his fingers move any farther. His shadows echoed his behavior, hovering restlessly above them, silently waiting for her nod of approval.

And then, she nodded slowly, not a single sign of hesitation on her face. He almost moaned in relief, pure male satisfaction flooding him as his eyes darted back down, drinking her in. He slowly peeled back the edges of her nightgown, folding one side over until it was barely covering her peaked nipple, then doing the same on the other side.

With her nightgown gaping open for him, he carefully brought his hand back up to her face, tracing her jaw with his fingers, then her lips. Working his way down until his fingertips were ghosting along her collarbone, dipping lower and lower until they reached the swell of her breasts. He sucked in a breath, savoring her soft skin beneath his hand.

His lips curved into a satisfied smirk when a flush spread across her chest, her breath coming in short gasps while he traced the outline of her breasts. He followed the curve of her body down, lightly running his fingers between her perfect mounds, taking his time until he reached the bottom of her sternum, finally snagging on her nightgown.

He studied her face for a moment again, but when she still didn’t say anything, he dipped his head. It was his mouth’s turn to explore. He smirked against her when she gasped at the first contact of his lips, goosebumps erupting where his breath tickled her skin. He looked up once more to make sure she was still okay, only to find her face full of curiosity and desire. It urged him on, making his cock ache even more and his lips move almost of their own accord.

He trailed hot, open-mouthed kisses down her collarbone, then followed the same path his fingers had mapped. His tongue darted out to trace the curve of her breasts, his teeth grazing across her skin occasionally. Her hands fisted his hair, her eyes snapping shut as he explored every inch of skin he could reach. Her scent wafted around him; the sweet fragrance almost intoxicating. Ocean and honey and apples; a scent that was utterly and uniquely her. He wanted more, needed more. His mind could focus on one thing and one thing only: her.

But for once, his shadows became the voice of reason, wrapping tightly around his wrist when his free hand moved toward her breast. He tried shaking them away, but they refused to heed his commands, holding his hand frozen above her heaving chest. You shouldn’t. It would break your promise to her. His shadows whispered, still holding his wrist in place.

As the words sunk in, he paused his movements, his mouth coming to a stop between her breasts, his promises from the other night hitting him like a tidal wave. Oh gods, his shadows were right. He had stopped her from doing similar things just a few days ago when she had been exhausted, promising her that they could explore more when they were both more awake. He hadn’t wanted her to regret anything, yet here he was, about to take things much farther while he was practically aching with exhaustion.

He stopped fighting his shadows, silently thanking them for helping him keep his promise to Gwyn. Fuck. What was he thinking? He shouldn’t have let things go this far, but he couldn’t think clearly. His mind was a mess of fatigue from days of working himself to the bone and unadulterated need. He was past the point of just wanting Gwyn; he neededher.

His shadows slowly released him, their relief mingling with his. He let his head fall to her chest for the second time that night, collapsing half on top of her, his wings falling to either side of him. He felt her hands fall to his shoulders but was unable to lift his face to look at her. He stayed where he was, breathing unevenly as he tried to calm himself.

“Azriel, what’s wrong?” She asked breathlessly. The scent of her arousal still wafted around him, clouding his senses further. But he clung to the promise he had made her, fisting his hand in her nightgown to keep himself grounded.

“Nothing. I’m fine, Bird. I promise,” he murmured, letting his eyes flutter shut. When he felt her stiffen slightly, words fell from his lips, the need to reassure her overtaking him. “Gwyn, don’t worry. I’m just tired. If I wasn’t so exhausted, I would ask if I could keep going, but I’m not sure that we should right now.”

“Oh, okay,” she murmured, her hands slowly moving to stroke his bare shoulders. He focused on her breathing, trying to calm his racing heart. “This seems to keep happening, doesn’t it?”

He raised his head enough to see her face only to find her with a small smile on her lips. He let out a breathless laugh, giving the valley between her breasts one more kiss before quickly buttoning her nightgown again. If he left it open, he wasn’t sure he’d survive the night without slipping a hand underneath.

“Yes, it does,” He chuckled, letting his body fall into the pillows next to her, burying his head in the crook of her neck, his wing falling across her body softly. “I’m sorry. I can be patient, Gwyn. I promise, I can be patient.”

She sighed, twining her fingers in his hair, her other hand stroking his back. “It’s okay. You’re tired. There’s nothing to apologize for. I trust you.” She paused, humming thoughtfully. “Maybe we should just schedule something.”

“Gwyn, honey, I’m going to need you to be more specific,” he groaned, his shadows settling in around him as his body slowly calmed down. “I’m all for planning ahead, but what exactly are we planning?”

She laughed against him. “Time. We’re planning for time. A time when we’re both awake, like you said the other night.”

“Then what?”

“Then…we see what happens, I guess,” she shyly explained, her skin growing warmer. “I’m not really sure what I want, Az. I just know I want…something more.”

He groaned in frustration against her neck, her words going straight to his already hard cock. Her hand froze on his back, her body going still before she quietly spoke.

“Is that bad?”

He raised his head to look at her again, an almost pained expression on his face. “No,” he sighed, his body warring with itself. “It’s perfect. And that’s the problem.”

“What do you mean?” She asked innocently, her eyes utterly trusting. He groaned again, falling back into her shoulder. She resumed stroking his back, waiting patiently for an answer.

“Gwyneth, what I mean is that you are making me extremely aroused, and I don’t think that’s a good idea right now,” he carefully explained, huffing a laugh when she made a little “Oh” sound. “Bird, how about the day after tomorrow? We can figure out the details then.”

He wasn’t entirely sure what those details meant, but he knew his imagination would likely run wild for the next two days.

“Umm, okay, the day after tomorrow. It’s a date,” she agreed, her body relaxing into the pillows. They fell silent, but not for long. Soon, he realized there was no way he could fall asleep without some sort of distraction. Dirty thoughts about Gwyn he could deal with, but having her body so close and feeling how deliciously warm and pliant she was was too much for him to handle.

“Gwyn?” He groaned once again.

“Yes?” She laughed.

“Distract me. Please.”

“How?”

“I don’t know. Talk to me. Tell me about a book. Ask me more sex questions. Anything. Please.” He didn’t care if he sounded desperate because he was desperate. He needed to talk. It didn’t matter what it was about.

She hummed quietly. “Won’t sex questions make it worse?”

“No. Thinking about sex is far easier than thinking about how hard I am right now,” he responded, words once again leaving him without thought. This was starting to get dangerous; he had completely stopped caring what came out of his mouth. Gods he needed sleep.

She giggled but didn’t comment on how loose lipped he had become. She contemplated his request for a long moment, but finally indulged him, seeming unfazed by her own question. If the topic made her nervous, she didn’t show it.

“Okay, I’ll ask a sex question,” she chirped. He closed his eyes, letting himself relax into her while he focused on her question. “I know you’ve probably done a lot of things, but what is one thing you’ve always wanted to do with a partner but have never been able to?”

He grinned against her skin, an answer already at the tip of his tongue, but he wanted to tease her first. “I’m not sure you’re ready for this answer, Bird. It’s quite scandalous.”

She tsked, poking his shoulder. “Tell me. You’re the one who wanted to be distracted.”

He chuckled, the sound coming out on a yawn. “Okay, fine. I’ve always wanted to make love to someone at that lake I took you to.”

She gasped quietly in shock, her fingers pausing on his skin for a moment before resuming their movements. “Really? Then…why haven’t you…done it? It doesn’t seem that wild. Is it?”

“No, it’s not that wild,” he chuckled, amused by her utter placidness at the idea of having sex in the open by a lake. He would most definitely have to explore that later. “But I don’t want it to be with just anyone. Much like the meadow you like so much, that lake is special to me. If I make love to someone there, I want it to be with someone who matters. Someone who loves it as much as I do. Like you.”

“Oh,” she said simply, her fingers absently grazing dangerously close to the top of his wings as she thought about his answer. He stiffened, knowing he would fully lose all restraint if she touched him there. He needed her to keep talking, or to make him keep talking. Anything to distract him.

He opened his mouth to speak, to draw her attention elsewhere, but it was too late. Her fingers made contact with his wings, gently tracing a line along the top edge, following the curve from the tip down toward his back. His body reacted before he could think, delicious waves of pleasure washing over him as a sound somewhere between a moan and a gasp escaped him.

“Gwyn…” he breathed, trying to find the words to tell her why this was a terrible idea, but failing miserably. His words died on his tongue as her hand kept moving, his resistance crumbling into dust.

“Hmm?” She murmured, still focused on what she was doing. She paused for a moment, then added. “Your wings feel like leathery suede. I’d always wondered what they felt like. They’re so smooth.”

He huffed a laugh, desperately clinging to his last shreds of sanity as her fingers kept gliding down, innocently exploring his wings. His cock was throbbing with every stroke of her fingers, but he knew that if she reached the spot near the base of his wings, right above his shoulder blades, he would come undone completely. But he couldn’t move, the softness of her touch was sending him barreling toward ecstasy faster than any lover he had ever had.

His body refused to cooperate, leaving him no choice but to turn to his shadows. He silently commanded them to stop her, urging them to be as gentle as possible. A few more seconds and he was going to fall over the edge, the pleasure building in his body was already almost unbearable. His shadows heeded his command, swirling around Gwyn’s wrist as they often did. Normally, their movements were playful, but this time, they gently tugged on her, pushing her hand away from his wings.

She gasped, snapping her hands away from him in shock. His shadows instantly retreated, worriedly watching her. Azriel slowly pushed himself up until he was hovering above her, his breathing ragged from the pleasure still lingering from her touch. Her face was shocked, but not fearful, which he silently thanked the cauldron for.

“Are…are you okay?” She quietly asked, her eyes searching his face. He breathed deeply, trying to shake off the haze of pleasure she had accidentally caused. “Your shadows have never done that before.”

“I’m sorry, it won’t happen again,” he promised her, brushing his thumb along her jaw. She frowned, her nose scrunching in the adorable way that he knew meant she was concentrating. “Umm…has Emerie or Nesta ever told you about Illyrian wings?”

She frowned. “Just about the wingspan thing,” she replied, blushing slightly. “Did I do something wrong, Azriel? I…I was just curious what your wings felt like.”

“Gwyn, no, you didn’t do anything wrong, I promise,” he said quickly, shaking his head vigorously. She searched his face again, waiting. “I’m…my wings are just very sensitive, Bird.”

“Oh,” she said, a slight furrow between her brows. He swallowed rapidly, trying to clear his head so he could focus. This would be so much easier if he wasn’t exhausted. “Did I hurt you?”

“What? No!” He blurted, shaking his head again. “It’s not sensitive like that, Gwyn. Well, they can be, but…damnit I don’t know how to explain this to you.”

He brushed a hand through his hair in irritation, falling onto one elbow next to her. She leaned up, studying him patiently. She softly pulled his hand away from his face, twining her fingers with his and holding it between them.

“Azriel, just tell me, please,” she pressed gently, her teal eyes holding nothing but concern. “I don’t understand, but I want to. You can tell me, it’s okay.”

He groaned, chewing on his bottom lip. She waited for him to gather his thoughts, her eyes never leaving his as mulled over his words. Finally, with a squeeze of her hand, he spoke.

“Gwyn, Illyrian Wings, when touched in the right way, can be a pleasure point,” he slowly said, watching as her eyes went wide. He forced himself to keep talking, ignoring the blush that crept up her neck. “For most Illyrians, if they trust their partner enough and their wings are stimulated in the correct way, they can reach…climax simply from the touch of their lover.”

Her jaw dropped, her blush fully coloring her cheeks now. She opened her mouth to speak, then snapped it shut, a nervous giggle erupting from her lips. He quietly chuckled, relaxing slightly as he forced himself to finish his explanation.

“While it’s normal for Illyrians to have sensitive wings,” he began, sucking in a deep breath before finishing his sentence. “Mine are more sensitive than average…which is why my shadows stopped you from continuing what you were doing.”

Her eyes had become impossibly large, her free hand coming up to her mouth as he finished his explanation. He held his breath, waiting for her to respond and hoping she understood what he was trying to say. Her hand came down from her face, her mouth once again opening before snapping shut again. He waited anxiously, his heart beating rapidly.

“So, I…I almost made you…climax?” She finally asked hesitantly, another nervous giggle escaping her when he slowly nodded. “Oh my gods, I’m so sorry. I didn’t mean to. I…I just…oh gods. I can’t believe I didn’t know. I’m sorry.”

He laughed, relaxing once he realized she wasn’t upset. “It’s okay, honey,” he promised her, squeezing her hand again. “You didn’t know. I should have told you. I…I liked it, but it’s not the best idea right now.”

She nodded in agreement, smiling shyly at him. “I’ll be more careful with your wings, Az,” she responded, tugging him closer as she fell onto her back. “But…am I allowed to touch your wings…eventually?”

Her question almost stunned him. “I…I’d like that,” he blinked, his body frozen halfway to his previous position by her shoulder. “If you want to, of course. It’s not something I would expect you to do, Gwyn. Not if you don’t want to.”

“I know,” she smiled, gently releasing his hand and tugging on his arm to bring him back down to her. He obediently lowered his body down, nestling his head in the crook of her neck and draping one wing over her again. “But…I want to. Not yet, but eventually. Will you teach me, when I’m ready?”

“Of course,” he promised slowly, his heart pounding in his chest. How was she real? She was so curious and determined and fearless. He adored her so damn much. “I’ll teach you anything you want.”

She hummed in satisfaction, settling herself into a comfortable position beneath him. He closed his eyes, trying to focus on anything besides the continued throbbing of his cock. He needed a distraction again, something to take his mind off the intense pleasure she had inadvertently given him. He had gotten dangerously close to an orgasm, and now he was far too aroused to fall asleep, even with his body aching from exhaustion.

“Do you have any other sex questions?” He playfully asked, trying to sound as unaffected as possible, but needing her to make him talk again. Her hand thankfully fell back to his shoulder, absently soothing him while a soft humming coming from her as she considered his request. He suddenly had the urge to sing, but he held back, not wanting to startle her from her gentle tune. It sounded like a lullaby, but he wasn’t quite sure. As she continued humming, his eyes grew heavier, his body slowly relaxing completely.

“If you could do anything to me right now, no holding back, what would you do?” She quietly asked after a minute, only pausing whatever tune she was humming long enough to ask the question. His mouth opened without thinking, words falling from his tongue. He was too entranced by her perfect lullaby, even if she was only humming. He could only imagine what it would be like if she were to sing it.

“Hmm, I’d take you back to that grove of trees, the one by the estate we’ve been monitoring,” he murmured, unsure if she was even listening. She kept humming softly, lulling him toward sleep even while he kept speaking. “I would press you against that tree, then kiss you. Thoroughly tasting you before I lifted you up, wrapping those long legs around me, preferably bare this time. And there would be no interruptions. It would just be us.”

He paused for a moment, his mind drifting into his own imagination. He was lost in his dream, not even aware if he was still speaking or if it was all in his head, a blissful product of his thoughts.

“I’d keep kissing you, not quite pressing my body into yours until you moved first. I’d wait until you pressed into me before I rocked my hips. Then I’d grind against you, bringing you close to the edge, but not quite sending you over. You would beg me for more, and I would give it to you. I’d sink my fingers into you, fucking you with them until you were coming undone. Then, after you were fully satisfied and ready for me, I would…”

*************************************

Tags: @chloepereyra|@lovelyladymayyy|@gojosatorurailmepls|@valkygwyn|@remellarome|@inejjg|@azrielsgirl|@gisellefigue08|@acourtofmidnightsnacks|@67impalagirl13|@illyrian-valkyrie|@arinbelle|@amandapearls|@bittermuire|@cauldron-blessedarcheron1|@starbornsinger|@princessofmerchants|@allygug|@zooni92802|@molinden|@tallyovie|@siyeoncruella|@thelittlebookishcorner|@zerxfaithinhumanity|@words-are-what-i-hide-behind|@vasudharaghavan|@gwynkyrie|@niytavia|@fairytamy|@madie2200|@icarusave|@spookylightkidranch|@mirubyai|@gwynsazriel|@live-the-fangirl-life|@bookprofessor|@deedz-thrillerkilller16 |@positivewitch|@cursebreaker29|@zullyluly|@violentdelightshaveviolentends12|@faithisilliterate|@b00kishwh0re|@spookyfreakturtlefire|@inejbrekkxr|@whereisvaughan|@aelingalathyniusrailme |@secretlovelybeauty|@gwynrielsupremacist|@bookologist|@unpopularcharacterstan|@moodymelanist|@discorrdiia|@generalnesta|@flora-shadowshine|@amaranthas-whore|@georgialeighc13|@selfdestructionfetish|@hlizr50|@sia-r|@gpxxx|@annikaschwietz|@rewiue

Title: Life of a Spy

Azriel and Gwyn return from their spy mission exhausted and just a little bit needy after the night’s activities.

Note: Didn’t want to wait another day, so I decided to post early! Hope you all enjoy this little scene!

If you would like to be tagged in updates, please let me know!

Read on AO3

Azriel x Gwyn

Warnings: Fluff, with a touch of steam.

Word Count: 2,438

Masterlist

Azriel slowly carried Gwyn to his bedroom when they arrived back at the House of Wind. She was already half asleep, her arms clinging to his neck and her legs wrapped around his waist, her head drooping down to his shoulder. He couldn’t blame her; he was equally exhausted. He hadn’t been planning on staying out for surveillance all night, but it was simply what happened sometimes.

When he reached his room, his shadows dutifully opened his door, allowing him to walk in without releasing Gwyn. He didn’t bother turning on the fae lights, since the sun was beginning to rise. Instead, he instructed his shadows to pull the drapes closed across the windows, turning the room dark again.

Sleep. His shadows instructed, swirling around him and the priestess in his arms protectively. I will, he promised. Just as soon as he got Gwyn to bed. His shadows immediately swooped in to help, pulling back the covers on the bed so he could easily set her down. She released him without a fuss, blinking slowly as she scooted back toward the pillows.

“Go to sleep, I’ll be there in a minute,” he quietly promised, his body growing heavier by the second from exhaustion. He turned away, too tired to wait for her response before he started readying himself for bed. He headed for his desk, already unbuckling Truth-Teller from his side, but Gwyn’s soft voice halted him.

“Az, wait,” she called, rubbing her eyes, her reddish-brown hair coming undone from its braid. “Could you help me? Please.”

He bit back a sigh, his shoulders sagging. He adored her, but right now even the thought of getting himself ready for bed was daunting, let alone helping her. He shook his head, attempting to banish his fatigue before walking back to Gwyn. It wasn’t her fault he was so tired.

“What do you need, Bird?” He asked, meeting her expectant stare. Every fiber of his being was screaming at him to just fall into bed next to her, but he knew she would end up half on top of him, and his siphons didn’t make good pillows.

“I can’t sleep in these leathers, but I can’t get the buckles right now,” she explained apologetically, her own exhaustion showing in the defeated tone of her voice. With that small change in her tone, every complaint he had crumbled.

“Gwyn, honey, I’m not sure I understand what you’re asking,” he admitted, running his hands through his hair. Gods, this had been such a good night, even with the unexpected all-night aspect of it, but he was so damn tired.

“Help me change, please,” she pleaded, her long lashes drooping closed even as she tugged fruitlessly at her boots. If he had been more alert, he might have questioned if she was sure, but he was too tired to think, so he simply sat down, pulling her legs into his lap in the process.

He slowly unlaced her boots, pulling them off one by one and letting his shadows carry them to his wardrobe. Then came the socks, followed by the dagger he had had her sheath to her side earlier that evening. He thought that was all she had wanted, so he moved to stand, but she held up her arms.

“Az, help, please,” she pressed, her bottom lip jutting out adorably. He froze, the realization of just how much help she wanted hitting him. For a moment, he considered refusing, if only because she wasn’t entirely coherent, but the thought immediately died on his tongue when a small whine left her lips, telling him just how tired she was.

He instantly sat back down, reaching for her without any further hesitation. She sighed, her shoulders sagging in relief when his hands found the straps on her leathers. He had worn leathers long enough to be able to remove them swiftly, even when he was beyond exhausted.

When he had all the straps undone, he hesitated for a small moment before lifting the top over her head, but his resistance once again died when he looked at her. She was trying, and failing, to keep her eyes open. His beautiful priestess; utterly drained from her first proper spy mission.

He took a deep breath, willing himself not to think about everything they had done tonight while he stripped off her leathers. He slowly lifted the top, Gwyn raising her arms obediently to help him, his hands gliding along her bare skin as he undressed her. He was suddenly far more alert than he had been a moment before. She felt so damn good.

A moment later, he had the top off, exposing her almost bare torso to him, nothing but the band around her breasts hiding anything. He swallowed several times, images from earlier flooding his mind despite his attempts to ignore them. He still hadn’t completely recovered from everything that had happened earlier.

He had been overjoyed that she was being so openly curious and…bold with him, but it had been a test of his self-control like nothing he had faced before. To have her pressing her body into his, the sweet scent of her arousal making him almost dizzy with need - it was enough to bring him to his knees. He desperately wished they hadn’t been interrupted; he wanted to know what she had been about to do next.

But he couldn’t go back now, so he shoved the thoughts away, focusing on the present. Gwyn needed him, and that was all that mattered. They could explore everything else later.

“Do you want help with your pants too or?” He quietly asked, letting his words hang in the air while his eyes dipped to the buckles at her waist. He had never imagined the first time he stripped her to be like this, yet, somehow, it seemed to suit them. She always surprised him, and this was no different.

“Yes, please,” she nodded, stifling a yawn with her hand. He gave her a crooked grin, his heart aching fiercely. He had wanted this, to have her in his room, to see the drowsy and ruffled side of her more often. And now he had it, more often than he had ever expected. It was a gift, everything she offered him was a gift, and he cherished every second of it.

He gave her a long look, then got to work on her pants, undoing the buckles easily. This time, he didn’t hesitate, quickly helping her shimmy out of the tight leathers until she was left in nothing but her underthings. She smiled at him gratefully, not seeming to care that his eyes were roaming lazily across her bare body.

“Thank you,” she yawned, snapping his attention back to her face. He was certain he was forgetting something, but he couldn’t think, not with her sitting in his bed almost naked. He wanted every night to be like this.

“Uh, you’re welcome,” he replied breathlessly, leaping up from the bed and striding to his desk to remove his siphons. He heard her shifting around, but didn’t look, needing a moment to calm himself. When he had removed his weapons and siphons, he walked to his wardrobe, stripping off his own leathers as quickly as possible.

When he walked back out, ready to throw himself on the bed and sleep the day away, he froze, his cock going almost instantly hard in his undershorts. Now he knew what he had forgotten. Pajamas. She needed pajamas.

Gwyn was sitting in the exact place he had left her, idly combing through her hair with her fingers, her face turned away from him. But she had removed the band from around her breasts, leaving her entire torso bare. He could see her peaked nipples from where he stood, the ache in his cock growing steadily.

On any other night, he would have welcomed her sleeping topless next to him, but he didn’t have the energy for self-control at the moment. He forced himself to move, stepping back into his wardrobe and grabbing one of his sweaters before walking out again.

This time, she looked up, her face utterly peaceful and trusting. He couldn’t stop his eyes from darting back to her breasts again as he walked to the bed, biting his lip as he imagined putting his hands on her perfect mounds and sucking on those pert nipples. Fuck. He needed sleep. And a cold bath. A very cold bath.

She smiled innocently at him when he sat on the edge of the bed next to her, obediently lifting her arms when she saw the sweater in his hands. He pulled it over her head quickly, biting the inside of his cheek to keep from groaning when his fingers grazed the side of her breasts. Cauldron help him, he wanted her. All of her. And after tonight, his restraint had crumbled.

“Comfortable?” He asked, wanting to make sure she had everything she needed before he got into bed. Once his head hit that pillow, he wasn’t leaving for a while.

“Yes, thank you, Az,” Gwyn grinned, leaning up to kiss him. Her lips glided smoothly with his, her hands roaming his chest. He groaned softly, opening his mouth for her and letting her take the lead while his hands gripped her waist, tugging her against him.

She pulled him deeper into the kiss, her arms twining around his back as her fingertips scraped gently across his skin. He leaned forward, one hand dropping down to pull one of her legs around him, allowing her to press her body firmly into him. He could feel her peaked nipples through the fabric of her sweater, his hands hesitantly slipping down to stroke her thighs, slowly gliding up to the edge of her panties.

Her hips bucked ever so slightly toward him, her core not quite meeting his due to the position of her other leg, but he noticed the movement all the same. Every logical thought left him. The only thing he could think of was her. His hands slipped to the edge of her sweater, a groan escaping him as her tongue explored his mouth eagerly.

When she moved her other leg to straddle him, his eyes shot open. No. No, this was happening too fast. Gwyn wasn’t thinking straight. She was exhausted and, if the way his body felt was any indication, she was still needy and aching from their earlier activities. As much as he wanted this, he couldn’t let her keep going. Not like this. When she finally let him have her, in whatever way that was, she needed to be fully lucid. Not fatigued and almost incoherent.

He grabbed her leg, stopping her from straddling his lap. He let himself have one last moment of her mouth on his, savoring her taste, then pulled away, dropping his head to her shoulder. She gasped, clinging to his back as they caught their breaths.

“Gwyn, honey, I am so sorry, but I think we should slow down,” he finally forced out, lifting his head to meet her confused gaze. He wanted to take back what he had said, but behind the confusion, he could see her fatigue. As much as he hated it, he had done the right thing. “We’re both exhausted, Bird. Neither of us are thinking clearly right now.”

She blinked, slowly processing his words. He waited anxiously, praying she would understand. When she finally nodded softly, he breathed a sigh of relief.

“You’re right,” she slowly said, brushing her fingers along his jaw. “I…I don’t…I’m not sure what came over me, Az. I…I’m - ”

“Gwyn, stop, it’s okay,” he assured her, stroking her leg. “I understand. I feel the same way.”

“You do?” She questioned, rubbing her eyes. He nodded, massaging her leg in soothing circles. “I…I just wanted you. When I kissed you, I just wanted you.”

“I know, honey, I know. I want you too,” he promised, shifting forward so he could lay her back in the bed. She didn’t argue, letting him move her under the covers. When she was comfortable, he went on. “Gwyn, we’re both tired. And we’re both more than a little aroused. It’s normal to react like that, but I don’t want to risk you regretting anything we do together.”

“You’re right,” she finally smiled, watching as he crawled over her to lay beside her. “I’m not thinking straight. I’m sorry.”

He settled next to her, lying on his back as she shifted toward him. “You have nothing to apologize for, Gwyn,” he reassured her, pulling her against his chest. “I want you more than anything, Bird. I understand what you’re feeling.”

He felt her relax against him, the lingering tension in her body easing, telling him his words had hit their target. Good, he thought. He didn’t want her worrying that she had done something wrong. He was a willing participate in everything she had done.

She brought a hand up to his neck, absently running her fingers along his throat. “Az, when we’re not so tired, do you think we could maybe…try other things?”

“Of course, Bird,” he agreed. There was nothing he would enjoy more than letting her do whatever she wanted with him; he would happily keep this promise. “Anything you want.”

She hummed her satisfaction, the sound vibrating through him, going straight to his still hardened cock. Gods he hated that he had to refuse her, yet, at the same time, he knew it was the right thing to do. He could already feel his body relaxing toward sleep, and her breathing was growing softer by the minute.

“Az?” She murmured, her hand gliding down his bare chest.

“Hmm?”

“Thank you for tonight.”

He softly chuckled. “You’re welcome. I’m sorry if it didn’t turn out quite how you had hoped.”

“It’s okay, I don’t mind,” she replied, leaning up to see his face, her eyelids heavy with drowsiness. “Your job isn’t exactly predictable. I understand.”

“That’s the life of a spy, I suppose,” he said wryly, stroking her back gently.

She giggled, leaning her forehead against his. “It’s okay. It’s not that bad as long as I get to spend time with you.”

He slowly smiled, pulling her down for a gentle kiss. “You’re right, it’s not that bad when you’re with me.”

She gave him one more soft kiss in response, then settled against his chest once more. He wrapped his arms around her, closing his eyes and letting her soft breathing lull him to sleep, his shadows keeping watch as they slowly drifted off together.

***************************************************

Tags: @chloepereyra|@lovelyladymayyy|@gojosatorurailmepls | @valkygwyn | @remellarome|@inejjg|@azrielsgirl|@gisellefigue08|@acourtofmidnightsnacks|@67impalagirl13|@illyrian-valkyrie|@arinbelle|@amandapearls|@bittermuire|@cauldron-blessedarcheron1|@starbornsinger|@princessofmerchants|@allygug|@zooni92802|@molinden|@tallyovie|@siyeoncruella|@thelittlebookishcorner|@zerxfaithinhumanity|@words-are-what-i-hide-behind|@vasudharaghavan|@gwynkyrie|@niytavia|@fairytamy|@madie2200|@icarusave|@spookylightkidranch|@mirubyai|@gwynsazriel|@live-the-fangirl-life|@bookprofessor|@deedz-thrillerkilller16|@positivewitch|@cursebreaker29|@zullyluly|@violentdelightshaveviolentends12|@faithisilliterate|@b00kishwh0re|@spookyfreakturtlefire|@inejbrekkxr|@whereisvaughan|@aelingalathyniusrailme |@secretlovelybeauty|@gwynrielsupremacist|@bookologist|@unpopularcharacterstan|@moodymelanist|@discorrdiia|@generalnesta|@flora-shadowshine|@amaranthas-whore|@georgialeighc13|@selfdestructionfetish|@hlizr50|@sia-r|@gpxxx|@annikaschwietz|@rewiue

Azriel tries to help a certain priestess leave the library and see the city with the help of his shadows.

If you haven’t read the Gwyn POV of this scene, I recommend checking it out. You can find it here!

Note: Next week I will start posting new scenes for A Song of Shadows again! It may be inconsistent because of school, but I will do my best to keep updating things while I am in my program.

If you would like to be tagged in updates, please let me know!

Read on AO3

Azriel X Gwyn

Warnings: Fluff

Word Count: 947

Masterlist

Azriel stood silently in the darkness, concealed by his shadows just inside the doorway that led out to Velaris. His eyes were trained solely on the figure before him, watching, waiting. He had lost track of how long he had stood there, hoping she would open the door, that she would find the courage to walk out into the world.

He had followed her down the stairs in curiosity, not wanting to disturb whatever she was doing but unable to deny the pull he felt whenever she was near. He couldn’t stay away. Even now, when he knew he was spying, he couldn’t bring himself to leave her.

Her fingers hovered mere inches from the door, her steady breathing the only sound in the darkness. He stood motionless, afraid one movement would give away his presence. Yet, he couldn’t deny his shadows from swirling toward her, whispering silent encouragements that only he could hear. Go, they whispered to her. You can do it.

Azriel wished he could help her, to take her hand and walk out into the city with her, but he knew his unexpected presence might startle her, and he refused to risk frightening her when she was so close. Just a turn of the knob and she would be outside, the lights of Velaris greeting her like an old friend.

The longer they stood there, the more Azriel loosened his hold on his shadows, allowing them to go to her. Every second felt like an eternity as he watched her, his heart aching to reach out, to touch her. She was so close. His shadows whispered the words he couldn’t, silently urging her forward. You can do it, they promised. We’re with you.

The shadows became a steady pulse around her, their whispers a silent chorus in the darkness, gently holding her hand in a way their master wasn’t yet able to. Finally, after what felt like forever and yet no time at all, he saw her slowly inch closer to the door, only a step away now. And still, the shadows whispered, Go, we’re with you.

For a moment, he feared she was about to turn around. His breath caught, his arm stretching toward her unconsciously, every fiber of his being aching to tell her that she wasn’t alone, that she could do this. Just as he almost touched her shoulder, her fingers touched the knob, slowly wrapping around the cold metal.

He let out a silent thank you to the gods, joy flooding him as his shadows eagerly cheered her on. She was so close, only a breath away now, one simple movement of her wrist. Yes, do it, the shadows urged, swirling around her in comforting circles. We’re with you.

She slowly turned the handle, letting the door swing towards her as Azriel felt his heart burst with pride. She had done it; she had opened the door. The city was right in front of her, its lights calling, beckoning her to come see. To experience. To live. His shadows softly nudged her from behind, a silent promise echoing through them, assuring her they were still there.

She took a deep breath, then stepped out, unaware of the swirling shadows around her, or of the shadowsinger quietly following behind her. He kept a safe distance, watching with joy and pride as she took in the city.

The lights of Velaris seemed to draw her farther and farther into the city, her face filled with wonder as she looked around her in awe. He had never seen such uninhibited joy and life before. He couldn’t help but match the broad smile on her face with one of his own, his heart glowing with something he couldn’t quite name.

She wandered for hours, a swirl of shadows never far behind. He knew, somewhere deep down inside, that she would return to the city, that she would no longer keep hiding in the library, and he wanted to be a part of that journey. For whatever, unknown reason, he wanted to be by her side as she explored, as she lived.

As she finally made her way home, he felt an odd sense of serenity, as though her happiness had spilled over and become one with his joy. He felt lighter, calmer, like a restless part of him had finally found peace as he watched this beautiful and strong female discover the wonders of the place he called home.

He paused a few paces away from her as she reached for the door back to the library, his shadows swirling between them. She turned around for a moment, seeming to take in the sprawling city one last time before her eyes fell on the spot where he was still hidden.

If he didn’t know better, he would have thought she could see him, or perhaps sense him, but his shadows prevented that from being possible. Yet, he couldn’t stop his heart from racing when a small smile formed on her lips, an inquisitive look sparkling in her eyes. He stared back, unconsciously taking a step toward her, drawn to her as he always was.

His shadows stopped him, holding him back even while they radiated joy at seeing her so peaceful and content. She looked in his direction a moment longer, then shook her head and turned back to the door, walking into the library and leaving him staring after her with a heart full of happiness and pride…and something more, that feeling he couldn’t name yet.

But if she had turned around, she would have noticed wings slowly appear in the shadows, followed by their owner, quietly watching her disappear into the darkness.

*******************************************

Tags: @chloepereyra|@lovelyladymayyy|@gojosatorurailmepls|@valkygwyn|@remellarome|@inejjg|@azrielsgirl|@gisellefigue08|@acourtofmidnightsnacks|@67impalagirl13|@illyrian-valkyrie|@arinbelle|@amandapearls|@bittermuire|@cauldron-blessedarcheron1|@starbornsinger|@princessofmerchants|@allygug|@zooni92802|@molinden|@tallyovie|@siyeoncruella|@thelittlebookishcorner|@zerxfaithinhumanity|@words-are-what-i-hide-behind|@vasudharaghavan|@gwynkyrie|@niytavia|@fairytamy|@madie2200|@icarusave|@spookylightkidranch|@mirubyai|@gwynsazriel|@live-the-fangirl-life|@bookprofessor|@ddsworldofbooks|@positivewitch|@cursebreaker29|@zullyluly|@violentdelightshaveviolentends12|@faithisilliterate|@b00kishwh0re|@spookyfreakturtlefire|@inejbrekkxr|@whereisvaughan|@aelingalathyniusrailme |@secretlovelybeauty|@gwynrielsupremacist|@bookologist|@unpopularcharacterstan|@moodymelanist|@discorrdiia|@generalnesta|@flora-shadowshine|@amaranthas-whore|@georgialeighc13|@selfdestructionfetish|@hlizr50|@sia-r|@gpxxx|@annikaschwietz|@rewiue 

As Azriel sees Gwyn fall in battle, causing something to snap in his chest.

Note: Option 1 from my poll yesterday won, so here is that one shot!

If you would like to be tagged in updates, please let me know!

Read on AO3

Azriel x Gwyn

Warnings: Mentions of blood. Angsty fluff.

Word Count: 1,195

Masterlist

Azriel plunged deeper into the battlefield, downing enemy after enemy as he fought toward Beron’s internal lines, keeping a watchful eye on the two Valkyrie who fought close to him.

He hated the idea of Gwyn and Emerie, or even Nesta for that matter, joining the battle, but he knew better than to argue with them. He had trained the girls himself; they could hold their own. But even knowing that, his heart had still been an aching mess of worry from the moment Gwyn had dawned armor and set out with him.

But the priestess had proven she was more than capable of handling herself, managing to keep up with him as he tore through Beron’s soldiers with a fury he normally kept well-contained. But this wasn’t a regular battle. He had Gwyn with him, and Emerie and Nesta and the rest of his family. He couldn’t lose this fight, no matter how many extra soldiers and tricks Beron had bargained Koschei for. There was too much at stake.

Luckily, Rhys and Cassian, who were towards the front with the rest of the group while Azriel fought from the side, had thinned the army coming at them. Just as soon as Rhys made it to Beron, this battle would end. They just needed to last a few more minutes. He could feel Rhys drawing closer, Lucien and Eris flanking him.

A moment later, the waves of armies stopped; whatever spell Koshchei had helped Beron use to keep the soldiers mindless had broken. The remains of the enemy slowly fell to the ground, unconscious or willingly surrendering. Only a stray soldier here and there who was more loyal to Beron than they were Eris still gave fight, and they would be quickly taken care of.

Azriel felled one more stray soldier, then turned to find Gwyn, who had fallen slightly behind with Emerie. Her head whipped toward him, a grin spreading across her face as the battle died down around them, but she turned a moment too late. And he was too far away.

A stray soldier lunged from the ground toward Gwyn, thrusting his sword into her side a second before Emerie could deliver the killing blow.

A scream tore its way out of Azriel’s throat, his shadows flooding the battlefield as he watched his worst nightmare happen right in front of him. The blade tore through Gwyn, bringing her to her knees with a look of shock as Emerie killed the male who had executed the blow.

Time seemed to stop as something in Azriel’s chest snapped so hard it almost brought him to his knees. He mindlessly rushed toward Gwyn, slaughtering anyone and anything that dared get in his way. He reached her in seconds, the frantic thrumming still screaming at him as he took her in his arms. But he couldn’t pay attention to it yet, not while Gwyn was hurt.

“Gwyn, honey, it’s gonna be okay. I can fix this. You’re gonna be all right,” he promised, cradling her while he tried assessing her wounds, grateful when Mor and Nesta arrived and began tending to her as well.

He was fairly sure tears were streaming down his face, but he didn’t care. All that mattered was stopping the flow of blood that was pouring from Gwyn’s side. He needed her to live. Needed her to walk off this battlefield with him in one piece.

He didn’t hear anything the others were saying as he held Gwyn in his arms, cradling her face while they worked to heal her. His shadows hovered protectively, doing their best to soothe Gwyn while he kept murmuring to her, trying to get her to look at him, to keep her eyes open.

When she finally met his gaze, her teal eyes sparkling despite her injury, he finally understood the wild thrumming in his chest, the one that seemed to be singing a word to him over and over again. The word that explained the sharp snap in his chest he had felt when she had fallen to the ground. Mate. Gwyn was his mate.

“Az, I’m okay, it’s nothing,” Gwyn weakly smiled at him, softly cupping his cheek as Mor, and now Feyre, healed her wounds, Nesta and Emerie anxiously hovering close by. “I’ll be healed in no time at all. Then I can go back to kicking your ass in training.”

He let out a strangled sound, half laugh half sob, unable to think of anything beside the word that kept flooding his mind. “You’re my mate,” he choked out, a sob wracking his body as he looked at her. “We’re mates. You’re my mate.”

She laughed, the sound easing the terror in his heart. That was the sound of his Gwyn. That was the lovely, musical laughter that always made him smile. She was going to be all right; he wasn’t going to lose her.

She brushed the tears away from his cheek, flashing a smile that was only for him. “It’s about time, Shadowsinger,” she murmured, her face softening as she studied him.

He raised an eyebrow at her, his throat too tight to form words. She laughed again, her nose crinkling, her face shining with love as she held his gaze.

“I’ve known for a while, I was just waiting for you to figure it out,” she explained, her words somehow not shocking him as much as he expected. A part of him felt like he already knew, but his heart had just needed an extra shove to understand. “You’re not mad, are you? That I didn’t tell you?”

He slowly shook his head, darting his eyes down to make sure her wound was almost healed. To his relief, Feyre and Mor had sealed the injury and were now kneeling next to Emerie and Nesta, the four of them watching as he held his mate closely, the battle ended.

He turned back to Gwyn, the tightness in his chest finally easing, replaced with a steady thrumming, an almost familiar melody humming through him. His shadows echoed the tune, swirling around them with a mixture of joy and a fierce protectiveness that was reserved only for him – and now his mate. His lovely Gwyn.

He carefully lifted her as he stood, preparing to take her home so they could see a healer just in case any of her wounds had done extra damage. She watched him patiently, waiting for him to find the words to speak.

“I’m not mad, my love,” he finally whispered, the tears that escaped his eyes now ones of joy. “You’re my mate. How could I ever be mad at you?”

“I love you,” Gwyn responded simply, leaning her forehead against his, her words for him and him alone. “And I am honored to be your mate.”

“I love you too, but…” he trailed off, losing himself in those teal eyes as he began to winnow them home, his focus entirely on Gwyn. “The honor is all mine, my love. My mate.”

She tilted her head back, then flashed that gorgeous smile again before softly kissing him, letting him sink into her as they disappeared into the shadows.

*******************************************

Tags: @chloepereyra|@lovelyladymayyy|@gojosatorurailmepls|@valkygwyn|@remellarome|@inejjg|@azrielsgirl|@gisellefigue08|@acourtofmidnightsnacks|@67impalagirl13|@illyrian-valkyrie|@arinbelle|@amandapearls|@bittermuire|@cauldron-blessedarcheron1|@starbornsinger|@princessofmerchants|@allygug|@zooni92802|@molinden|@tallyovie|@siyeoncruella|@thelittlebookishcorner|@zerxfaithinhumanity|@words-are-what-i-hide-behind|@vasudharaghavan|@gwynkyrie|@niytavia|@fairytamy|@madie2200|@icarusave|@spookylightkidranch|@mirubyai|@gwynsazriel|@live-the-fangirl-life|@bookprofessor|@ddsworldofbooks|@positivewitch|@cursebreaker29|@zullyluly|@violentdelightshaveviolentends12|@faithisilliterate|@b00kishwh0re|@spookyfreakturtlefire|@inejbrekkxr|@whereisvaughan|@aelingalathyniusrailme |@secretlovelybeauty|@gwynrielsupremacist|@bookologist|@unpopularcharacterstan|@moodymelanist|@discorrdiia|@generalnesta|@flora-shadowshine|@amaranthas-whore|@georgialeighc13|@selfdestructionfetish|@hlizr50|@sia-r|@gpxxx|@annikaschwietz|@rewiue

Azriel and Gwyn share a dance together with the help of their family.

If you would like to be tagged in updates, please let me know!

Note: Thank you @imsointobooks for this adorable prompt! I hope the wait was worth it. <3

Read on AO3

Azriel x Gwyn

Warnings: Fluff

Word Count: 2,057

Masterlist

“Azriel, what did you think of the new Sellyn Drake book?” Rhys asked, biting back a laugh as he watched his brother. Cassian stood beside him, his body shaking with silent laughter. “Az?”

“What? Oh, it’s good,” Azriel murmured, barely sparing them a glance as he stared across the training ring to where a certain young priestess was chatting with Feyre, Emerie, Balthazar and Lucien.

They were all in the training ring for a party Nesta had decided to throw to celebrate the Valkyrie’s first year as a training group. The party was slowly dying down, and most of the guests had left, but the majority of the Inner Circle, along with a few others, were still mingling.

Rhys was standing to the side with Azriel, Cassian, Nesta and Mor, attempting to hold a conversation about recent improvements Azriel had been helping with in Illyria. But Azriel had contributed very little to the discussion. Cassian kept having to answer questions instead.

Now, the four of them were all mutually enjoying asking Azriel increasingly more ridiculous questions to see how much he was paying attention. So far, he had answered several questions, including the one Rhys had just asked, with affirmative answers that all of them knew couldn’t be true. Which meant he was paying as much attention as they had all suspected – none at all.

If Rhys was honest though, he didn’t mind. Watching his brother so entranced by Gwyn was something he had never expected to see. With Mor, and even briefly with Elain, Azriel had never been this open with his emotions. But now, his feelings were written all over his face. He was in love. Really, and truly, in love. Rhys couldn’t be happier for his brother.

“Az, why don’t you go talk to her?” Cassian suggested, playfully shoving Azriel’s shoulder. Azriel startled, his gaze finally returning to the group next to him. His face turned unreadable, but a blush stained his cheeks, giving him away.

“I don’t know what you’re talking about,” Azriel mumbled, running his hands through his hair. His eyes darted back to Gwyn, a small smile teasing his lips as he appreciatively gazed after the priestess. “I was enjoying the music.”

“Oh please, we all know who you were looking at,” Nesta scoffed, poking Azriel’s arm. “Go talk to her. Or, better yet, ask her to dance.”

Azriel blanched, looking to Rhys for help. Rhys just smiled placidly, shrugging his shoulders. He was with Nesta on this one; Azriel needed to go talk to Gwyn, and dancing would be even better.

“Come on, Az. Go ask her,” Mor encouraged, grinning in delight. Azriel snuck another glance at Gwyn, ducking his head when he realized Gwyn was looking in his direction. Rhys stifled a laugh, enjoying Azriel’s obvious nervousness.

“Az is too chicken. He won’t do it,” Cassian said, switching strategies. Azriel would never back down from a challenge, especially from Cass. “I guess we’ll just have to hope Balthazar will ask her. He seems brave enough.”

“Oh fuck you,” Azriel commented, flipping Cassian off before straightening his clothes. “You’re all a bunch of busybodies.”

“Maybe, but we just want to see you happy,” Nesta commented, giving Azriel an affectionate squeeze on his arm. Rhys nodded his agreement, smiling as Azriel’s blush deepened.

“What could it hurt, Az?” Rhys added, tilting his head in Gwyn’s direction.

“She could say no,” Cassian noted, ever the optimist.

“She won’t,” Nesta confidently stated.

Cassian laughed, wrapping his arms around Nesta’s waist. “Wanna bet on it?”

“You’re on. But my money is on Gwyn saying yes,” Nesta agreed, smiling as Azriel rolled his eyes and squared his shoulders. Without waiting to see what anyone else said, Azriel strode off, seamlessly inserting himself into the other group’s conversation.

“What do you think, Rhys?” Cassian asked, lowering his voice so it didn’t carry. “Will she say yes, or no?”

“I’m with Nesta,” Rhys said calmly, gently nudging Feyre through the bond. Feyre subtly looked over at him with a raised eyebrow, welcoming him into her mind a moment later. What is it?

Cassian chuckled, turning to Mor to get her bet. Mor took Cassian’s side, noting that she wasn’t sure Gwyn would be willing to dance with so many people around. Azriel is about to ask Gwyn to dance, Rhys informed Feyre. We’re betting on if she’ll say yes or no.

I see, Feyre nodded, smiling at the conversation in front of her. I think she’ll say yes.

“Feyre is in favor of Gwyn accepting,” Rhys told his group, turning his attention back to his mate who had just opened her mind enough to allow him to hear the conversation she was having. He listened closely, his group waiting anxiously to find out when Azriel asked Gwyn.

“…planning to transfer camps to Windhaven,” Balthazar said, carrying on their conversation. “I’ll be there by Solstice.”

“I’ll make sure to have the supplies you requested,” came Emerie’s quiet voice. Azriel was still silently listening, his body angled toward Gwyn. Balthazar thanked Emerie, then Feyre turned the conversation to music.

“Gwyn, Nesta tells me you sing. I’d love to visit the services at the library some time to hear you, if you’re okay with it,” she said, bringing the group’s focus to Gwyn. The young priestess was visibly blushing, her eyes darting to Azriel every few seconds.

“I’d like that. I’ll let Clotho know, and she can send an invitation,” Gwyn nodded, smiling shyly. Azriel’s eyes stayed on Gwyn, never wavering as Feyre kept talking. Rhys kept mentally hoping his brother would make a move, but Azriel stayed silent for several minutes longer. But when the tune coming from the band changed, Rhys suddenly understood his brother’s silence.

“That clever asshole,” Cassian breathed, understanding hitting him. Azriel had waited for the band to turn to a slower song than what they had been playing, one that was perfectly suited to slow dancing, which had the added benefit of being easy to dance for someone who might be nervous. Clever indeed.

“The band Nesta chose is quite good, don’t you think, Gwyn?” Azriel finally spoke, interrupting whatever Lucien and Balthazar had been discussing. Before Gwyn could respond, Elain suddenly appeared by Feyre’s shoulder. Rhys mentally cursed her, worried her presence might throw off Azriel. But, to his surprise, Elain seemed to have similar goals.

“The music is just lovely,” Elain gushed, smiling at Gwyn. “Azriel, you should ask Gwyn to dance. It’s such a beautiful song.”

With that, she grabbed Lucien’s arm and tugged him into the middle of the training ring, which Nesta had had temporarily made into a dance floor. Lucien immediately swept her up into a waltz, seeming to decide it was best not to question the recent friendliness Elain had been showing him.

Gwyn and Azriel were left gawking at each other, both stunned by Elain’s sudden suggestion. Azriel recovered first, chuckling softly before bowing to Gwyn and offering his hand, the invitation to dance silently extended. Gwyn hesitated for a moment, causing Rhys and his group to almost scream at the couple to do something already.

Just as Rhys began worrying he was about to lose the bet, Gwyn silently took Azriel’s hand, letting him lead her out onto the dance floor. Azriel gracefully led Gwyn into the dance, easily guiding her slowly across the floor.

Rhys barely noticed Nesta clapping him on the back in victory, or Cassian and Mor groaning in defeat. He was too caught up watching his brother dance with Gwyn, the two of them laughing and smiling as they floated across the floor. It was so obvious how in love they were, yet he wasn’t sure they realized it yet.

“They’re a perfect couple, aren’t they?” Feyre asked, suddenly right next to him. He nodded, keeping his attention on the dancing couple. Elain unexpectedly appeared on Cassian’s other side, Lucien in tow, hand outstretched.

“So, what do I win?” Elain asked, ignoring everyone’s confused stares. “I heard the bet. I bet on Gwyn saying yes. What do I win?”

“You interfered,” Cassian protested, gawking at Elain.

“I did not,” she argued, jutting her chin out. “They’re perfect for each other, they just needed a little shove. That’s all.”

Nesta let out a giggle, breaking into full laughter as Emerie finally joined them, the rest of the group quickly joining in with Nesta’s contagious laugh. Rhys returned his focus to Azriel and Gwyn, watching as he spun her around, the two of them grinning at each other and obviously flirting happily.

The song shifted again, turning to a melody Rhys was quite familiar with. It was an old Illyrian love song, one sung around campfires and at weddings, the tune slow and steady. Azriel pulled Gwyn in closer, the two of them seeming lost in their own world.

Azriel had one hand on Gwyn’s waist, but the other hand, the one holding Gwyn’s, had lowered to their sides as they gently swayed, his forehead slowly coming down to rest against hers. Gwyn drew her hand away from Azriel’s and, for a moment, Rhys feared Gwyn had become anxious, but his worry was quickly erased.

Gwyn slowly dragged her hand up Azriel’s arm, eventually coming to rest around his neck, her hands buried in his hair. Azriel’s free hand snaked around her waist, his strong arms cradling her close to his body as they continued swaying slowly to the music, his shadows swirling softly around them. They were lost in each other, the rest of the world seeming to fade away.

Rhys watched them dance, his heart full of happiness at his brother’s obvious joy. Finally, Azriel had found his person. Rhys tugged Feyre against his chest, resting his chin on her head while they watched Azriel and Gwyn sway peacefully. The rest of the group quietly dispersed, leaving just Rhys, Feyre, Cassian and Nesta watching the couple dancing.

The band continued playing, seeming to sense that the two people left on the dance floor weren’t ready to call it a night yet. Azriel and Gwyn were completely caught up in their own little bubble, swaying back and forth, holding each other tightly, his shadows half concealing them from view. It was a sight Rhys, along with almost all of Azriel’s family, had prayed they might see one day. And now with Gwyn, it made the scene that much sweeter.

Two people who had been through hell and back had found each other. Had found the person that saw through all their pain and scars and loved each other unconditionally. It was as if they had been waiting for each other, for this moment, for longer than either of them realized. Two souls, perfectly made for the other.

It was more than Rhys could have ever hoped for his brother, and for the young priestess who he hoped would become his sister soon. And, judging by the way Azriel was still holding her, Rhys had good reason to believe his brother had no intention of letting Gwyn go anytime soon.

Rhys held Feyre just a little tighter, choked with emotion as he watched Azriel and Gwyn. He had a feeling this dance, one that Azriel had waited centuries for, was just the beginning. As Elain had said, Azriel and Gwyn just needed a little push in the right direction. But now that they had each other, they seemed happy to stay right where they were.

“They look so content,” Nesta commented, her voice thick with emotion. Rhys looked over to find silent tears on Nesta’s cheeks, Cassian patiently holding her as she cried. Rhys shared a knowing smile with his sister-in-law, then took one last look at the two dancing, his heart full.

With a final smile, Rhys urged the group downstairs for a glass of wine, leaving Azriel and Gwyn in the training ring. The two of them didn’t even notice when the band snuck away as well, leaving them truly alone to revel in each other’s company.

When a shooting star passed overhead, Gwyn tilted her head to the sky, laughing as she made a wish. But Azriel kept his eyes on her; for once, not needing to wish on a star. His wish was already in his arms, gently holding him as they swayed to music only they could hear.

****************************************************

Tags:  @chloepereyra|@lovelyladymayyy|@erisvanserrarailmepls|@valkygwyn|@remellarome|@inejjg|@azrielsgirl|@gisellefigue08|@acourtofmidnightsnacks|@67impalagirl13|@illyrian-valkyrie|@arinbelle|@amandapearls|@bittermuire|@cauldron-blessedarcheron1|@starbornsinger|@princessofmerchants|@allygug|@zooni92802|@molinden|@tallyovie|@siyeoncruella|@thelittlebookishcorner|@zerxfaithinhumanity|@words-are-what-i-hide-behind|@vasudharaghavan|@gwynkyrie|@niytavia|@fairytamy|@madie2200|@icarusave|@spookylightkidranch|@mirubyai|@gwynsazriel|@live-the-fangirl-life|@bookprofessor|@ddsworldofbooks|@positivewitch|@cursebreaker29|@zullyluly|@violentdelightshaveviolentends12|@faithisilliterate|@b00kishwh0re|@spookyfreakturtlefire|@inejbrekkxr|@whereisvaughan|@aelingalathyniusrailme |@secretlovelybeauty|@gwynrielsupremacist|@bookologist|@unpopularcharacterstan|@moodymelanist|@discorrdiia|@generalnesta|@flora-shadowshine|@amaranthas-whore|@georgialeighc13|@selfdestructionfetish| @sia-r|@gpxxx|@annikaschwietz|@rewiue 

Title: Azriel POV - Novel Explorations

Gwyn accompanies Azriel on another spy mission where they explore the finer aspects of romantic literature.

Note: This originally was only going to be a scene from Gwyn’s POV, but I decided to just have some fun and do it from both, which is why I am posting it as a bonus chapter. Enjoy!

If you would like to be tagged in updates, please let me know!

Read on AO3

Azriel x Gwyn

Warnings: Steam. Lots of steam.

Word Count: 6,305

Masterlist

Azriel quietly watched the estate in front of him, leaving Gwyn to read her book in peace. She seemed utterly entranced by whatever story she was reading, leaving him to spy on his own. But he didn’t mind, not one bit. As long as he got to hold her, he was more than satisfied.

Azriel was leaning against a large oak in a sheltered outcropping overlooking the estate he had been monitoring for weeks. Ever since dinner a few nights ago, he had increased surveillance here and begun working with Lucien to start patrols in the Mortal Lands. Despite his schedule being more hectic than normal, Gwyn had willingly volunteered to accompany him when it was his turn to watch the estate.

Which meant he got hours and hours of alone time with her, something that made him happier than he could have ever imagined. With her sitting between his legs, tucked firmly against his chest, the time went by far more pleasurably than it would if he were alone.

Even with his confession about his involvement with Elain, things had been good between them. Gwyn hadn’t pulled away as he had feared. Finally, with everything out in the open, he could truly just be. Gwyn was his and he was hers. There was nothing left to worry about, which gave him far more time to worry about other things - like the adorably pouty face she was currently making as she set her book down.

“Why are you frowning?” Azriel murmured, leaning forward to pepper her jaw with kisses until she was smiling again. “Did your book have a sad ending?”

“What? Oh, no, it was good,” Gwyn assured him absently, tilting her head to give him access to her neck. She let out a small sigh when his lips touched the sensitive skin below her ear, marking a trail along her throat.

“Mmm, what was it about?” Azriel asked against her, amused by how easily she was becoming distracted. Her eyes had fluttered shut, her face full of pleasure as he continued kissing her throat. “Gwyn?”

“Hmm?”

“Are you going to answer my question?”

“What question?”

He chuckled, pulling his head away so he could find out the answer himself. Her eyes shot open, a flush coloring her cheeks. He smiled in amusement while he reached for her book, ignoring the look of horror on her face as he flipped it to a random spot.

Gwyn grabbed for the book, but he kept it out of reach, holding her tightly with one arm and the book with the other. He knew it was probably filled with smut, but he didn’t care. He mostly just liked seeing how flustered she got any time he dared look at one of her romance novels.

“Azriel, give it back!” She demanded, her face turning a lovely shade of crimson. “Give me the book, Az.”

“I just want to know what it was about. You were frowning. I want to know why,” Azriel shot at her, holding the book out to his side. If he was honest, he didn’t really care about the book, but he enjoyed when she talked to him about it. “Answer my questions and I’ll give it back.”

“You’re a bumhole,” she tossed at him, crossing her arms and pouting. He gasped, feigning hurt. She rolled her eyes, refusing to give in.

“A bumhole? Really, Berdara?” Azriel tsked, nuzzling her neck. He couldn’t help it; he found it incredibly sexy when she was annoyed. “If that’s the worst you can do, remind me to teach you how to curse.”

She gaped at him, giving him a playful shove that he only laughed at. “I don’t need your lessons, thank you. Now give me my book.”

He affectionately tugged on her braid, undeterred by her display. He knew she wasn’t truly mad, only nervous. Her blush gave her away. “I told you, I’ll give it back if you answer my questions.”

“Promise?” She pressed, giving him a scathing look. He bit back a laugh, not bothering to hide his amusement. She was so damn adorable when she was annoyed with him.

“I promise, Bird,” he agreed, flashing her a crooked grin that had become reserved only for her. If the way she instantly melted was any indication, she seemed to like it. A moment later, she huffed but settled back against his chest.

“The book is a retelling of the Hades and Persephone legends,” she explained while he softly stroked her arm. “It’s set in a modern world, but they still have a god-like structure, complete with Hades ruling a part of town that everyone thinks is bad but is really quite nice. Persephone ends up there, and then they fall in love.”

He quietly hummed behind her, exaggerating his thoughtful demeanor. “That sounds nice. Why would that make you frown?”

“No reason,” she deflected, picking at the grass. He watched her steadily, quickly realizing there was more that she wasn’t telling him. He could guess what it related to, so he chose not to push her, letting her decide if she wanted to continue the conversation. To his delight, she went on a few minutes later.

“Azriel, I was frowning because…” she trailed off again, thinking. He patiently waited, idly playing with her hair. “Because I was thinking about whether or not people really do some of the things in the book.”

She turned to him, meeting his curious stare. He tucked a stray lock of hair behind her ear, tilting his head inquisitively. He wanted her to keep talking, but he knew he needed to be careful. She still wasn’t completely comfortable talking about sex, so he needed to help her relax enough to discuss this.

“What do you mean?” He pressed, running his thumb along her jaw. He felt her shiver, goosebumps spreading across her skin. That was a good sign. It meant she still felt safe, even if she was nervous. “What kind of things?”

She looked at the ground for a moment, avoiding his gaze. Her blush deepened, but eventually she continued. “Sex things. This book I was reading, the couple in it, they do…strange things. They like having sex in this room, in front of people. And it’s not just that, some of the positions they get into…well, I’m not sure some of it is entirely feasible. And I’ve read other books where I’ve wondered the same thing. Certain positions seem like they might be…uncomfortable.”

He couldn’t help the amusement that bubbled up at her response. She seemed almost afraid to tell him, as though he might find what she was saying odd. Or perhaps she thought he would think she was naive. Either way, he would have to explain to her later that nothing she said regarding sex could shock him or make him think less of her. It only ever excited him.

He quirked an eyebrow, a grin teasing his lips. “What do you mean by uncomfortable?”

“I… nothing, I’m not sure if they work comfortably in real life. That’s all,” she rambled, blushing furiously.

“Why wouldn’t they?“ He pushed, smirking devilishly, his eyes filled with heat. She shifted between his legs, sending a jolt of awareness straight to his cock.

“I don’t know. Don’t you need…friction?”

“It is nice, yes,” he grinned, unable to hide the smug satisfaction he felt that she was discussing this with him. He loved that he was the one she felt safe enough to talk to about sex. That he was the one she was willing to ask these questions.

“Well, I’m just not sure if certain positions allow for the right amount of friction,” she said nervously, holding his gaze. The scent of her arousal drifted up to him, filling him with desire. He could feel his cock growing harder by the second, but he ignored it, focusing on her.

“What kind of positions?”

“You know, the ones in novels,” she replied, shuffling between his legs again and accidentally rubbing against his now very hard length. He held back a groan, wanting to keep her talking, but gods it felt good. So fucking good.

“No, I don’t know,” he quipped, not bothering to hide his amusement. “According to Nesta, these novels can be very interesting. I don’t know how adventurous the positions you’re referring to are.”

She subtly shifted again, the flush on her cheeks spreading down her chest. He held her tightly, keeping her firmly tucked against him while he forced himself to avoid thinking about how far that flush might go.

“Well, I’m sure you do know,” she argued weakly, seeming just as flustered as he was quickly becoming. “I’m not explaining it to you.”

He could tell she wasn’t uneasy - far from it - so he let a little of his restraint slip, his desire bubbling to the surface. He leaned in, grabbing her chin and tilting her face up to place a soft kiss to her mouth. He hovered there, his eyes heavy lidded and his lips brushing against hers.

“Then show me,” he finally murmured against her mouth, their breaths mingling. Her face flushed an even deeper shade of red, her eyes going wide, but he resolutely stayed where he was, a challenge in his eyes. If it weren’t for the obvious curiosity she was showing, he would have backed off. But he could find no evidence that she was uncomfortable, only nervous.

“I can’t show you,” she insisted breathlessly, still held firmly between his legs, his hold on her chin keeping her teal eyes focused on him.

“Why not?” He asked, dropping his voice to the deep, honeyed tone he usually reserved for the bedroom, except with Gwyn. He found it often came out when he least expected it with her, the need to make her happy overriding his usual reservations.

“Because we're…we’re…I don’t know,” she gestured wildly. Despite her protests, the scent of her arousal had grown, making him ache for her even more. “And I’m not…we’re not…doing that.”

“Doing what?” He pushed, holding her gaze while he ignored the throbbing in his pants.

“You know what.”

His lips turned up at the corners, his face still almost brushing hers. He studied her for a moment longer, deciding if she was reaching a point where he should stop, but he only found desire and nervousness, so he plowed forward.

“We can keep our clothes on,” he suggested, his thumb making lazy strokes along her jaw. “Just show me. I promise I won’t do anything you don’t want me to do.”

She sighed, giving in to his pleas. “Okay, but…” she trailed off, chewing on her bottom lip while he watched her intently. “Don’t laugh. Okay?”

“Gwyn, honey, I won’t,” Azriel soothed her, his free hand cupping her face. One day, she would stop worrying that he would judge her for her desires and her curiosity. Until then, he would keep reassuring her as much as she needed. “I promise. I just want to know what you’re curious about. Show me. Please.”

She looked at him for a long moment, then pulled out of his grasp, shaking off the blanket and moving to her knees between his legs while he steadily watched. Then she carefully straddled him, placing her hands gingerly on his shoulders. His hands came to rest on her waist, holding her there but not daring to tug her any closer.

He suddenly realized he had walked himself into a very dangerous corner, but he couldn’t bring himself to care. His mind was a haze of need and desire, the heat of her body going straight to his already hard cock. He didn’t want to stop, but he wasn’t sure how much of this he could take - and this was only the beginning.

“Is this the first position you were curious about?” He asked, his gaze dipping to where their bodies almost met. She had been in his arms like this a few times, but never when she was so openly aroused. It made the moment that much sweeter knowing she was finally becoming comfortable letting him see her like this.

She hesitantly nodded, seeming unsure of herself. “Yes, it seems feasible, but…I was curious how it works. Does the female have to do everything?”

He softly chuckled, brazenly pulling her slightly closer, just enough so he could feel the heat from her core as his length brushed against her. He watched her carefully, searching for signs of fear. Thankfully, she seemed to be enjoying it. She was so warm and pliant in his arms; he wanted more.

“No, the female doesn’t have to do all the work,” he explained, one hand slowly gliding along her side. He wanted to touch her everywhere, to turn her nervousness into pleasure. “But she does have all the control. If she wants things to stop, she can stop them. Or vice versa.”

“Oh, that’s nice,” Gwyn mumbled, her eyes full of heat. He wanted to pull her down tighter, but he held back, unsure if she was ready for that yet.

“Gwyn, are there other positions you’re curious about?” Azriel finally asked when she kept staring at him. He could stay in this exact position all night, but he wanted to know what else she had been thinking about.

“Yes, but I’m not exactly sure if you want me to show you the next one,” she admitted, avoiding his gaze. “I’m also not sure how it would work with your wings.”

“Show me and I’ll worry about my wings,” Azriel smiled, holding her hips firmly. He had a gut feeling he knew where this was going. He could only pray he was right.

“I need you on your back,” she instructed, placing her hands on his chest.

He instantly obeyed, a devilish smirk forming as he shifted away from the tree, his hands still cradling her hips. When he was clear of the tree, he carefully laid back, his wings spread out to his sides. She stared at him for a moment, then began moving.

She crawled over his torso, diligently avoiding his wings. He held back a chuckle, not wanting to make her more nervous than she already was. But he was fairly certain his instincts were correct about where this was headed, and he had never been more aroused in his life.

He dropped his hands to her calves, occasionally stroking them as she continued moving, holding her when she paused halfway up his chest. He gave her an encouraging smile, eagerly anticipating her next move.

With one last look at him, she moved farther up, inching herself over him until she was hovering above his face. He moved his wings, allowing her to straddle him easier, but she held her body rigid so there was a generous amount of space between her core and his mouth. Even with that space, his mind had gone into a frenzy. All he could think about was ripping her clothes off and teaching her exactly how this position worked.

Before he could do something he’d probably regret, she suddenly tried scrambling off him, her face filled with embarrassment. He quickly grasped her thighs, holding her tightly above him. He wasn’t sure why she looked so embarrassed, but there was no way he was going to let her feel any shame for this.

She froze, looking down to meet his gaze, no doubt seeing his unconcealed desire. He knew he needed to say something, but he couldn’t stop his eyes from darting between her face and her core. He wanted to taste her, wanted to hear what sounds she might make as he made her cum on his tongue.

She held perfectly still, her body shaking slightly in his hands. He shook away his fantasy, forcing himself to speak, his voice husky and breathless. “Gwyn, honey, I hate asking this, but what part of this position were you unsure of?”

“Umm, I had never read about it before,” she began, her hands shaking at her sides. “I wasn’t sure if people really did this or if…if it was just something in novels.”

“Oh, people really do this,” Azriel drawled, his eyes darting back to her core for a moment. His tongue darted out to moisten his lips, his skin flushed. He knew he needed to reassure her, but he could barely think. “It’s quite fun. I’m rather fond of this position actually.”

She let out a breathless “Oh” of shock at his confession. He wasn’t sure if that was a good sign or not, which only made his mind even more fuzzy. What the hell was he doing? Gwyn was practically sitting on his face, clearly nervous, and he was…he wasn’t sure what he was. His body was on fire, his cock throbbing almost painfully, and the scent of her arousal was so thick that it was making him dizzy with need.

The lovely bird is shaking, his shadows unexpectedly whispered to him. Oh shit. They were right. Gwyn was trembling, and he had been so distracted that he had no idea if it was from fear or arousal. His gaze snapped to hers, worry filling him. He didn’t bother questioning her. Instead, he flipped her on her back, cradling her head in the grass with one hand while his other arm gently stroked her side, his body hovering next to her.

“Gwyn, are you okay?” He questioned, fear lacing every word. He should have been paying more attention. He shouldn’t have let himself get so caught up in his own desires. “I shouldn’t have said that. Bird, I’m so sorry, I shouldn’t have pushed you. We can stop.”

She blinked dazedly, staring up at him through lowered lashes. “No, I’m fine. I was…a little shocked. That’s all. But I want to keep going.”

He froze, unsure if she was serious or not. He didn’t want to push her too far, but he also couldn’t refuse her anything. Yet, at the same time, his restraint was dangerously slipping. He might have better self-control than most, but evenhe could only last so long. He was torn between wanting to make sure she felt safe and wanting to ravish her until she was moaning his name. He just wanted to feel her, all of her.

“Actually, the next position requires me below you anyway,” she explained, dragging him out of his thoughts. She gently brushed his hair away from his worried face with a soft smile. “Azriel, I’m fine. Can we please keep going?”

He studied her, a muscle in his jaw working furiously, but eventually he nodded, carefully moving his hand away from her head. He gave her a nervous smile, running his fingers through his hair before nodding at her to continue. He could handle this. He just needed to stay focused.

“Um, you have to do most of the work for this one,” she shyly admitted, leaning up on her elbows. “I’m not really sure how to explain it.”

“Is it in the book you were reading?”

“Yes,” she nodded.

“How about you show me the passage it’s in?” He suggested, his voice strained. He just needed to focus, that was all. He could do this.

She reached for the book, quickly flipping through the pages until she found the scene she wanted. When she had located it, she handed the book to him. He quickly scanned the page, instantly realizing he was utterly wrong. There was no way he was going to be able to stay focused while he did this to her. He was in such deep shit.

“Oh, I see,” he mumbled, a slightly nervous smirk teasing his lips. Oh gods, he was so screwed. “Are you sure you want me to show you this position, Gwyn?”

“Yes,” she insisted, ignoring the out he had given her. “I want to know if it’s comfortable or not.”

Oh gods, he was fucked. Utterly, and truly fucked. His cock was already beyond hard, and there was no way he could demonstrate this position without pressing into her. He couldn’t lie, the thought was appealing, but also torturous. Why had he convinced her to do this? He was such an idiot. Maybe Cassian was right. Maybe he was a masochist.

“Okay,” he said simply, resigning himself to his fate. He held her gaze for a moment, then forced himself to move. She rolled onto her side, preparing herself for him. He swallowed, praying he could make it through this without completely losing all sense of self-control. His shadows, the little wretches, just snickered in his ear, enjoying his struggle.

Azriel carefully hooked one of her legs over his right arm, gripping her thigh while he moved to straddle her other leg. He moved painfully slow until he was seated between her legs, her thigh cradled in his hand, but he remained a small distance away, his lower body not quite reaching her core. He couldn’t bring himself to move closer until he knew for sure she wanted this.

“Gwyn, honey, how much farther do you want me to go?” He asked, his voice firm but rough. His body was aching, but he refused to take this any further than she was comfortable with. “I can stop here. Or I can keep going. Tell me what you want.”

He needed to hear her tell him she wanted this. Needed her reassurance before he moved again. A part of him wanted her to say no, to tell him to stop, just so he wouldn’t have to test the limits of his restraint. But he couldn’t deny how much he wanted her to say yes, to let him move closer, to feel her warmth against his throbbing length.

“Keep going,” she demanded, voice shaking slightly. “I want you to show me.”

He knew there was no point arguing; he couldn’t refuse her anything. Besides, he wanted this as badly as she did, even if it was torturous to be so close yet unable to truly feel her, to taste her. After a moment, he slid closer, shifting forward until he was fully pressed against her core, her leg wrapped firmly around him.

She unexpectedly let out a small gasp when his body made contact with her, a hand flying to her mouth as the sound escaped her. His mouth fell open, his eyes darting to hers, his hands shaking.

Oh gods, he couldn’t take this. Every fiber of his being was screaming at him to grind his length against her, to seek the friction their bodies were craving. His control was slipping, and that little sound of pleasure from her was making it even worse. He wanted to see what other sounds he could draw from her.

She slowly uncovered her mouth, looking at him shyly while he sat frozen between her legs. He couldn’t think straight; his body was frozen between need and fear. What had he walked himself into? He forced himself to speak, once again needing to hear her reassurance.

“Gwyneth, are you okay?” Azriel choked out, his voice so low it was almost a growl. “Gwyn? Say something.”

“I’m fine,” she replied slowly, her voice quivering. “I understand how this position works now. Thank you.”

He had no idea if her words were a dismissal or an invitation, but he couldn’t take this position any longer without pressing his hips into hers. He slowly nodded, then moved his body away, careful not to grind his length against her. He set her leg back down and knelt beside her, his mind reeling. She sat up slowly, watching him unsteadily breathing, her own breath coming out ragged.

“Azriel, are you okay?” She timidly asked when she had somewhat caught her breath. He blinked at her, chest heaving while he chewed on his bottom lip. Was he okay? No. He was utterly wrecked. His body burned with desire. He was such an idiot. He had convinced her to do this, and now he was paying the price.

“Of course, Bird,” he assured her, his hands absently running through his hair. Then, like the fool he was, he offered her more, unable to deny her anything even when he knew his self-control was at an all-time low. “Are there…any other things you were curious about?”

She nodded slowly. “Just one. But we can stop if you want.”

“No, I’m fine,” he insisted, brushing his hands off on his thighs. He could handle one more position, he lied to himself, ignoring the amused swirling of his shadows around them. They had split their attention between the estate and Azriel and Gwyn, just as eager as he was to see what Gwyn would do next. “We can keep going as long as you want to. Show me what it is.”

She hesitantly stood, offering him a hand on her way up. He obediently stood with her, both of them brushing themselves off before looking at each other. She tucked a lock of loose hair behind her ears, then shyly met his heat filled gaze.

“Umm, you’ll have to hold me for this one,” she instructed, moving forward to lace her arms around his neck. He obeyed, reaching down to grab her just below her backside.

“Like this?”

“Yes.”

He lifted her without further questions, allowing her to wrap her legs securely around his waist, just like they had when he had taken her to the lake. He waited for more instructions, too lost in the feeling of her soft body against his to say anything else. He wanted to feel her bare skin on his, to explore every inch of her with his tongue. He was such a fool for thinking he could handle this; he was a wreck. A complete wreck.

No female had ever had this effect on him, had ever destroyed his self-control with nothing more than a touch. He was completely at her mercy, spiraling deeper into this dangerous game he had started with her. All she had to was say the word and he would strip her bare right here in these woods and make love to her until the sun rose. His resistance was gone. His ability to think of anything logical had been ruined. He was hers to do with as she liked.

“In the book, he lifts her like this,” she finally whispered, holding his gaze steadily. “They’re in the middle of a room, and he lifts her and then he starts…he starts…well, you know.”

“Fucking her,” Azriel offered when she trailed off. If he was going to be a fool, he might as well go all in. He knew where this was going now, and he had no will left to resist it. She nodded, confirming his suspicions. “Does he lean against anything, or does he stay in the middle of the room?”

“Eventually he moves against something, but he starts…everything while they’re still in the middle of the room,” she explained, her throat bobbing rapidly. “I’m not entirely sure how that works. It seems like our…parts aren’t aligned properly.”

He threw caution to the wind and slowly smiled, his eyes dipping to where her core rested near the base of his stomach. As long as she seemed agreeable, what was the point in fighting this? “You’re right, but it’s still possible. It just takes a little bit of maneuvering to make things…align.”

“How?”

“Let me show you,” he replied, his hands squeezing her backside gently. Gods he loved her ass, and he loved that she let him touch it now. “Loosen your grip on me to where only your palms are on my neck.”

“But…” she began protesting, her nose scrunching in worry.

“Trust me. Just do it,” he firmly but softly commanded, his voice dipping back to that honeyed tone she seemed to like. Her resistance visibly crumbled, her arms moving as he had told her, putting all her trust in him to keep her upright.

Then his hands moved, bringing a small gasp to her lips as they slid across her backside, dropping her body lower, her legs slipping slightly as he dropped her down. Before she could protest again, he stopped, his hands once again firmly holding her. But now their position had changed.

Her body was now slightly angled back, almost like he was going to drop her, but her center was now perfectly aligned with his throbbing cock. He once again questioned his own sanity. This was a terrible idea. Yet it felt perfect, almost too good. All it would take is one small movement and his hips would be grinding into hers, driving them toward the release their bodies were clearly wanting.

“It seems like a lot of work for the male,” she breathlessly laughed, sending a fresh wave of heat flooding to his pants. Cauldron he was so fucking hard. “Holding up the female, I mean. While also doing…you know.”

He let out a sound that was somewhere between a laugh and groan, his hands gripping her tighter. He was such a fool. A complete and utter fool. She felt impossibly good pressed against him like this. It was tortuous and wonderful at the same time. “It can be a lot of work, yes. That’s why I prefer being against a wall or something. It takes some of the strain off.”

“Show me,” she murmured, shocking him so much that he almost dropped her. She couldn’t be serious. There was no way she wanted him to show her that.

He blinked, searching her face for signs of hesitation, but there wasn’t a single one. Oh fuck. What was he doing? Why had he convinced her to do this when he should have been working? He was beyond screwed at this point, so he simply gave in to it, not even bothering to resist anymore. If he was going to be wrecked so completely by her, he might as well enjoy it.

When he was satisfied she wasn’t going to take back her command, he slowly moved toward the large tree he had previously sat against. He hoisted her slightly higher, causing her core to drag against his hardness. He bit back a groan, his cock twitching from the sudden jolt of friction. It felt so good, but he needed more.

He carefully pinned her against the oak, then, because apparently he really was a masochist, he leaned into her, pressing her core firmly into his aching cock. A burst of pleasure shot through him, leaving him temporarily frozen in shock. Fuck. He was going to burst. If she so much as barely rocked her hips, he was going to cum in his pants. He had never been this close to the edge from so little stimulation.

She seemed to be feeling something similar because a loud moan left her mouth, her body trembling in his arms. That sound went straight to his cock, urging his body to move, to grind into her, to seek release.

He instantly froze, his eyes widening with worry even while his body trembled with need. He didn’t want to push her, but if he didn’t do something soon, he was going to end up ripping her clothes off and fucking her in the middle of these woods. Every second was a battle not to grip her hips harder and let her ride him against this tree. He didn’t even care if they were fully clothed anymore, he just wanted to make her cum, to find out if she would make more of those delicious sounds.

She gripped his shoulders, her eyes fluttering shut as his cock pressed into her covered core. He was so fucked. He didn’t know what to do. He was completely lost in her, in the sinful feeling of her body pressed into his. He shouldn’t have done this. He shouldn’t have ever convinced her to show him what she was curious about. But dammit, he liked it. He liked learning what that beautiful mind of hers was thinking.

But now he was stuck, caught between wanting to ravish her against this tree and not wanting to take things too far. And she was doing absolutely nothing to help him. She was utterly pliant in his arms, her face as dazed and pleasure filled as he was sure his was. Gods he wanted to taste her, to feel her coming undone in his arms. He couldn’t think. Couldn’t breathe.

His head dropped involuntarily, his eyes darting to her lips while he fought his own instincts, lost in her desire filled gaze. This couldn’t be happening. Yet it was. Oh gods. Was he really about to pleasure her for the first time in the middle of the woods? Did she even want him to? He needed to think, but her hold on him was unbreakable. He couldn’t pull away even if he wanted to.

While he was still locked in an internal battle, she apparently decided to make the decision for him. She buried her hands in the hair at the nape of his neck, tugging him down, their lips hovering a breath apart, eliciting a groan from him. Oh gods, this was really happening. She wanted this. Right here, right now, she wanted this. How did he ever get so lucky to have this incredible female want him?

Before he could lower his mouth to hers and begin showing her all the wicked things he could do to her, his shadows whispered in his ear, their tone urgent. Someone is moving. They exited the house. Hurry.

His head shot up, centuries of training kicking in even while his body ached in protest. Later, he would have to continue this later. Right now, he had a job to do.

“Someone’s moving,” he informed Gwyn, quickly kissing her forehead before setting her gently on her feet, leaving his body feeling hollow and cold. He was going to kill whoever had just caused this interruption.

He pulled her to the edge of their little outcropping, tucking her to his side so she was half shielded by his large body. He spotted the person his shadows had alerted him to a moment later, their cloaked figure striding quickly through the garden toward the road that led away from the estate. From this distance, he couldn’t tell if it was male or female. As they disappeared into the trees, hiding them from view, Azriel turned to Gwyn, softly cupping her face.

“Gwyn, there is another spy waiting along that road. I need to go speak with them,” he explained, speaking in a firm voice that left no room for argument. “I don’t want to leave you here, but if I take you down there, then I need you to follow my every command. No arguments. Okay?”

“Okay, I can do that,” she quickly agreed. “Do you think something is going to go wrong?”

“No, it should be fine,” he promised her, his thumb stroking her cheek. “But I’d rather not take chances. So, please just follow my lead this time.”

She nodded, holding his burning gaze. He didn’t allow himself to question her before he took her hand in his, tucking her against his side again as he quickly winnowed them. They appeared in a new patch of trees a moment later, his shadows shielding them from view. Azriel paused, taking in his surroundings, then guided her forward.

Despite the urgency in which he was moving, he couldn’t help but feel a burst of pride. She was moving as quietly as the best of his spies, deftly following his footsteps with little trouble. It only made her adore her even more. That was his Gwyn. Driving him crazy with desire one moment and proving just how capable she was at just about anything the next moment. She was a wonder.

Azriel approached the other spy, whose face was almost entirely concealed by the hood of his cloak, and began whispering, holding Gwyn’s hand firmly the whole time. They quickly discussed their plan, Azriel instructing the other spy to follow the mysterious figure as far as possible. Meanwhile, he would remain at the estate until the morning, ensuring no one else left the building. When they were finished talking, his spy nodded to him, bowed to Gwyn, then disappeared into the night.

Azriel turned to Gwyn once his spy faded into nothing, cupping her face with his free hand. “Gwyn, you heard enough of that to understand what’s happening, right?”

She nodded, her face set with determination. He smiled softly, in awe of her strength and bravery.

“Good, then I don’t need to explain,” Azriel sighed, stroking her face softly. “It’s up to you what you want to do, Bird. I can quickly take you home, or you can stay with me for the night. I’m not leaving until sunrise though.”

“I want to stay with you,” she instantly responded, not a trace of hesitation or fear.

“Okay,” he conceded, not bothering to question her. He wrapped his arms around her, winnowing them back to their hidden spot on the hill. Without a word, Azriel settled back against the large oak tree, on high alert. She obediently settled between his legs once more, wrapping the blanket around them both and leaning back against his chest.

They both watched the estate carefully while he informed her that his shadows would watch the perimeters while they surveyed the back of the house. They only spoke occasionally for the rest of the night, focusing their attention on their duties. When the sky began to lighten, Azriel quietly urged her to her feet, taking her in his arms and winnowing them home, their job complete for the night.

***************************************************

Tags:  @chloepereyra|@lovelyladymayyy|@erisvanserrarailmepls|@valkygwyn|@remellarome|@inejjg|@azrielsgirl|@gisellefigue08|@acourtofmidnightsnacks|@67impalagirl13|@illyrian-valkyrie|@arinbelle|@amandapearls|@bittermuire|@cauldron-blessedarcheron1|@starbornsinger|@princessofmerchants|@allygug|@zooni92802|@molinden|@tallyovie|@siyeoncruella|@thelittlebookishcorner|@zerxfaithinhumanity|@words-are-what-i-hide-behind|@vasudharaghavan|@gwynkyrie|@niytavia|@fairytamy|@madie2200|@icarusave|@spookylightkidranch|@mirubyai|@gwynsazriel|@live-the-fangirl-life|@bookprofessor|@ddsworldofbooks|@positivewitch|@cursebreaker29|@zullyluly|@violentdelightshaveviolentends12|@faithisilliterate|@b00kishwh0re|@spookyfreakturtlefire|@inejbrekkxr|@whereisvaughan|@aelingalathyniusrailme |@secretlovelybeauty|@gwynrielsupremacist|@bookologist|@unpopularcharacterstan|@moodymelanist|@discorrdiia|@generalnesta|@flora-shadowshine|@amaranthas-whore|@georgialeighc13|@sia-r|@gpxxx|@annikaschwietz|@rewiue

Title: Novel Explorations

Gwyn accompanies Azriel on another spy mission where they explore the finer aspects of romantic literature.

If you would like to be tagged in updates, please let me know!

Read on AO3

Azriel x Gwyn

Warnings: Steam. Lots of steam. 

Word Count: 5,881

Masterlist

“Okay, I’m ready,” Gwyn chirped, taking Azriel’s outstretched hand. He grinned, lifting her in his arms and winnowing into the darkness, releasing her a moment later when they arrived at their destination.

It had been several days since Azriel had taken Gwyn to family dinner, and, in that time, he had increased surveillance in Vallahan. Gwyn had begun accompanying him when it was his turn to monitor the estate that belonged to the lord they had been investigating. It was the best way she could spend time with him, especially with Azriel now having to visit the Mortal Lands as well.

Azriel guided her to a now familiar outcropping, hidden by trees, and sat down, situating himself against a large oak tree. She plopped down next to him, moving to pull out the blanket she had brought, but was interrupted when Azriel suddenly hauled her between his legs, pulling her against his chest.

She giggled, leaning back into him, and tilting her head to see his face. “I don’t mind sitting next to you. You know that, right?”

He gave her a crooked grin, his hazel eyes dancing with mischief. “Yes, but it’s cold. You’ll stay warmer this way.”

“I have a blanket,” she argued, knowing he would ignore her protests. It had become their habit the past few days; he would hold her in his arms and watch the estate, occasionally instructing her on spy techniques, and she would sit quietly, reading a book if the moon was out (like tonight) or learning how to perform maintenance on weapons otherwise.

As expected, Azriel didn’t respond, instead grabbing her blanket and draping it over the both of them, carefully tucking the corners around her legs. She smiled, quietly adjusting herself into a comfortable position against his chest. When she was settled, his arms came around her waist, giving her a small squeeze before resting gently around her.

She pulled out the book she had brought, eager to finish it. The book, Neon Gods, was a recommendation from Nesta. She had told Gwyn it had a different kind of smut than what she was accustomed to, so it might help her see a different side of sexual pleasure. And cauldron had Nesta been right.

The book was far more…wild than most of the books Nesta and Emerie gave her, but she had devoured it, reading the pages faster than she would have thought possible. She had never read anything like it. She wasn’t even sure half of what was in it was possible, let alone if people actually took pleasure from what was in the book.

She flipped to the spot she had left off and immediately began reading, leaving Azriel to silently watch the estate, his shadows swirling around them protectively. She loved moments like this where they simply enjoyed each other’s company, no need for conversation or anything else. Just being together was enough.

Even with his confession about his involvement with Elain, things had been good between them. She had felt a bit of sadness at first, but he had spent every moment since then showing her how sincere he was when he said she was the only female he cared for. Everything was in the past. There was nothing for her to worry about, which allowed her to focus on more pressing issues - like the book she was reading.

Within the hour, she had finished it, the ending coming far too quickly for her liking. She set the book aside, half of her proud she had read such an exciting book and the other half more confused than ever. The more smutty books she read, the more she wondered if the things she read about were purely fantasy. She could see the appeal of certain things, but were they actually possible? Or comfortable?

“Why are you frowning?” Azriel murmured, leaning forward to pepper her jaw with kisses until she was smiling again. “Did your book have a sad ending?”

“What? Oh, no, it was good,” Gwyn assured him absently, tilting her head to give him access to her neck. She let out a small sigh when his lips touched the sensitive skin below her ear, marking a trail along her throat.

“Mmm, what was it about?” Azriel asked against her, his breath tickling her skin. She shivered, but not from the chilly autumn air. She tried to focus on the plot of her book, what little plot there was, but she was far too distracted by the lovely feeling of his lips on her skin. “Gwyn?”

“Hmm?”

“Are you going to answer my question?”

“What question?”

He chuckled, pulling his head away, causing her eyes to snap open. She blinked rapidly, her body overly warm despite the cool night. Before she had time to recover her thoughts, Azriel had reached for her book, flipping it open to a random spot.

She blanched, grabbing for the book, but he held her tightly with one arm, keeping the book out of reach with the other. Of all the books for him to look at, this was one of the last ones she would want him to see. It was positively scandalous - even if she was rather intrigued by it.

“Azriel, give it back!” She demanded, her face turning crimson. Despite being more comfortable with the idea of sex, she still couldn’t help blushing in moments like this. She knew he would never judge her for what she read or thought, but she wasn’t totally used to discussing these things yet. “Give me the book, Az.”

“I just want to know what it was about. You were frowning. I want to know why,” Azriel shot at her, holding the book out to his side. “Answer my questions and I’ll give it back.”

“You’re a bumhole,” she tossed at him, crossing her arms and pouting. He gasped, feigning hurt. She rolled her eyes, refusing to give in.

“A bumhole? Really, Berdara?” Azriel tsked, nuzzling her neck despite her annoyance. “If that’s the worst you can do, remind me to teach you how to curse.”

She gaped at him, giving him a playful shove that he only laughed at. “I don’t need your lessons, thank you. Now give me my book.”

He affectionately tugged on her braid, undeterred by her display. “I told you, I’ll give it back if you answer my questions.”

“Promise?” She pressed, giving him a scathing look. He bit back a laugh, not bothering to hide his amusement.

“I promise, Bird,” he agreed, flashing that crooked grin that always made her heart flutter. She huffed, but conceded, settling against him.

“The book is a retelling of the Hades and Persephone legends,” she explained, ignoring the soft stroking of his hand along her arm. “It’s set in a modern world, but they still have a god-like structure, complete with Hades ruling a part of town that everyone thinks is bad but is really quite nice. Persephone ends up there, and then they fall in love.”

Azriel quietly hummed behind her, exaggerating his thoughtful demeanor. “That sounds nice. Why would that make you frown?”

“No reason,” she deflected, picking at the grass. She could feel him watching her, but she remained quiet, debating how much she wanted to say. He had told her she could talk to him about these things, and she wanted to, but she was nervous. After a few minutes though, she shook off her anxiety and decided to continue.

“Azriel, I was frowning because…” she trailed off again, trying to find the right words. He patiently waited, idly playing with her hair. “Because I was thinking about whether or not people really do some of the things in the book.”

She turned to him, meeting his curious stare. He tucked a stray lock of hair behind her ear, tilting his head inquisitively.

“What do you mean?” He pressed, running his thumb along her jaw. She shivered again, goosebumps spreading across her skin. “What kind of things?”

She looked at the ground for a moment, avoiding his gaze. She could feel her face growing warmer, but she pressed on. “Sex things. This book I was reading, the couple in it, they do…strange things. They like having sex in this room, in front of people. And it’s not just that, some of the positions they get into…well, I’m not sure some of it is entirely feasible. And I’ve read other books where I’ve wondered the same thing. Certain positions seem like they might be…uncomfortable.”

He quirked an eyebrow, a grin teasing his lips. “What do you mean by uncomfortable?”

“I… nothing, I’m not sure if they work comfortably in real life. That’s all,” she rambled, blushing furiously.

“Why wouldn’t they?“ He pushed, smirking devilishly, his eyes filled with heat. She shifted between his legs, her body suddenly warm and tingly everywhere.

“I don’t know. Don’t you need…friction?”

“It is nice, yes,” he grinned, his face positively smug now. She should have been annoyed with him, but she couldn’t find it in her. She liked the devious look he had in his eyes, the one that told her she could say almost anything and he would still be utterly satisfied that she was talking to him about these things. It gave her courage to go on.

“Well, I’m just not sure if certain positions allow for the right amount of friction,” she said nervously, focusing on his face instead of the pounding of her heart and the growing warmth between her legs.

“What kind of positions?”

“You know, the ones in novels,” she replied, shuffling between his legs again and unexpectedly finding a new bit of hardness when she pressed against him. Oh gods. She hadn’t realized this conversation was having quite that effect on him.

“No, I don’t know,” he quipped, not bothering to hide his amusement, eyes dancing with mischievous desire. “According to Nesta, these novels can be very interesting. I don’t know how adventurous the positions you’re referring to are.”

She tried to subtly shift her body away from his, to give him space, but he held her firmly, causing her body to press tighter against his obvious hardness. She sucked in a breath, her mind going fuzzy.

“Well, I’m sure you do know,” she argued weakly. She was far too distracted by his hard body pressing into her backside. “I’m not explaining it to you.”

He leaned in, grabbing her chin and tilting her face up to place a soft kiss to her mouth. He hovered there, his eyes heavy lidded and his lips brushing against hers. She sucked in a breath, taken off guard by his reaction. She had expected teasing, not whatever this was.

“Then show me,” he finally murmured against her mouth, their breaths mingling. Her face flushed an even deeper shade of red, her eyes going wide. He wasn’t serious. He couldn’t be. There was no way he actually thought she would show him.

“I can’t show you,” she insisted, caught between the delicious sensation of his body pressing into her and his desire filled gaze. It felt so good, but she couldn’t think.

“Why not?” He asked, his voice the deep honeyed tone that always undid her. Gods she loved his voice. She clamped her thighs together, acutely aware of every inch where their bodies touched.

“Because we're…we’re…I don’t know,” she gestured wildly. She wasn’t even sure why she was protesting. A part of her wanted to show him. Wanted to have him teach her about these things. And if she was honest, that part far outweighed the side that was still resisting. “And I’m not…we’re not…doing that.”

“Doing what?” He pushed, holding her gaze.

“You know what.”

His lips turned up at the corners, his face still almost brushing hers. He studied her for a moment longer, then finally spoke. “We can keep our clothes on,” he suggested, his thumb making lazy strokes along her jaw. “Just show me. I promise I won’t do anything you don’t want me to do.”

She sighed, giving in. She was far too curious to keep arguing. Besides, she could trust Azriel. He would always make sure she felt safe. And she was tired of being afraid, of letting her fears control her. She wanted to do this, wanted to learn from him.

“Okay, but…” she trailed off, chewing on her bottom lip while he watched her intently. “Don’t laugh. Okay?”

“Gwyn, honey, I won’t,” Azriel soothed her, his free hand cupping her face. “I promise. I just want to know what you’re curious about. Show me. Please.”

His last words only made her heart race more. There was something so…sensual about the way he said it, like he found her curiosity…sexy. And maybe he did. The thought drove her forward, her body moving without question.

She pulled out of his grasp, shaking off the blanket and moving to her knees between his legs while he steadily watched. Then she carefully straddled him, placing her hands gingerly on his shoulders. His hands came to rest on her waist, holding her there but not tugging her any closer.

“Is this the first position you were curious about?” He asked, his gaze dipping to where their bodies almost met. She had been in his arms like this a few times, but never when she was so openly aroused. It was a new sensation, but it felt nice. More than nice.

She hesitantly nodded, somewhat unsure of herself. “Yes, it seems feasible, but…I was curious how it works. Does the female have to do everything?”

He softly chuckled, pulling her slightly closer, just enough so she could feel his hardened length barely grazing her core. She held back a gasp, the sensation sending a jolt of awareness through her. Her heart was pounding, yet she didn’t want to stop. The way Azriel was looking at her, with a mixture of desire and the softness she knew he rarely showed anyone, held her in place, her body utterly pliant in his strong arms.

“No, the female doesn’t have to do all the work,” he explained, one hand slowly gliding along her side. “But she does have all the control. If she wants things to stop, she can stop them. Or vice versa.”

“Oh, that’s nice,” Gwyn mumbled, unable to ignore how warm she was becoming. It was like her skin was burning. All she could think about was the aching between her legs. A part of her wanted to push into him more, to find out how he might react, but she wasn’t sure if she should.

“Gwyn, are there other positions you’re curious about?” Azriel finally asked when she kept staring at him. She blinked, bringing herself back to the moment.

“Yes, but I’m not exactly sure if you want me to show you the next one,” she admitted, avoiding his gaze as she thought of what she had read. It was something she had never seen before, but it had intrigued her immensely. “I’m also not sure how it would work with your wings.”

“Show me and I’ll worry about my wings,” Azriel smiled, holding her hips. She didn’t entirely want to move, but she was curious, so she obeyed his command.

“I need you on your back,” she instructed, placing her hands on his chest.

He instantly obeyed, a devilish smirk forming as he shifted away from the tree, his hands still cradling her hips. When he was clear of the tree, he carefully laid back, his wings spread out to his sides. She stared at him for a moment, then began moving.

She crawled over his torso, attempting to avoid his wings. His hands dropped to her calves, occasionally stroking them as she continued moving, pausing when she was halfway up his chest. He gave her an encouraging smile, his eyes dancing with mischief. She was almost certain he knew where she was going, but she plowed on, ignoring the small burst of anxiety she felt.

With one last look at him, she moved farther up, inching herself over him until she was hovering above his face. He moved his wings, allowing her to straddle him easier, but she still held her body rigid so there was a generous amount of space between her core and his mouth. She suddenly felt ridiculous and embarrassed. What if this wasn’t something people normally did?

Shame flooded her as she tried scrambling off him, but he suddenly grasped her thighs, holding her tightly above him. She froze, looking down to meet his gaze only to find his face full of unconcealed desire, his eyes darting between her face and her core. She held perfectly still, terrified to say anything.

Azriel seemed to sense her worry and broke the silence, his voice husky and breathless. “Gwyn, honey, I hate asking this, but what part of this position were you unsure of?”

“Umm, I had never read about it before,” she began, her hands shaking at her sides. “I wasn’t sure if people really did this or if…if it was just something in novels.”

“Oh, people really do this,” Azriel drawled, his eyes darting back to her core for a moment. His tongue darted out to moisten his lips, his neck flushed. “It’s quite fun. I’m rather fond of this position actually.”

She let out a breathless “Oh” of shock at his confession, her body suddenly trembling from how stiffly she was holding herself above him. She couldn’t move, couldn’t breathe. She should probably say something, but her mouth seemed to have stopped working, her mind unable to focus on anything other than how close his mouth was to very sensitive parts of her body. Yet, despite her anxiety, she felt no fear. Only an aching sense of need, like her body desperately wanted what only the male below her could offer.

Azriel seemed to sense her frenzied emotions because his gaze snapped to hers, the heat in his eyes immediately turning to worry. Before she could even process it, she was on her back, one of Azriel’s scarred hands cradling her head in the grass while his other arm gently stroked her side, his body hovering next to her.

“Gwyn, are you okay?” He questioned, fear filling his face. “I shouldn’t have said that. Bird, I’m so sorry, I shouldn’t have pushed you. We can stop.”

She blinked dazedly, staring up at him through lowered lashes as her brain slowly started working again. “No, I’m fine. I was…a little shocked. That’s all. But I want to keep going.”

The words sounded distant, like they weren’t coming from her own mouth, but every word was true. She wanted to keep exploring this with him. She liked the way he had been looking at her, and she liked the way his body felt against hers. And, if she was totally honest, she was rather curious how the other two positions she had wondered about would feel with Azriel. His body seemed to fit so perfectly with hers, and she wanted to feel him close again.

“Actually, the next position requires me below you anyway,” she explained with a soft smile, reaching up to brush his hair away from his worried face. “Azriel, I’m fine. Can we please keep going?”

He studied her, a muscle in his jaw working furiously, but eventually he nodded, carefully moving his hand away from her head. He gave her a nervous smile, running his fingers through his hair before nodding at her to continue.

“Um, you have to do most of the work for this one,” she shyly admitted, leaning up on her elbows. “I’m not really sure how to explain it.”

“Is it in the book you were reading?”

“Yes,” she nodded.

“How about you show me the passage it’s in?” He suggested, his voice oddly strained. She wondered if he was as flustered as she was.

She reached for the book, quickly flipping through the pages until she found the scene she wanted. When she had located it, she handed the book to Azriel, gulping down air as his eyes scanned the pages. She waited, hoping he wouldn’t find the position strange.

“Oh, I see,” he mumbled, a slight smirk teasing his lips again. “Are you sure you want me to show you this position, Gwyn?”

“Yes,” she insisted, ignoring the pulsing ache between her legs. She knew her scent had shifted by now, but, for once, she didn’t care. She just wanted to feel his body against hers again. “I want to know if it’s comfortable or not.”

“Okay,” he said simply, holding her gaze before he finally moved. She rolled onto her side, knowing the position required it, and then she watched him.

Azriel carefully hooked one of her legs over his right arm, gripping her thigh while he moved to straddle her other leg. He moved painfully slow until he was seated between her legs, her thigh cradled in his large hand, but he remained a small distance away, his lower body not quite reaching her core. She knew he would have to be closer to fully demonstrate the position, but he stayed motionless.

“Gwyn, honey, how much farther do you want me to go?” He asked, his voice firm but rough. The scent of his arousal reached her, turning her mind into a haze of tantalizing warmth and need. “I can stop here. Or I can keep going. Tell me what you want.”

She stared up at him, the warmth of his body against hers the best kind of distraction. Gods this felt good, and she wanted more. Desperately.

“Keep going,” she demanded, voice shaking. Her body was on fire, but she didn’t want to stop. “I want you to show me.”

He studied her but didn’t argue. After a long moment, he slid closer, shifting forward until he was fully pressed against her core, her leg wrapped firmly around him. She let out a small gasp when his hard body made contact with her, a hand flying to her mouth as the sound escaped her.

His mouth fell open, his eyes darting to hers, and if she wasn’t mistaken, his hands began shaking. She slowly uncovered her mouth, looking at him shyly while he sat frozen between her legs. She could tell he was torn between arousal and worry, but she couldn’t think of a single thing to say to calm him.

She was lost in her own emotions, her body urging her to shift her hips, to press herself more tightly into him. It felt so sinfully good having him like this. Her breasts had grown heavy, her nipples peaking beneath the thick leather, her core aching fiercely. She had never felt anything like it.

“Gwyneth, are you okay?” Azriel forced out, his voice so low it was almost a growl. That only made her warmer, the clear desire in his tone seeping into her bones. “Gwyn? Say something.”

“I’m fine,” she replied slowly, her voice quivering. “I understand how this position works now. Thank you.”

Much to her dismay, he slowly nodded, taking her words as a dismissal. Before she could stop him, he moved away from her, carefully setting her leg back down and kneeling beside her. She sat up slowly, watching him unsteadily breathing, her own breath coming out ragged.

“Azriel, are you okay?” She timidly asked when she had somewhat caught her breath. Her body still ached with need, but she could at least think for a moment. He blinked at her, chest heaving while he chewed on his bottom lip. Her eyes fell to his mouth, unable to resist when he bit his lip like that. She found it sexy and adorable.

“Of course, Bird,” he assured her, his hands absently running through his hair. “Are there…any other things you were curious about?”

She nodded slowly. “Just one. But we can stop if you want.”

“No, I’m fine,” he insisted, brushing his hands off on his thighs. “We can keep going as long as you want to. Show me what it is.”

She hesitantly stood, offering him a hand on her way up. He obediently stood with her, both of them brushing themselves off before looking at each other. She tucked a lock of loose hair behind her ears, then shyly met his gaze, his eyes still brimming with heat.

“Umm, you’ll have to hold me for this one,” she instructed, moving forward to lace her arms around his neck. He obeyed, reaching down to grab her just below her backside. She shivered, losing herself in the feeling of his chest pressed firmly against hers.

“Like this?”

“Yes.”

He lifted her without further questions, allowing her to wrap her legs securely around his waist, just like they had when he had taken her to the lake. He waited for more instructions, giving her time to try and rip her mind away from the memory of that wonderful night. She wanted to feel his bare skin against her again, to feel his hard muscles underneath her fingertips.

“In the book, he lifts her like this,” she finally whispered, unable to tear her eyes away from his heated stare. “They’re in the middle of a room, and he lifts her and then he starts…he starts…well, you know.”

“Fucking her,” Azriel offered when she trailed off. She nodded, her mouth suddenly very dry. “Does he lean against anything, or does he stay in the middle of the room?”

“Eventually he moves against something, but he starts…everything while they’re still in the middle of the room,” she explained, swallowing rapidly. “I’m not entirely sure how that works. It seems like our…parts aren’t aligned properly.”

He slowly smiled, his eyes dipping to where her core rested near the base of his stomach. “You’re right, but it’s still possible. It just takes a little bit of maneuvering to make things…align.”

“How?”

“Let me show you,” he replied, his hands squeezing her backside gently. She shivered again, goosebumps erupting along her skin. “Loosen your grip on me to where only your palms are on my neck.”

“But…” she began protesting, worried she would slip from his arms.

“Trust me. Just do it,” he firmly but softly commanded, his voice dipping back to that delicious, honeyed tone. Her resistance crumbled, her arms moving almost of their own volition. She did as he instructed, his arms the only thing keeping her upright.

Then his hands moved, bringing a gasp to her lips as they slid across her backside, dropping her body lower, her legs slipping slightly as he dropped her down. Before she could protest again, he stopped, his hands once again firmly holding her. But now their position had changed.

Her body was now slightly angled back, almost like he was going to drop her, but their…parts were perfectly aligned. One movement and his hips would be grinding into hers. It made her breath catch, heat flooding to her core as she slowly understood how this position worked.

“It seems like a lot of work for the male,” she breathlessly laughed, immediately regretting it a moment later. The laugh made her body shake, which only brought him closer, the movement vibrating through her core. “Holding up the female, I mean. While also doing…you know.”

He let out a sound that was somewhere between a laugh and groan, his hands gripping her tighter. “It can be a lot of work, yes. That’s why I prefer being against a wall or something. It takes some of the strain off.”

“Show me,” she murmured, the words leaving her mouth faster than she could think them through. All she knew was that she didn’t want this to end; she wanted to feel him as close as possible, for as long as possible.

He blinked, searching her face for signs of hesitation, but she simply stared back, wanting nothing more than to have him pressed tightly against her. All her normal anxiety was quickly fading the longer he held her. She felt safe and warm and dizzy with need. It was unlike anything she had ever experienced, and she wanted more. With him. With the male who had helped her reach this point.

When he was satisfied she wasn’t going to take back her command, he slowly moved toward the large tree he had previously sat against. He hoisted her slightly higher, causing her core to drag against his hard frame. She bit back another gasp, steadily watching his face while he walked to the tree.

He carefully pinned her against the oak, then, almost without thinking, he leaned into her, sending a jolt of unexpected pleasure to shoot through her when his hardened length pressed firmly against her core. This time, she couldn’t hold back the sound that escaped her, the loud moan leaving her lips before she could fully process what was happening.

He instantly froze, his eyes widening with worry even while his body trembled with the same need she was feeling. She gripped his shoulders, her eyes fluttering shut as the sensation of his…his cock, yes that’s what it was, pressed against her. Oh gods, she didn’t know what to do. Her body was screaming at her to rock her hips, to pull him closer, to kiss him until she forgot her own name.

Azriel seemed to be having the same internal struggle, a silent battle waging in his eyes as his fingers bit into her ass. His head dropped, his eyes darting to her lips while he fought whatever instincts were warring in his mind. She wanted to tell him to kiss her, to let go, but she couldn’t speak, couldn’t think.

There was only her and Azriel, wrapped tightly around each other. She had expected to feel a small bit of fear or anxiety when they began exploring this side of their relationship, but instead she just felt undiluted need and want. She wanted him. In every possible way. She knew this was only the beginning of what she might share with him, and she was filled with excitement.

Even with everything she had been through, this felt right. It felt natural. She knew without a doubt in her mind that Azriel would never hurt her, that he would be gentle when she needed him to be, and he would never push her past where she felt comfortable.

And something about that knowledge was somehow even sexier than anything else he had done. She could give herself to him when she was ready, and she knew she had nothing to fear from it.

With those thoughts swirling through her brain, she buried her hands in the hair at the nape of his neck, tugging him down, their lips hovering a breath apart, eliciting a groan from him. She wanted him to move, to shift his hips and show her exactly what this position felt like.

But just before she could kiss him, his head shot up, the desire in his eyes quickly changing into the familiar icy facade of the warrior who had trained her.

“Someone’s moving,” he informed her, quickly kissing her forehead before setting her gently on her feet, leaving her with an aching hollowness between her legs. Unfortunately, she would have to explore that later; they had a job to do now.

He pulled her to the edge of their little outcropping, tucking her to his side so she was half shielded by his large body. She peaked around his arm, following the direction his shadows were now darting, his eyes focused on something far away. She spotted movement in the distance, someone striding quickly through the garden toward the road that she knew led away from the estate. Just as they disappeared into the trees, hiding them from view, Azriel turned to her, softly cupping her face.

“Gwyn, there is another spy waiting along that road. I need to go speak with them,” he explained, speaking in a firm voice that left no room for argument. “I don’t want to leave you here, but if I take you down there, then I need you to follow my every command. No arguments. Okay?”

“Okay, I can do that,” she quickly agreed. “Do you think something is going to go wrong?”

“No, it should be fine,” he promised her, his thumb stroking her cheek. “But I’d rather not take chances. So, please just follow my lead this time.”

She nodded, holding his burning gaze. Satisfied by her agreement, he took her hand in his, tucking her against his side again as he quickly winnowed them. They appeared in an unfamiliar patch of trees a moment later, his shadows shielding them from view. Azriel paused, taking in his surroundings, then guided her forward.

She was suddenly grateful she had been training for this, otherwise she wasn’t sure she could have been as quiet as he needed her to be. She sucked in a breath when a figure appeared before them, steeling herself for whatever awaited them. But it was only one of Azriel’s spies, the one he had mentioned.

Azriel approached the spy, whose face was almost entirely concealed by the hood of his cloak, and began whispering, holding Gwyn’s hand firmly the whole time. They were speaking too low for Gwyn to hear everything, but she caught enough to understand. After a few moments, the other spy nodded to Azriel, bowed to her, then disappeared into the night, following the person they had seen leave the estate.

Azriel turned to her once his spy faded into nothing, cupping her face with his free hand. “Gwyn, you heard enough of that to understand what’s happening, right?”

She nodded. She knew the other spy would trail the mysterious person as far as they could, leaving Azriel and Gwyn to watch the estate for the night. She had already mentally prepared herself for this. After all, it was part of the job, she knew that.

“Good, then I don’t need to explain,” Azriel sighed, stroking her face softly. “It’s up to you what you want to do, Bird. I can quickly take you home, or you can stay with me for the night. I’m not leaving until sunrise though.”

“I want to stay with you,” she instantly responded. There was no question in her mind, she wanted to help him, even if that meant sitting with him until the sun rose.

“Okay,” he conceded, for once, not questioning her. He wrapped his arms around her, winnowing them back to their hidden spot on the hill. Without a word, Azriel settled back against the large oak tree, on high alert. She obediently settled between his legs once more, wrapping the blanket around them both and leaning back against his chest.

They both watched the estate carefully, Azriel informing her that his shadows would watch the perimeters while they surveyed the back of the house. They only spoke occasionally for the rest of the night, focusing their attention on their duties. When the sky began to lighten, Azriel quietly urged her to her feet, taking her in his arms and winnowing them home, their job complete for the night.

*****************************************************

Tags: @chloepereyra|@lovelyladymayyy|@erisvanserrarailmepls|@valkygwyn|@remellarome|@inejjg|@azrielsgirl|@gisellefigue08|@acourtofmidnightsnacks|@67impalagirl13|@illyrian-valkyrie|@arinbelle|@amandapearls|@bittermuire|@cauldron-blessedarcheron1|@starbornsinger|@princessofmerchants|@allygug|@zooni92802|@molinden|@tallyovie|@siyeoncruella|@thelittlebookishcorner|@zerxfaithinhumanity|@words-are-what-i-hide-behind|@vasudharaghavan|@gwynkyrie|@niytavia|@fairytamy|@madie2200|@icarusave|@spookylightkidranch|@mirubyai|@gwynsazriel|@live-the-fangirl-life|@bookprofessor|@ddsworldofbooks|@positivewitch|@cursebreaker29|@zullyluly|@violentdelightshaveviolentends12|@faithisilliterate|@b00kishwh0re|@spookyfreakturtlefire|@inejbrekkxr|@whereisvaughan|@aelingalathyniusrailme |@secretlovelybeauty|@gwynrielsupremacist|@bookologist|@unpopularcharacterstan|@moodymelanist|@discorrdiia|@generalnesta|@flora-shadowshine|@amaranthas-whore|@georgialeighc13| @sia-r| @gpxxx|@annikaschwietz | @rewiue

Helion and Lady A bask in each others presence while enjoying some pillow talk.

If you would like to be tagged in updates, please let me know!

Helion x Lady A

Warnings: Fluff

Word Count: 539

Masterlist

Helion let out a satisfied sigh as he fell back into the pillows, tugging his mate against him and securely wrapping his arms around her bare waist.

“My love, you have once again, wrecked me,” he laughed, stroking the former Lady of Autumn’s back as they cuddled in bed. “How do you expect me to recover from that?”

“Mmm, I’m sure you’ll be fine in, oh, 15 minutes or so,” she replied, letting her fingers graze his thigh softly. He shivered dramatically, giving her ass a playful squeeze.

“Perhaps, but at the rate you’re going, I’m not sure even I can keep up, darling,” he teased, toying with the bright, fiery hair draped across her back. “You’ve been insatiable lately, my love. Not that I’m complaining, of course.”

Her head shot up, an odd look in her eyes as she pulled out of his arms to sit up, turning her head away from him. He instantly turned serious, leaning up to wrap his arms around her waist from behind, resting his head on her shoulder.

“What’s wrong, darling?” He finally asked after a few minutes of silence. He could sense something was off, but he wasn’t sure what. “Did I say something?”

“Oh, no, I’m fine,” she assured him, her voice full of emotion. “I’m perfect actually. It’s nothing, really. Did you see Lucien and Elain the other day?” They came by to visit.“

He frowned at the change of subject, but obliged her inquiry. "No, I knew they had come, but I was occupied with work. How were they?”

“They’re wonderful,” she sighed dreamily, fondly looking toward the desk in the corner where she kept portraits of her family. “They were stopping here before going to see Eris and his mate, Demi.”

He patiently nodded, letting her chatter even though he was more curious what had shifted her mood. “Demi is expecting, isn’t she?”

His mate nodded happily. “Yes, she’s due in late Autumn. And Elain and Lucien had news as well.”

“Oh?”

“Yes, they wanted to tell us together, but I’m afraid they couldn’t hide it,” she gave him a knowing smile. “Elain kept throwing up while she was here. She’s pregnant as well.”

He gaped, then pulled his mate in for a kiss, tugging her back down into the covers. “That’s wonderful news,” he whispered, happy tears welling in his eyes when he pulled back to look at his mate. “We’re going to be grandparents to two beautiful babes soon.”

“Yes, but…” his mate smiled, giving him that odd look from earlier again. “We won’t just be grandparents, my darling.”

“Of course, we’re also high lord and lady,” he stated, not catching her meaning. “Is there something else.”

“Yes…” she slowly said, pulling one of his hands to rest on her stomach. “We’re going to be parents again as well.”

He froze, her words taking several moments to sink in, and then he was kissing her, holding her tightly to him while happy tears streamed down his face, mingling with hers.

When he finally released her, they fell back into the pillows, smiling and laughing as they imagined what their life would look like in a few short months, filled with happiness and life and hope.

Gwyn and Azriel enjoy a game night with the other couples.

If you would like to be tagged in updates, please let me know!

Read on AO3

Azriel x Gwyn

Warnings: Fluff

Word Count: 502

Masterlist

“Why are you just sitting there?” Cassian whined to Azriel, bringing a smug smile to his face. “Shouldn’t you be helping your mate?”

Azriel laughed, sipping his wine before responding. “I am helping. I’m holding her wine.”

Cassian rolled his eyes, but didn’t argue. Azriel smirked, knowing it wouldn’t matter what he did now, Gwyn had the game more than under control. She was already poised and ready to throw the dagger in her hand while simultaneously teasing Emerie and Mor about how badly their own attempts had gone.

What had started as a simple game night with all the couples had turned into a raucous evening of the most ridiculous challenges Azriel had ever heard. Each time he and Gwyn beat the rest of the group at something, the challenges would get more and more ludicrous.

From throwing a dagger at a tiny cherry a hundred yards away, which Gwyn was currently doing, to balancing a glass of wine on their head for as long as possible while everyone else threw random items at them, which Azriel had just completed.

No matter the challenge though, he and his mate kept coming out victorious, demolishing the competition even with Feyre, Rhys, Nesta, Cassian, Mor and Emerie all trying to beat them. Gwyn and Azriel were simply a perfect match when it came to competition. The only way to beat them was to pit them against each other, which no one had yet thought of.

When Gwyn’s dagger sliced through the cherry, he let out a whoop of encouragement, leaping up and twirling her around in a circle before planting a kiss on her perfect mouth. She giggled, the copious amounts of alcohol Mor, Feyre and Cassian had provided her with only making her more excitable than normal - but it had no effect on her gaming abilities.

“Did you see me?” She grinned, wrapping her arms around his neck while everyone else laughed, more wine being poured as they spoke.

“Of course, I saw you. It was a beautiful throw, love,” he complimented, carrying her back to the sofa and settling her onto his lap. She snuggled into him, taking her wine back from where Cassian had just refilled it, her cheeks delightfully rosy from all the wine she had already consumed.

“All right, what’s next?” Rhys called, looking toward Nesta who was busy preparing the next game. “Please tell me we’re not playing poker. Gwyn has already beat me three times tonight.”

“Oh, stop whining. You’re just jealous,” Feyre teased, patting her mate on the head. Mor and Emerie laughed, throwing what looked like a pirate hat at Cassian as Nesta began giving instructions for their next challenge.

Azriel didn’t pay attention, not caring if he won or lost whatever wild competition Nesta had thought up. He already had his prize right in front of him. There was nothing else that could make him any happier than having his lovely Gwyn in his arms, their mating bond thrumming steadily between them.

Elain begins to see Lucien in a different light when they share a midnight snack.

If you would like to be tagged in updates, please let me know!

Read on AO3

Elain x Lucien

Warnings: Fluff

Word Count: 773

Masterlist

Elain tiptoed toward the kitchen, trying to be as quiet as possible despite almost everyone in the house still being up. But Lucien might be asleep, and she would hate to wake him. After all, if the loud moans and other sounds coming from the side of the house with Vassa and Jurian were any indication, Lucien probably wasn’t sleeping that well. He could use any sleep he could manage; she wouldn’t be the one to ruin his rest.

She reached the entry to the kitchen, but just as she was about to push the door open, she heard a clatter from the other side. She rushed in, unsure what she would do if it was an intruder but worried all the same. When she took in the sight in front of her, she froze.

Lucien was standing at the island in the middle of the room, a large slice of apple pie in front of him, the fork he had been using on the floor next to him, a guilty expression on his face as he met her gaze.

She smiled timidly, pulling the robe she had thrown over her nightgown tighter as heat flooded her body. He let out a shocked laugh, the sound vibrating through her bones as she stared at his very bare torso, his rippling muscles distracting her in spite of herself. She always seemed to get flustered around him.

“Sorry, I didn’t know you were in here,” she mumbled, shuffling awkwardly by the door. He quickly recovered himself, picking up his dropped fork and throwing it in the sink before grabbing the rest of the pie from the ice cooler.

“It’s okay, there’s plenty for both of us,” he held up the pie with a nervous grin. She giggled, slowly walking to the table rather than the island. He instantly followed, carrying the pie, a fresh set of plates and forks and his unfinished slice with him.

He served her a slice, then dug back into his own piece. “Trouble sleeping?” He asked as she dug into the pie.

She nodded, sighing happily when the flavorful dessert hit her taste buds. “Yes, but it’s fine,” she assured him, already diving in for a second bite. “This is amazing! Who made this?”

He chuckled, slowly chewing his own bite. She was already half finished with her slice and he had barely taken a few bites.

“My mother made it,” he explained, watching her devour her slice, sounds of delight escaping her with every bite. “Eris brought it today when he stopped by.”

“Mmmm, I need the recipe,” she gushed, shocked at herself when she realized she had finished and he still had half a slice. “It’s really good. Your mother must be an excellent baker.”

“She is,” he agreed with a smile. He slowly ate his pie while she sat quietly, not wanting to leave despite having finished her midnight snack. She felt oddly comfortable here, enjoying Lucien’s presence. The more time she spent with him, the more she liked him. He was fascinating, and he never treated her like a child. And it didn’t hurt that he was one of the most handsome males she had ever seen.

“If you’d like, I can tell Eris to bring my mother for a visit next time he comes,” Lucien finally said, breaking her out of the sudden fascination she had with the interesting cords of muscles on his shoulders.

“Oh, umm, that would be nice,” she smiled, blushing furiously. “I’d like that. I’d like to meet your mother.”

A smile teased his lips as he took another bite of pie. “I’ll write to Eris in the morning.”

She grinned, unable to stop herself from giving him her best smile. He was so thoughtful; it never failed to make her burst with happiness, even when she wasn’t sure she wanted to.

His head dipped, his fork extending toward the last bite of his pie. Before she could stop herself, words slipped from her mouth.

“Are you sure you want the last bite of that?” She blurted, her face growing warmer as his eyes shot to her. She feared she had crossed a line, but he suddenly burst into laughter, grabbing the pie pan and serving her another slice of pie while he watched her in amusement.

“Here, I don’t think either of us are getting much sleep tonight,” he teased, a scream of pleasure from above emphasizing his point. She laughed, grabbing her fork and digging in as he served himself a second slice, the two of them falling into an easy conversation as the night faded slowly into dawn.

Gwyn teaches Azriel how to braid her hair.

If you would like to be tagged in updates, please let me know!

Read on AO3

Azriel x Gwyn

Warnings: Fluff

Word Count: 517

Masterlist

“Over, then under,” Gwyn instructed for what felt like the tenth time. Azriel groaned in frustration, his fingers tugging on her hair as gently as possible despite her many commands to pull slightly tighter.

She felt her hair come loose from the braid again, Azriel’s deep sigh telling her he was feeling defeated. She tilted her head back, meeting his frustrated hazel eyes with a smile.

“It’s okay, you’ll get it,” she encouraged him, knowing how much he hated when he didn’t immediately become an expert in a new skill.

He had asked her a few nights ago to teach her to braid her hair, and they had been practicing every night since. So far, he could do a perfect regular braid, but now that she had moved onto teaching him French braids, he was struggling.

It was far more intricate, and he was finding it difficult to put enough tension on her hair to keep the braid in place. She had told him time and time again that it wouldn’t cause her pain, but he had still struggled to pull her hair tight enough.

“I don’t know how you females manage to do this so effortlessly,” Azriel huffed, stroking her cheek softly. “I’ve watched you and Nesta a million times, but I can’t seem to get it. It always slips when I reach your neck.”

“It takes practice, my love,” she reassured him, squeezing his hand. “You just have to keep trying.”

“I don’t want to hurt your scalp,” he whined, leaning down from his perch on the bed to kiss her softly. She laughed lightly, rubbing his leg where it hung next to her.

“Azriel, stop worrying, you won’t hurt me,” she promised, settling herself back against the side of the bed again. He sighed, but didn’t argue, returning his focus to her hair.

“Okay, tell me again, am I supposed to pull more hair every time I loop a new section over?” He questioned, seeking her instruction before continuing.

She nodded, toying with the leather band in her hand that they had yet to use so far. “Yes, and make sure to keep the hair tight or else it won’t hold,” she explained. “That’s why it keeps slipping at my neck. It’s not tight enough.”

“Okay,” he took a deep breath, steadying himself before he began. Then he separated her hair into three sections as she had told him earlier, diligently trying to braid her hair while she chattered to him about her day, telling him about the books she had read and the new maneuver Cassian had taught her in training.

Even though his braid wasn’t perfect, with a few more tries he finally got it right, collapsing back onto the bed with a relieved sigh as he finished tying the leather band on.

She leaped up in excitement, quickly checking her hair in the mirror before pouncing on him in the bed.

“You did it!” She exclaimed, not giving him time to respond before capturing his mouth with hers, pushing him back into the bed to reward him for his hard work.

Title: Azriel POV - Family Dinner

Azriel takes Gwyn to family dinner for the first time.

If you would like to be tagged in updates, please let me know!

Read on AO3

Azriel x Gwyn

Warnings: Fluff

Word Count: 6,297

Masterlist

“Gwyn, honey, relax,” Azriel patiently chided as he guided Gwyn toward the front door of the River Estate, both of their heads lowered to shield from the unexpected rain. Autumn had set in early, the past week turning from warm to chilly in the blink of an eye. Azriel and Gwyn, along with Nesta and Cassian, were both bundled in rain jackets to keep dry in the relentless downpour.

“Iam relaxed,” she insisted, despite the proof to the contrary. She was clinging to him so tightly his knuckles had turned white. He didn’t complain though or push her further. He knew she was anxious, so he kept his mouth shut, quietly following Nesta and Cassian into the house.

He watched Gwyn blink in the bright entryway, his worry increasing as the onslaught of voices, light and color greeted them. Mor and Emerie immediately pounced on them, drawing Gwyn in for hugs while he continued holding her hand. Then it was Feyre who came over, introducing Gwyn to Nyx, who was squealing and flapping his wings happily.

He noticed Rhys about to greet them a moment later, and he quickly intervened, wanting to give Gwyn a moment to breathe. He steered her toward the coat closet, quietly taking her jacket and giving her a kiss to the forehead before taking her hand again. He studied her face closely but remained silent, worried she was going to get overwhelmed. Before he led her back out, she gave him a small smile, then followed him back to the rest of the group.

He spotted Lucien speaking to Rhys and was about to steer her in their direction when they were intercepted by Feyre again, followed closely by Elain. Rhys caught his eye across the room, sending a grim look at Elain.

Is something wrong? Azriel asked Rhys silently, knowing his brother would be paying attention with his powers. Rhys tucked his hands in his pockets, then glanced between Elain and Gwyn, watching Feyre introduce them.

Elain has been in an odd mood the past few days. I just don’t want her to be rude to Gwyn. Rhys replied, his words causing a flutter of fear in Azriel’s chest. Fuck. He should have told Gwyn about his history with Elain before bringing her here, but there was nothing he could do right now. That conversation would have to wait until later.

Do you have reason to believe she might be rude? He asked Rhys.

His brother nodded slightly before responding. Yes, she’s been having outbursts toward Feyre and Nesta, and even Mor on occasion lately. It’s been strange. I’ve been wanting to discuss it with you, but I know you have a lot on your plate.

You could have told me, especially if you thought I had something to do with it. Azriel silently huffed, a slight frown forming on his lips.

I know you have nothing to do with it, you’ve been too busy. Rhys replied with a smile. I don’t know what’s causing it. Neither does Feyre. That’s why I wanted to discuss it with you, but we can talk more later.

Azriel nodded, turning his attention to Gwyn. His silent conversation only lasted a few seconds, but it was enough for Azriel to decide Gwyn would be better off around Lucien. The irony of that thought was not missed by him. Not even a year ago he would never have believed something like that, but now, he trusted Lucien more than he would have thought possible.

Azriel softy coughed, bringing Gwyn’s attention to him. “Gwyn, Lucien is here. I’m sure he’d like to say hello. Shall we?”

She eagerly nodded, letting him lead her across the hall to Lucien and Rhys who were engaged in a lively discussion. They both turned to Gwyn as Azriel guided her over, their faces breaking into matching grins.

“Gwyn, it’s wonderful to see you again,” Lucien greeted her, bending his head in a bow.

“Agreed,” Rhys echoed, smiling fondly at her. “I was beginning to worry you were scared off by our superior poker skills.”

She laughed, the sound vibrating through Azriel’s body. He could feel her finally start to relax next to him, giving him a small sense of relief.

He continued watching her, quietly listening as she teased Rhys and Lucien. “I remember beating all of you at cards. Repeatedly. So, if losing equals superior, then yes, I am quite scared of your skills.”

He laughed with Rhys and Lucien, pride swelling in his chest at Gwyn’s unflinching bravery. Even with two males twice her size, she never backed down from anything. The group fell into easy conversation, Azriel only adding the occasional comment. He was still too worried from earlier to add much to the discussion. He had spent almost thirty minutes in his room with Gwyn before they left, convincing her that coming to dinner was no different than going to Mor’s party.

He had invited her to family dinner a few days ago and Gwyn had agreed with little hesitation. It had seemed natural to invite her, after all, in the time since he had returned from his mission, they had spent every minute possible with each other. And even Emerie had begun attending with Mor recently, so he thought it was the right time to bring Gwyn. But by the time the night had arrived, Gwyn had become a nervous wreck, anxiously pacing his room.

He had patiently listened to her, holding her in his arms until she had calmed down and promising her they could leave whenever she wanted. He had carefully tried hiding his own anxiety, not wanting to make her more nervous. He wanted her to enjoy herself, to feel comfortable here.

As Rhys led them into the dining room, Gwyn turned her attention to Azriel, meeting his worried gaze with a soft smile.

“Az, I’m okay,” she whispered, squeezing his hand gently. He squeezed back, his eyes searching her face. “You don’t need to worry so much.”

“I’m not,” he lied, knowing she would see right through it. He pulled out a chair for her as everyone filed in, biting back a laugh as she rolled her eyes. “Maybe a little. But only because I want you to enjoy yourself.”

“I will,” she insisted, letting him scoot her chair in for her. He squeezed her leg under the table as he settled in next to her, running his fingers along the spot where her leggings met her sweater, then moving back down her thigh. He leaned in to softly kiss her temple, forcing himself to finally relax.

As she turned her attention back to the group, he continued stroking her leg, letting the feeling of her soft body soothe him. She was seated on his left with Rhys on her other side, Feyre on the end of the table next to Rhys. Elain was on the other corner next to Feyre, with Nesta and Cassian directly across from Gwyn, and Lucien on Cassian’s other side. Mor sat on the opposite end from Feyre, with Emerie sitting on Azriel’s right side.

He continued watching Gwyn as food began being passed around, silently praying she was less anxious than she had been. Despite his promises to the contrary, he knew this dinner must feel different than Mor’s party. It was more intimate, more personal.

He forced himself to engage in the conversation next to him, adding in occasional comments, but he was mostly paying attention to Gwyn. He listened as Rhys began speaking with her, his interest piqued when the subject turned to her poker skills.

“I’ve been wondering, how did you learn to play poker?” Rhys asked Gwyn, drawing Azriel’s attention to them as Gwyn let out a giggle. “I don’t think I’ve lost that badly to anyone, except Azriel.”

“Well, he taught me,” she confessed. Azriel turned his head, noting the pretty blush coloring her cheeks.

“Rhys, she’s being modest,” he remarked, brushing Gwyn’s hair back softly as his chest once again swelled with pride. “I only taught her the basics. She figured out the rest on her own. She can even give me a run for my money now.”

Rhys chuckled, flashing his trademark smile. “Is that so?”

Gwyn nodded, her blush deepening as she ducked her head. Azriel squeezed her thigh before he continued speaking, her delightful blush urging him on.

“Yes, and she’s good at chess too,” Azriel told Rhys, giving Gwyn a crooked grin. “We started playing together a few months ago, and she’s only improved since.”

“Well, I’ll have to test that sometime,” Rhys replied, looking at Gwyn again. “Anytime you’d like, you’re welcome to come over and we can play a match or two.”

Gwyn timidly nodded, “I’d like that.”

“I also heard from Nesta that you’re interested in astronomy,” Rhys noted, holding Gwyn’s gaze. Azriel smiled, satisfied Gwyn was beginning to relax. He turned his attention back to his end of the table as Rhys and Gwyn continued talking, falling into comfortable conversation.

“Lucien, how have things been in the Mortal Lands?” Mor asked, the conversation having shifted from fashion to their regular lives. Azriel’s eyes darted to Lucien, noting how the other male subtly looked down the table toward his mate before answering.

“Things are fine, I suppose,” Lucien replied, a muscle ticking in his jaw.

Azriel stole a glance to his left, looking at Gwyn but noticing Elain gazing toward them. He wasn’t sure if she was looking at Gwyn or him. Either way, it was odd. Elain had been perfectly cordial since last solstice, so it would make no sense for her to suddenly be bothered by his involvement with Gwyn. He shook away the concern; it couldn’t be investigated now.

Mor glanced at Azriel, then continued speaking, holding Emerie’s hand under the table while she spoke to Lucien. “Have you been able to work out anything with the mortals there?”

“I’m afraid not,” Lucien admitted, his jaw muscle working again. Lucien turned to Azriel, seeming to weigh his words before continuing. “Actually, I was hoping to speak with you about that, Azriel.”

Azriel raised an eyebrow, silently encouraging Lucien to go on.

“We have noticed something…” Lucien trailed off, casting an odd glance toward Elain again before dropping his voice. “Something strange. I suspect foul play, perhaps involving the Mortal Queens.”

Azriel nodded, keeping his voice equally low as he responded. “If you’d like, I can come take a look. Perhaps set up patrols.”

“Could it be connected to Vallahan?” Mor suggested, her voice barely a whisper as Emerie’s eyes darted between them. Azriel nodded, his jaw clenching. Mor frowned. “I’d like to go with you then.”

“I would be grateful for both of your help,” Lucien graciously bowed his head, painting a placid expression on his face despite the tone of the conversation.

“We’ll plan to come as soon as we can,” Azriel promised, frustration with himself sinking in as Mor carefully changed the conversation again to avoid suspicion from the rest of the table, allowing Azriel to sink into a brooding silence.

He was missing something; he could feel it. He kept hitting dead ends in Vallahan, and now this. He would wager anything the two situations were connected, but he couldn’t figure out how. He remained quiet as dinner continued, his jaw set, barely hearing the conversations around him.

He looked at Gwyn again when she suddenly leaned into him, concern in her teal eyes. He gave her a tight smile as he took her hand under the table, setting their joined hands on his leg. His shadows flitted between them, ignoring him as they tugged the hem of her sweater, their agitation obvious.

When the group finally rose to go into the living area, Gwyn tightly held onto his hand under the table, a silent request to stay. He remained in his seat, urging Mor and Emerie, who were waiting, to go ahead.

“Is everything all right?” He whispered, holding her gaze as the rest of the group filed out. His shadows calmed slightly, softly twirling around her hair.

“I’m fine, I was worried about you,” she responded unexpectedly. He grazed his knuckles along her cheek, satisfaction filling him when she leaned into his touch. “You seem tense. Do you want to talk about it?”

He shook his head slowly, trying to conceal his frustration. “Not yet. I shouldn’t be thinking about work.”

“Azriel, it’s okay,” she soothed him, running her hand along his arm. “How about you show me the gardens before we go in with everyone else?”

He raised his eyebrows at her quizzically. “It’s raining.”

“So? We can stay near the house.”

He chuckled, knowing it was no use arguing when she had set her mind to something. “Okay, I’ll show you the gardens.”

He pushed back his chair, then pulled her chair out, taking her hand again as he guided her towards the back of the house, tightly holding her hand as they walked out. It was chilly outside, and the rain was still pouring, but the patio offered a nice vantage point of the gardens. Gwyn’s face was filled with awe as he led her out, stopping not far from the doors under the edge of the roof that overhung the large patio.

Azriel pulled her into his arms, wrapping her in his embrace, his shadows finally settling down around them. He closed his eyes, letting her look out at the gardens while he held her tightly, the steady rain the only sound as she tucked her head against his chest.

“Gwyn, thank you,” Azriel murmured, leaning his head down to rest his cheek against her hair. He could stay like this forever.

“For what?”

“For being incredibly perceptive,” he smiled, his worries slowly fading the longer he held her.

“I noticed you seemed tense during dinner. I thought you might need a minute away from everyone.”

“I did. Thank you for noticing.”

“Of course,” she assured him, squeezing him a little tighter. “Are you okay though?”

He let out a sigh, allowing himself to sink into her presence, softly kissing her temple before he spoke.

“Yes, I’m fine,” he began, tightening his grip on her. “I just feel like I’m missing something, and I hate it.”

“What do you mean?”

He fell silent, mulling over his thoughts. He didn’t want to worry her, but he knew she wouldn’t rest until he told her. After a few minutes, he decided to explain.

“We’ve been investigating some issues in Vallahan for months now, but nothing has turned up even though I know something is off. And now, I found out from Lucien that he suspects something is going on in the Mortal Lands. It all feels connected somehow, but I don’t know how. I’m missing something. I know it.”

With each word, his brow furrowed a little deeper. Gwyn pulled her head back when he went silent, studying his face. She gently brushed her fingers across his forehead, smoothing the worry lines furrowing his brow, sending a rush of heat across his skin. He remained silent, watching her as she leaned up and softly kissed his cheek before tucking her face against his chest again.

“It will be okay, Az,” she promised, wrapping her arms back around him. “We’ll figure it out. Okay?”

“Okay,” he agreed, resting his cheek against her head once more, her words ringing through his head, his heart melting. We’ll figure it out. Not you’ll figure it out. She might not realize it, but that one simple word meant more than he could explain. He wasn’t alone; he didn’t have to solve everything by himself.

He tugged her a bit closer, both falling silent, holding each other tightly while the rain continued pouring down in the garden. He slowly relaxed into her, closing his eyes and simply breathing her in, the tightness in his body eventually easing. He would never get over how much her mere presence soothed him. How she calmed him with just a touch.

He lost track of time, not caring if everyone else was missing them. He only cared about the female in his arms. About the steady beating of her heart, the way her soft body molded to his. She let him hold her for as long as he needed, not letting go until he pulled back with a soft smile on his face.

“Ready to go back in?” He quietly asked.

“I am if you are,” she replied, threading their hands together. He kissed her on the forehead, then tugged her to the door, leading her to the large sitting room in the house. Everyone else was already gathered, comfortably lounging and talking. Gwyn sat next to Nesta on the sofa, so he stood behind her, leaning against the back of the sofa so he could gently play with her hair.

He paid absolutely no regard to the rest of the room, barely noticing as Gwyn watched Cassian dramatically recount some war story. He was too caught up in her to care about anyone else. He felt her shiver when his fingers found the bare skin of her neck, his hand gliding along her skin beneath the cover of her silky hair.

He knew he should probably pull his hand away, but her skin was so soft that he couldn’t bring himself to stop touching her. He let his fingers press a little harder, slowly rubbing gentle circles across her skin. He could feel knots in her neck, so he increased his efforts, massaging her while she listened to everyone talk.

He bit his lip, hiding the satisfied smile that formed when he noticed how glazed her eyes had become the longer he continued his ministrations. His mind instantly wandered, curiosity flooding him. How would she react if they were alone? Better yet, how would she react if he was massaging more than just her neck? Perhaps he’d find out soon, if she felt comfortable with it. He made a mental note to ask her sometime.

He was dragged out of his musings when Feyre approached them with Nyx in her arms, a somewhat harried look on her face. He snatched his hand away, tucking it behind his back while Gwyn hurriedly readjusted herself on the sofa.

“Azriel, would you mind holding Nyx?” Feyre asked, a pleading note in her voice. His stomach flipped, nervousness mixing with pride. He timidly held out his arms, his brow furrowing. “He keeps trying to crawl over to you. I think he wants your shadows.”

“Oh. Of course, I’ll hold him,” Azriel promised, gently taking the squirming baby. Feyre squeezed his arm, then returned to Rhys, leaving him with his nephew. His shadows instantly swooped in, creating patterns in the air around Nyx, but the baby seemed far more interested in watching Gwyn. Azriel carefully situated Nyx in his arms and started bouncing back and forth, as he had seen Cassian and Rhys do before.

Gwyn turned in her seat to watch them, and he flashed her a small smile, although it didn’t quite erase the worry on his face. He adored his nephew, but he always felt nervous holding him. He couldn’t help the fear that crept in that people might flinch away, or that he might not be gentle enough, especially with Nyx.

He watched a blush creep up Gwyn’s neck, the image bringing him out of his worries. He continued rocking Nyx back and forth, trying to remind himself of how Gwyn saw him. How she felt about his hands. The thought helped him relax, allowing him to simply enjoy holding his nephew. Nyx’s little wings fluttered as he stared at Gwyn, watching her as intently as he was.

A more genuine smile teased his lips as he swayed with Nyx, admiring Gwyn’s beautiful face. She grinned at him, quietly laughing when Nyx dove forward in his arms, squealing with delight as he stretched his arms toward her. The laugh caught Lucien’s attention, the male shifting toward the tiny baby who was eagerly trying to grab Gwyn’s hair while Azriel continued rocking him.

“I think he likes you,” Azriel murmured to Gwyn, chuckling at Nyx’s continued efforts to reach Gwyn.

“Maybe,” Gwyn agreed, that delightful blush deepening. “He likes you too.”

Azriel shrugged, feigning nonchalance despite the burst of pride he felt. Gwyn laughed again before turning her attention to the baby, starting a game of peek-a-boo. Nyx squealed in delight again, reaching for her eagerly, his eyes happily darting between her and Lucien, the latter having joined the game of peek-a-boo. The two of them took turns entertaining Nyx while Azriel swayed in place, Nyx’s tiny wings fluttering as he watched Lucien and Gwyn.

Azriel was so caught up in watching Gwyn play with his nephew that he almost missed Nesta nudging her. Gwyn turned to Nesta, leaving him and Lucien to occupy Nyx. He continued bouncing, watching as Gwyn agreed to whatever plan Nesta had concocted.

Nesta pulled Gwyn into the middle of the room, with Cassian following a moment later. Cassian handed Gwyn three apples, which Gwyn seemed to take as her cue to begin her demonstration. She began flipping the apples in the air, juggling them with ease. Cassian and Nesta cheered her on while everyone looked on in awe, even Lucien had paused the game of peek-a-book with Nyx to watch.

Azriel couldn’t rip his eyes away from Gwyn while he continued bouncing Nyx. She looked so happy and full of joy, her eyes dancing with glee as her face spread into a broad smile. He couldn’t help but smile back at her, even if she wasn’t looking at him. She was so damn gorgeous.

His nephew seemed to agree with his sentiments, mirroring his gaze and watching Gwyn with wide eyes. Azriel was so entranced by Gwyn that, for once, he didn’t care that everyone in the room had suddenly turned to look at him, their satisfied smirks barely registering.

The apples fell to the ground as Gwyn met his gaze, her face instantly going red as she took in Azriel and Nyx. He was still holding his nephew, but his focus was on Gwyn, grinning just as much as the baby. His shadows sat silently on his shoulders, equally captivated by her display. Nyx was clapping his hands, his eyes still wide as he squirmed in Azriel’s arms.

Azriel held Gwyn’s gaze as Rhys said something to the group, the words not registering. He watched her walk toward him, abandoning her spot on the sofa to stand by him. He never broke his focus on her, his eyes holding her gaze the entire time, even as Nyx squirmed harder in an attempt to reach Gwyn.

Gwyn quietly brushed back Nyx’s full head of hair as she reached them, the baby softly leaning into her touch with an awed expression. She smiled but ducked her head, no doubt avoiding Azriel’s heated gaze. He couldn’t help the desire he felt for her, the need. She was everything, and he was utterly in awe of how incredible she was. If he wasn’t holding his nephew, he would have kissed her right then and there.

They stood together, quietly playing with Nyx as the party died down. It wasn’t until Lucien came over to them, a knowing smile on his face, that either of them moved. Gwyn gave Lucien a broad grin, seeming happy to see the other male.

“I’m heading out,” Lucien informed them, ruffling Nyx’s hair. The baby giggled, diving for Lucien with what little wiggle room Azriel was allowing. They all laughed, the sound of Gwyn’s musical laughter mixing with the deep rumbles of the two males. “It was good to see you again, Gwyn. You as well, Azriel.”

“You too, “Azriel sincerely agreed, giving Lucien a small smile. The male was growing on him. “I’ll come to the Mortal Lands as soon as I can.”

“Thank you, I’ll look forward to your visit,” Lucien replied, stealing a furtive glance toward his mate who stood by the doorway. “Gwyn, I hope we see each other again soon.”

Gwyn quietly agreed, smiling broadly as he bowed and left. She watched Lucien go, her brow furrowing slightly. Azriel studied her, unsure why she suddenly looked worried. He was about to ask when Feyre and Rhys approached.

“Azriel, before you go, would you mind helping me put Nyx down?” Feyre asked, staring expectantly at him as Rhys hid a smile behind his hand.

“I…of course,” Azriel stuttered, caught off guard. He looked between Rhys and Gwyn for help, but they both ignored him, seeming amused by his obvious discomfort.

“Perfect, we’ll be back in a few minutes then,” Feyre clapped, turning toward the door, leaving Azriel no choice but to follow. He threw an apologetic glance at Gwyn, then hurried after Feyre, leaving Gwyn with Rhys and the rest of the group.

Azriel followed Feyre to the nursery, his long legs allowing him to easily keep pace with her. Nyx was already beginning to calm in his arms, his shadows having begun gently soothing him.

“Here, let me change him and then we can put him in his bed,” Feyre whispered, taking Nyx to a small changing table. Azriel hovered, unsure why Feyre wanted his help. He didn’t mind though; he adored his nephew more than anything.

“All right, how about you tuck him in?” Feyre suggested, bringing Nyx back to him. Azriel nodded, taking Nyx and walking to the crib.

Nyx went down without a fuss, falling asleep within a few minutes, his fingers slowly loosening their hold around Azriel’s much larger ones. Azriel quietly stepped back, moving toward the door where Feyre now stood. She smiled at him, then cast a fond gaze at her child before leading him into the hallway.

“Thank you, Az,” Feyre squeezed his arm, slowly walking down the hallway. “He loves you. I hope you know that.”

Azriel blushed, at a loss for words, unable to hide the smile Feyre’s words brought him. She grinned, then unexpectedly turned down a different hall, leading him away from the stairs. “Feyre, where are you going?”

Feyre glanced back at him, gesturing for him to continue following her. “I have something for you.”

He gave her a quizzical look but didn’t question her as Feyre led him into her study. He hovered by the door, watching her grab something from her desk, pulling out a small package, no bigger than the mini portrait of Feyre Rhys kept on his desk. He watched her walk back to him, his brow furrowing when she held out the package for him.

“This is for you,” Feyre stated, pushing the item into his hands. “Open it.”

He silently obeyed, pulling open the wrapping while Feyre stood by him, anxiously twisting her hands. He couldn’t fathom what she would be nervous about.

He continued unwrapping his gift, unveiling what looked like a small, simple wooden box, not quite a foot tall and maybe half a foot wide. It seemed too thin to be a box, but it had a small latch on the side. He was about to reach for it when a thought struck him.

He realized the box was identical to the odd frame Rhys had with Feyre’s portrait in it, the one he had thought of earlier. In fact, he was fairly certain Feyre had given Cassian a similar one with a portrait of Nesta in it. The frames were designed so they could be closed like a box, one half of them solid wood with the other half containing the portrait of their mates, able to be taken with them easily on long trips.

He forced himself to open the latch, his heart suddenly pounding as he understood what must be contained in the wooden frame. Sure enough, when he flicked it open, his breath caught, his eyes finding a pair of familiar teal ones staring back at him. The likeness was uncanny, the portrait perfectly capturing Gwyn’s smiling face, her eyes full of mischief and joy.

“Feyre, I…I don’t know what to say,” Azriel choked out, his eyes darting between the small portrait of Gwyn and his sister-in-law.

“You don’t have to say anything,” Feyre said, giving him a shy smile. “I just wanted you to have this. I thought you could put it on your desk maybe. Unless you don’t want to.”

His head shot up, his eyes blazing. “No, I want to. I love it, Feyre. It’s…it’s perfect. How did you even do this? You only just met Gwyn a few weeks ago.”

“Yes, and I could see how much you care for her,” Feyre shrugged, blushing slightly. “I know you haven’t been together long, but I can see the way you look at her, Az. We all do. I wanted you to know how happy I am for you, and this was a way for me to do that. I asked Nesta to help me. She showed me memories of Gwyn, and I did the rest.”

He smiled, giving the portrait one last look before tucking it into a pocket of shadows, then he swept Feyre into a tight hug. He had no words for what this gift meant, but he knew he would cherish it forever. The portrait would stay on his desk when he was home, and when he had to leave Gwyn for missions, he would take it with him.

“Thank you, Feyre,” He whispered, grinning broadly as he pulled away. She smiled back at him, then led him back toward the stairs, heading toward their respective partners.

Just as they made it to the bottom of the stairs, his shadows alerted him of Elain’s presence. He met her gaze, his happiness faltering, his shadows skittering away.

“Azriel, can I speak to you for a moment?” Elain softly asked, a small frown forming. He quickly called out to Rhys mentally, hoping his brother was paying attention.

“Of course,” Azriel agreed, pausing at the base of the stairs as Feyre continued toward the sitting room. Yes? Rhys mentally responded, filling Azriel with relief.

Elain wants to speak with me. I was hoping you might listen in. He responded to Rhys, grateful when Rhys silently agreed to keep an ear open to the conversation. After what Rhys had said earlier, Azriel didn’t feel like he could completely trust Elain for some reason. Perhaps he was over thinking, but he’d rather not take any chances.

“Azriel, I…” Elain started, casting anxious glances toward the doorway where Feyre had just disappeared. “I just wanted to say that you and Gwyn make a lovely couple. I like her. I’m happy for you.”

Azriel’s eyes went wide, taken by surprise. Maybe he was misjudging Elain. “Thank you,” he replied, guilt washing over him. “Gwyn is wonderful.”

Elain nodded but didn’t say anything else. He took that as a sign she had no more to say, so he moved towards the sitting room, pausing when the guilt in his heart increased.

“Elain,” he called, turning toward her again. “I’m sorry. For everything. I hope you find happiness.”

She gave him a sad smile, “Thank you, Azriel. I’m sorry too.”

He nodded, looking at her for a moment before he turned away again. There was nothing left to say, and Gwyn was waiting for him. He quickly grabbed Gwyn’s coat on his way to the sitting room, then walked in to find his favorite priestess, leaving Elain hovering in the hallway.

He met Rhys’ gaze as he entered, his brother giving him an almost imperceptible nod of approval. He gave Rhys a knowing look, relief flooding him. All he had to do now was tell Gwyn and everything would be completely left in the past.

He looked at Gwyn, meeting her happy face with a grin of his own, the thought of Feyre’s gift filling him with joy and pride again.

“Ready?” Azriel asked, holding his arms out as Gwyn walked over. He helped her put on her jacket, then threaded their hands together, tugging her in close. She willingly leaned into him as his shadows twirled in her hair.

They said their goodbyes, then turned to leave, but Elain suddenly stopped them in the hallway.

“Gwyn!” Elain called, her face full of sadness and what looked like fear. “It was nice to meet you. I’m glad you came.”

“Thank you,” Gwyn replied while Azriel watched. “It was nice meeting you as well.”

With that, Azriel ushered her through the door, drawing a wing above her as they stepped out into the pouring rain. He moved to take her in his arms to winnow, but she held up a hand, giving him a strange look he couldn’t quite decipher.

“Azriel, why was Elain looking at me like that?” Gwyn bluntly inquired. Azriel’s heart immediately dropped, his face falling. “She looked almost scared. Is there something I should know?”

Azriel sighed, closing his eyes for a moment to gather his thoughts before answering. He knew he needed to have this conversation with Gwyn, but he wasn’t expecting it to happen now. He was filled with terror as he finally spoke.

“I think Elain was just worried that you might not like her.”

“Why?”

He heaved a sigh again, his brow furrowing. It was best to just say it, to get it over with. There was nothing else he could do now to soften the blow.

“Because Elain and I…we sort of…we had a crush on each other at one point. But that was it. There’s nothing between us now. There never really was.”

With each word, the pit in his stomach deepened. He hated that anything had ever happened with Elain, even if it was nothing. He wished he could take it back, but he knew he couldn’t. He just prayed he wouldn’t lose Gwyn; he wouldn’t be able to bear the loss of his lovely bird.

As he waited for her response, he grew more and more worried, dread filling his heart as he watched her process his words. He couldn’t take it; he knew what she was thinking. He grabbed her chin, forcing her to look at him.

“Gwyn, stop,” Azriel pushed, fury and determination lacing every syllable. His heart was slowly shattering at the sadness in her eyes. “I can see where your head is going, and I won’t allow it. I only told you that so you understood what happened, not so you could start worrying about my involvement with her. There is nothing between us. I am with you, and I only want you. Please don’t doubt that. Please don’t doubt how much I want you. How much I need you. Bird, please.”

His voice cracked on the last word, fear and self-loathing overwhelming him. He had hurt Gwyn. He had hurt the only person who mattered. The only person who knew him, all of him. He needed her, more than anything, and now he might lose her. But before he could dwell on his fears too much, he suddenly had a female in his arms, hugging him fiercely.

Gwyn held onto him, her arms thrown around his neck, the sadness in her face gone. Relief replaced all his worries, allowing him to relax into her. He leaned his head down to rest against hers, his wings still shielding them from the rain.

“I’m sorry for not telling you sooner,” he whispered, his voice rough. “I’m sorry, Bird. I was just scared of losing you.”

“It’s okay, I understand,” she promised him, pulling back to look at his face. He was still worried, a tight frown on his lips, but at least she was touching him. “Azriel, I believe you. I trust you.”

He slowly started to nod, but she cut off anything he might have said when she gripped the hair at the nape of his neck and pulled him down, crashing her lips into his. He responded immediately, gripping her tighter and pulling her off her feet, his mouth moving in perfect harmony with hers. He didn’t care if anyone was watching, he only cared that Gwyn was kissing him. He unconsciously dropped his wings, barely noticing the rain soaking them as he continued kissing Gwyn. He hadn’t lost her, that was the only thing that mattered.

She kissed him with a passion that took his breath away, both of them trying to convey what they felt for each other into the kiss. He enthusiastically returned her passion, exploring her until he could feel nothing but heat and need and desire for her. She was all he wanted, all he needed.

When they finally pulled apart, Azriel leaned his forehead against hers, his chest heaving. The rain was drenching them, but neither of them seemed to care as they stared into each other’s eyes, his heart flooded with emotions he wasn’t ready to think about yet.

“Gwyn, thank you for believing me,” Azriel whispered, his voice raw with emotion.

“Thank you for telling me,” she quietly replied, kissing his cheek softly.

He smiled, his hands still gripping her waist. He wasn’t ready to let her go. “Stay with me tonight. Please.”

“Of course,” she promised, pressing herself tighter against him. He let out a relieved sigh, then lifted her again so he could winnow.

Within a moment, he had swept Gwyn into his shadows, holding her tightly as they winnowed home, a calming peace settling over both of them. His confession was already a distant memory, her trust in him filling him with pride and joy and other emotions he would address another day. For now, he was content she was still with him, still his.

**********************************************

Tags: @chloepereyra|@lovelyladymayyy|@erisvanserrarailmepls|@valkygwyn|@remellarome|@inejjg|@azrielsgirl|@gisellefigue08|@acourtofmidnightsnacks|@67impalagirl13|@illyrian-valkyrie|@arinbelle|@amandapearls|@bittermuire|@cauldron-blessedarcheron1|@starbornsinger|@princessofmerchants|@allygug|@zooni92802|@molinden|@tallyovie|@siyeoncruella|@thelittlebookishcorner|@zerxfaithinhumanity|@words-are-what-i-hide-behind|@vasudharaghavan|@gwynkyrie|@niytavia|@fairytamy|@madie2200|@icarusave|@spookylightkidranch|@mirubyai|@gwynsazriel|@live-the-fangirl-life|@bookprofessor|@ddsworldofbooks|@positivewitch|@cursebreaker29|@zullyluly|@violentdelightshaveviolentends12|@faithisilliterate|@b00kishwh0re|@spookyfreakturtlefire|@inejbrekkxr|@whereisvaughan|@aelingalathyniusrailme |@secretlovelybeauty|@gwynrielsupremacist|@bookologist|@unpopularcharacterstan|@moodymelanist|@discorrdiia|@generalnesta|@flora-shadowshine|@amaranthas-whore | @sia-r | @gpxxx | @annikaschwietz | @rewiue

Title: Family Dinner

Azriel takes Gwyn to family dinner for the first time.

Read on AO3

Azriel x Gwyn

Warnings: Fluff

Word Count: 5,353

Masterlist

“Gwyn, honey, relax,” Azriel patiently chided as he guided her toward the front door of the River Estate, both of their heads lowered to shield from the unexpected rain. Autumn had set in early, the past week turning from warm to chilly in the blink of an eye. Gwyn, along with Azriel, Nesta and Cassian, was bundled in a rain jacket to keep herself dry in the relentless downpour.

“Iam relaxed,” she insisted, ignoring the proof to the contrary. She was clinging to Azriel so tightly she was worried his hand might lose circulation. His lips spread into a thin line, but he didn’t push her further as they entered the house behind Nesta and Cassian.

She blinked in the bright entryway, her senses overwhelmed by the onslaught of voices, light and color that greeted her. Mor and Emerie immediately pounced on them, drawing her in for hugs while Azriel held her hand. Then it was Feyre who greeted them, introducing her to the tiny, squealing baby in her arms who was happily flapping his little wings.

Before Rhys could make it to her, Azriel intervened and steered her toward the coat closet, quietly taking her jacket and giving her a kiss to the forehead before taking her hand again. He studied her face closely but remained silent, seeming worried. She gave him a small smile, then followed him back to the rest of the group.

She saw a familiar head of red hair next to Rhys, but she was intercepted by Feyre again, followed by a curvy brunette who looked vaguely similar to the high lady. The new female was stunning, all soft curves and delicate features. Gwyn swallowed, looking up at Azriel for reassurance, but his face was unreadable, his eyes scanning the room rather than the two females in front of him.

“Gwyn, I wanted you to meet my other sister, Elain,” Feyre introduced her, gesturing to the pretty female next to her. Of course, this was the third Archeron sister.

“It’s nice to meet you,” Elain said quietly, giving her a tight smile that didn’t quite reach her eyes.

“You as well,” Gwyn smiled back, slowly appraising the other female. She was beautiful, it couldn’t be denied, yet there seemed to be something almost sullen to her appearance. Gwyn shook off the feeling. She was just nervous; she was probably imaging things.

Azriel softy coughed next to her, bringing their attention to him. “Gwyn, Lucien is here. I’m sure he’d like to say hello. Shall we?”

She eagerly nodded, letting him lead her across the hall to Lucien and Rhys who were engaged in lively discussion. They both turned to her as Azriel guided her over, their faces breaking into matching grins.

“Gwyn, it’s wonderful to see you again,” Lucien greeted her, bending his head in a bow.

“Agreed,” Rhys echoed, smiling fondly at her. “I was beginning to worry you were scared off by our superior poker skills.”

She laughed, her body finally beginning to relax next to Azriel who remained quiet as he watched her. “I remember beating all of you at cards. Repeatedly. So, if losing equals superior, then yes, I am quite scared of your skills.”

The three males all laughed, further easing her nerves. They fell into easy conversation, Azriel adding in the occasional comment but otherwise watching her the entire time. She eventually realized he must still be worried from how nervous she had been before they left. Azriel had spent almost thirty minutes in his room with her convincing her that it was no different than going to Mor’s party.

He had invited her to family dinner a few days ago and Gwyn had agreed with little hesitation. After all, in the time since he had returned from his mission, they had spent every minute possible with each other. It seemed natural that he would want her to accompany him to dinner, even Emerie had begun attending with Mor recently. But by the time the night had arrived, Gwyn had become a nervous wreck, convincing herself that she would make some embarrassing mistake in the high lord and lady’s home.

Azriel, of course, had been beyond patient with her, holding her in his arms until she had calmed down enough and promising her they could leave whenever she wanted. She hadn’t noticed how anxious he had become until now, his face filled with worry as he continued watching her carefully.

As Rhys led them into the dining room, Gwyn turned her attention to Azriel, meeting his worried gaze with a soft smile.

“Az, I’m okay,” she whispered, squeezing his hand gently. He squeezed back, his eyes searching her face. “You don’t need to worry so much.”

“I’m not,” he argued, pulling out a chair for her as everyone filed in. When she rolled her eyes, he added. “Maybe a little. But only because I want you to enjoy yourself.”

“I will,” she insisted, letting him scoot her chair in for her. He squeezed her leg under the table as he settled in next to her, running his fingers along the spot where her leggings met her sweater, sending a warm shiver down her spine. He leaned in to softly kiss her temple, his face finally relaxing.

As she turned her attention back to the group, attempting to ignore Azriel’s continued stroking of her leg, she found herself seated next to Rhys, with Feyre on the end of the table next to him. Elain was on the corner next to Feyre, with Nesta and Cassian directly across from Gwyn, and Lucien on Cassian’s other side. Mor sat on the opposite end from Feyre, with Emerie on Azriel’s other side.

She quietly watched everyone settle in as food began being passed around. Despite her promise to Azriel, she was still nervous. She might have gone to Mor’s party, but this was different. This was more intimate in some ways, and it made her stomach flutter.

“Gwyn, thank you for coming tonight,” Rhys quietly told her as they began eating. She met his gaze, giving him a shy smile. “Feyre and I were both thrilled when Azriel told us he had invited you.”

“Thank you for having me,” she replied, a blush creeping up her neck. Azriel was still soothingly rubbing her leg under the table, but she hadn’t fully relaxed yet.

“I’ve been wondering, how did you learn to play poker?” Rhys asked, taking her by surprise. She let out a giggle, smiling in earnest at him. “I don’t think I’ve lost that badly to anyone, except Azriel.”

“Well, he taught me,” she confessed, her face shining with pride. She felt Azriel shift next to her, pausing his own conversation and turning to her and Rhys.

“Rhys, she’s being modest,” Azriel remarked, brushing her hair back softly. “I only taught her the basics. She figured out the rest on her own. She can even give me a run for my money now.”

Rhys chuckled, flashing his dazzling smile. “Is that so?”

Gwyn nodded, ducking her head to hide her smile. Azriel squeezed her thigh before he continued speaking, his words causing her heart to flutter with joy.

“Yes, and she’s good at chess too,” Azriel told Rhys, giving Gwyn a crooked grin as her blush deepened. “We started playing together a few months ago, and she’s only improved since.”

“Well, I’ll have to test that sometime,” Rhys replied, looking at Gwyn again. “Anytime you’d like, you’re welcome to come over and we can play a match or two.”

Gwyn timidly nodded, “I’d like that.”

“I also heard from Nesta that you’re interested in astronomy,” Rhys noted, holding her gaze as Azriel turned back to his conversation. “Is that true?”

She nodded again, her anxiety finally easing completely as Rhys continued talking. They fell into comfortable conversation about their shared love of astronomy, Rhys informing her he had a solar model in his office that he offered to show her sometime. Feyre and Nesta chimed in occasionally, but Elain remained oddly quiet.

Gwyn wasn’t sure if the third Archeron was normally this quiet, so she chose not to push her, but she couldn’t help but notice how often Elain looked in her direction. Like clockwork, every few minutes Elain would lift her head and peer at her, her face set in a look that almost seemed scared, or perhaps nervous. For the life of her, Gwyn couldn’t understand why the other female would look at her like that; she decided she should ask Nesta later rather than dwell on it now.

To her right, Azriel continued chatting with Lucien, Mor and Emerie, with Cassian going back and forth between the two conversations. As dinner slowly winded down, Gwyn noticed that Azriel had become strangely tense, as if something was bothering him. She turned to Azriel when Rhys became preoccupied with Nyx for a moment. Azriel’s face was unreadable to most, but Gwyn noted the set of his jaw and the firm line of his mouth. Something was definitely bothering him; she just wasn’t sure what.

She quietly leaned into Azriel, offering him silent support for whatever was on his mind. He gave her a tight smile as he took her hand under the table, setting their joined hands on his leg. His shadows flitted between them, gently tugging the hem of her sweater in Azriel’s direction, more agitated then normal. She took their odd behavior as confirmation that their master was not entirely happy, their movements seeming to draw her to him. She anxiously waited for dinner to end, listening to the various conversations as the meal came to a natural close.

When the group finally rose to go into the living area, Gwyn tightly held onto Azriel’s hand under the table, silently urging him to stay a moment longer. He understood her meaning and urged Mor and Emerie, who were waiting, to go ahead of them.

“Is everything all right?” He whispered, holding her gaze as the rest of the group filed out. His shadows seemed to calm slightly, softly twirling around her hair.

“I’m fine, I was worried about you,” she responded, leaning into his touch when he grazed her cheek with his knuckles. “You seem tense. Do you want to talk about it?”

He shook his head slowly, eyes shuttered. “Not yet. I shouldn’t be thinking about work.”

“Azriel, it’s okay,” she soothed him, running her hand along his arm as an idea struck her. “How about you show me the gardens before we go in with everyone else?”

He raised his eyebrows at her. “It’s raining.”

“So? We can stay near the house.”

He chuckled, then pushed back his chair. “Okay, I’ll show you the gardens.”

He pulled her chair back, then took her hand again as he guided her towards the back of the house, tightly holding her hand as they walked out. It was chilly outside, and the rain was still pouring, but from what she could see the gardens looked spectacular. She stared in awe as Azriel led her out, stopping not far from the doors under the edge of the roof that overhung the large patio.

Azriel pulled her into his arms, wrapping her in his protective embrace, his shadows finally settling down around them. She tucked her head against his chest, letting him hold her tightly while she looked out across the rain drenched gardens, the steady falling of rain the only sound.

“Gwyn, thank you,” Azriel murmured, leaning his head down to rest his cheek against her hair.

“For what?”

“For being incredibly perceptive.”

She blushed against his chest. “I noticed you seemed tense during dinner. I thought you might need a minute away from everyone.”

“I did. Thank you for noticing.”

“Of course,” she assured him, squeezing him a little tighter. “Are you okay though?”

She felt him sigh against her, his lips softly grazing her temple before he spoke.

“Yes, I’m fine,” he began, his arms tightening their grip on her. “I just feel like I’m missing something, and I hate it.”

“What do you mean?”

He was silent for a long moment, but she didn’t push him. She could tell that whatever was bothering him was something he needed to think about. After a few minutes, he finally went on.

“We’ve been investigating some issues in Vallahan for months now, but nothing has turned up even though I know something is off. And now, I found out from Lucien that he suspects something is going on in the Mortal Lands. It all feels connected somehow, but I don’t know how. I’m missing something. I know it.”

She tilted her head back to find his face unsurprisingly creased with worry. She reached up and gently brushed her fingers across his forehead, smoothing the worry lines furrowing his brow. He remained silent, watching her as she leaned up and softly kissed his cheek before tucking her face against his chest again.

“It will be okay, Az,” she promised, wrapping her arms back around him. “We’ll figure it out. Okay?”

“Okay,” he agreed, resting his cheek against her head once more. They both went silent, holding each other tightly while the rain continued pouring down in the garden. She could feel him slowly relax against her, the tight set of his shoulders easing the longer she held him. Knowing that she was helping ease his anxiety made her feel unexpectedly happy. This male was hers. Completely hers.

She wasn’t sure how long they stood on the patio, holding each other while watching the rain pour down around them. She didn’t let go of him until he finally relaxed his hold on her, slowly pulling back with a soft smile on his face.

“Ready to go back in?” He quietly asked, his face filled with a contented softness.

“I am if you are,” she replied, threading their hands together. He kissed her on the forehead, then tugged her to the door, leading her to the large sitting room in the house. Everyone else was already gathered, comfortably lounging and talking. She sat next to Nesta who gave her arm a soft squeeze as she settled onto the plush sofa. Azriel stood behind her, leaning against the back of the sofa and gently playing with her hair.

Gwyn quietly watched Cassian demonstrating some dramatic story in the middle of the room, the light touch of Azriel’s fingers against her neck distracting her too much to fully concentrate on what was happening.

She was vaguely aware of Lucien sitting in the armchair next to her, and of Nesta laughing at her mate’s story, but she was wholly uninterested in anything else. Especially when Azriel began gently massaging her neck underneath the cover of her hair. It was an effort not to close her eyes and lean into his touch, as it was, her eyes were slightly dazed.

She was saved from further distraction when Feyre approached them with Nyx in her arms, a somewhat harried look on her face. Azriel snatched his hand away, tucking it behind his back while Gwyn hurriedly readjusted herself on the sofa.

“Azriel, would you mind holding Nyx?” Feyre asked, a pleading note in her voice. Azriel shyly held out his arms, his brow instantly furrowing with worry. “He keeps trying to crawl over to you. I think he wants your shadows.”

“Oh. Of course, I’ll hold him,” Azriel promised, gently taking the squirming baby from Feyre’s arms. The high lady gave him a grateful squeeze on the arm before going back to her spot on the other sofa with Rhys. Azriel carefully situated Nyx in his arms, his face still filled with worry as he began bouncing the baby back and forth as his shadows swirled around them.

Gwyn turned in her seat to watch them, her heart doing odd little flips at the sight of Azriel with a baby in his arms. He was a natural, even if he clearly didn’t think so himself. The way he held Nyx in his arms was full of so much tenderness and love; Gwyn could only imagine how he would hold a baby of his own. The thought drifted through Gwyn’s mind of its own accord, drawing a blush to her cheeks as she imagined Azriel holding other babies - babies with blue black hair, crooked grins and dimples.

Gwyn was suddenly grateful Azriel couldn’t read minds as he looked down at her, a small smile teasing his lips as he swayed back and forth. She grinned at him, quietly laughing when Nyx dove forward in his arms, squealing with delight as he stretched his arms toward her. The laugh caught Lucien’s attention, the male shifting toward the tiny baby who was eagerly trying to grab Gwyn’s hair while Azriel continued rocking him back and forth.

“I think he likes you,” Azriel murmured, chuckling at Nyx’s efforts to escape Azriel’s strong hold.

“Maybe,” Gwyn agreed, suddenly very warm as Azriel watched her. “He likes you too.”

Azriel shrugged, feigning nonchalance even as a smile tugged at his lips. She laughed again before turning her attention back to the baby, starting a game of peek-a-boo. Nyx squealed in delight, reaching for her eagerly, his eyes happily darting between her and Lucien, the latter having joined the game of peek-a-boo. The two of them took turns entertaining Nyx while Azriel swayed in place, Nyx’s tiny wings fluttering happily as he watched Lucien and Gwyn.

Gwyn was too focused on Nyx to notice Nesta saying her name. It wasn’t until Nesta nudged her shoulder that she finally turned, unexpectedly finding half the room looking at her. She turned her gaze on Nesta, her eyes filled with suspicion as she raised an eyebrow in question.

“We were just discussing hidden talents, and I mentioned that you have many,” Nesta explained blandly, a mischievous glint in her eyes. For a moment, Gwyn’s stomach dipped. She silently prayed Nesta wasn’t about to ask her to sing. “I told everyone you can juggle. Would you demonstrate?”

A relieved sigh escaped her lips, her shoulders sagging. “Sure,” she agreed. She would happily juggle if that meant she didn’t have to sing in front of everyone.

Nesta happily clapped then hopped off the sofa, pulling Gwyn with her. Emerie gave her a reassuring smile while everyone else turned their attention to her. Nesta led her to the center of the room, then Cassian appeared with three apples that he seemed to have gotten out of nowhere. She willingly took the apples, then took a deep breath before she began.

She flipped the apples round and round, creating a circle of flying fruit above her head. Everyone around her watched with delighted expressions, Cassian cheering her on while Nesta clapped. She grinned as she continued juggling, too focused on her task to notice the soft giggle emanating from her left. It wasn’t until she realized that half the room had turned in Azriel’s direction, smirks on their faces, that she finally looked over, the apples falling forgotten as she saw Azriel and Nyx.

Azriel was still holding Nyx, but they were no longer playing with Lucien. Instead, they were both watching her, a wide grin on Azriel’s face, his shadows seeming frozen in place around him, facing in her direction. Nyx was clapping his hands excitedly, smiling with wide eyes at her as he squirmed in Azriel’s arms. She instantly went crimson, warmth flooding her entire body as she met Azriel’s gaze.

She was saved from saying anything by Rhys, who took that moment to say something that brought everyone’s focus to him. She ducked away to the sofa, choosing to stand next to Azriel rather than sit again. His eyes never left her, not even as Nyx squirmed even harder, his tiny arms reaching for her.

She quietly brushed back Nyx’s full head of hair, the baby softly leaning into her touch with an awed expression. She smiled, avoiding Azriel’s unflinching gaze for a moment; his eyes were filled with so much longing and desire, it made her feel nervous and warm and dizzy all at once.

They stood together, quietly playing with Nyx as the party died down. It wasn’t until Lucien came over to them, a knowing smile on his face, that she finally realized how late it was getting. She grinned at Lucien, happy he and Azriel had seemed to get along all evening. She wasn’t sure why, but there was something about Lucien she liked, and she was grateful she could spend more time with him, even if she had been preoccupied for most of it.

“I’m heading out,” Lucien informed them, ruffling Nyx’s hair. The baby giggled, diving for Lucien with what little wiggle room Azriel was allowing. They all laughed, the sound of her musical laughter mixing with the deep rumbles of the two males. “It was good to see you again, Gwyn. You as well, Azriel.”

“You too, “Azriel affirmed, giving Lucien a small smile. “I’ll come to the Mortal Lands as soon as I can.”

“Thank you, I’ll look forward to your visit,” Lucien replied, stealing an odd glance toward the doorway where Elain stood. “Gwyn, I hope we see each other again soon.”

She quietly agreed, smiling broadly as he bowed and left. She watched him go, her brows furrowing as she noticed the strange glance Elain shot after him when he disappeared around the corner; her face was filled with something that almost seemed like a mixture of longing and fear. Gwyn shook away the thought, turning back to Azriel just as Feyre and Rhys walked over.

“Azriel, before you go, would you mind helping me put down Nyx?” Feyre asked, staring expectantly at Azriel as Rhys hid a smile behind his hand.

“I…of course,” Azriel choked out, looking between Rhys and Gwyn for help. Both of them ignored him, sharing amusement at his obvious discomfort. He was so good with Nyx, yet he seemed to think he was going to drop him at any moment. It was adorable.

“Perfect, we’ll be back in a few minutes then,” Feyre clapped, turning toward the door, leaving Azriel no choice but to follow. He threw an apologetic glance at Gwyn, then hurried after Feyre, leaving Gwyn with Rhys and the rest of the group.

Before Rhys or Gwyn could say anything, Nesta and Emerie approached, both of them already in their rain jackets.

“Gwyn, we were going to leave with Mor,” Nesta informed her, glancing back to where Cassian and Mor stood by the door, Elain having disappeared somewhere else. “Are you okay waiting for Azriel, or do you want us to stay with you?”

Gwyn looked at Rhys who gave a small smile, then she turned back to Nesta and Emerie. “I’ll be fine,” She assured them, taking a calming breath. “I’ll wait for Az.”

“Are you sure?” Emerie pressed, brows scrunching together. Gwyn nodded, not wanting her friends to have to wait. Emerie and Nesta conceded, then pulled her in for a hug before going to their respective partners and leaving.

Gwyn turned back to Rhys, not quite sure what she should do now. Rhys smiled and gestured at the sofa, encouraging her to take a seat. She willingly obeyed, settling herself into the plush cushions as he sat next to her.

“Gwyn, thank you again for coming,” Rhys said, holding her gaze with his violet eyes. “I hope you enjoyed everything.”

“It was lovely,” she affirmed, blushing slightly at the odd look in his eyes. It was like he could see right through her. “Thank you for having me.”

He chuckled. “No, thank you. Sincerely, we loved having you. Your juggling was quite the hit with Nyx…and my brother.”

Her slight blush turned into a full-fledged flush as her eyes went wide, her jaw gaping. “I…I hadn’t realized. Umm, I…”

“Gwyn, it’s all right,” Rhys cut her off, saving her from trying to find the right words. “It was nice seeing him so happy. It’s rare. You bring out the best in him, the side that he only lets far too few people see.”

She couldn’t speak, she could only stare in awe as Rhys spoke. Her heart was racing, her head almost spinning. She rarely talked about her relationship with Azriel with anyone except Nesta and Emerie, and they never spoke about how Azriel was impacted, not like this. While she was still struggling to find words, Rhys continued speaking.

“I know you haven’t been together long, but…you’re good together,” Rhys remarked, toying with invisible lint on the sofa. “I’ve never seen him like this. Not with anyone. He’s happier than I have ever seen him. And I have you to thank for that.”

“I…I haven’t done anything,” Gwyn argued, avoiding his gaze, tears pricking her eyes. She wasn’t sure why, but what Rhys was saying had made her oddly emotional, his words tugging at a part of her she wasn’t ready to acknowledge yet.

“But you have, Gwyn,” Rhys gently told her, his voice full of emotion. “You might not see it, but everyone else can. There’s not a soul who could see you two and not see how happy you are together.”

“I…I don’t know what to say,” she whispered, her throat tight.

“You don’t have to say anything,” Rhys promised. “I just wanted you to know how grateful I am. And how thrilled I am seeing you together.”

Gwyn smiled, finally meeting his gaze again. “Thank you.”

Rhys grinned; eyes unexpectedly soft. Gwyn wasn’t sure what to make of it. She hadn’t expected to have this conversation with anyone, let alone the high lord of the Night Court. But he was Azriel’s brother, so she supposed it made sense.

As she was thinking, Rhys suddenly turned toward the door, seeming to hear something that she didn’t. A minute later, Feyre reentered the room, smiling broadly as she saw her mate and Gwyn on the sofa together. Gwyn waited for Azriel to return, but he didn’t immediately follow.

Rhys and Gwyn stood, meeting Feyre halfway to the door to the hall, a pleased look slowly crossing Rhys’ face as he stared toward the door before disappearing into an unreadable expression. Gwyn had the strange sensation that she was missing something, she just wasn’t sure what.

“Gwyn, I’m so glad you came tonight,” Feyre gushed, pulling her in for a tight hug. “It was wonderful to see you. I told Azriel that we expect to see you again, if you want to.”

“I’d like that,” Gwyn agreed, squeezing Feyre before pulling back. A moment later Azriel appeared in the doorway, Elain hovering in the hall. Gwyn smiled, but not before catching Azriel and Rhys sharing an odd look, both of their faces filled with something Gwyn wasn’t quite sure of. Understanding, or maybe closure. She shook her head; she must have imagined it.

“Ready?” Azriel asked, holding his arms out, her coat slung over his arm, his eyes undeniably happy as she walked over to him. He helped her put on her jacket, then threaded their hands together, tugging her in close to him. She willingly leaned into him, sinking into his presence as his shadows twirled in her hair.

They said their goodbyes, then turned to leave, but Elain suddenly stopped them.

“Gwyn!” Elain called, her face filled with that same look from earlier, the one that Gwyn could have sworn looked like fear or longing. “It was nice to meet you. I’m glad you came.”

“Thank you,” Gwyn replied, puzzled by Elain’s strange look. “It was nice meeting you as well.”

With that, Azriel ushered her through the door, drawing a wing above her as they stepped out into the pouring rain. Azriel moved to take her into his arms to winnow, but she held up a hand, deciding then that she couldn’t wait to talk to Nesta.

“Azriel, why was Elain looking at me like that?” Gwyn bluntly inquired, her anxiety skyrocketing when Azriel’s face turned worried. “She looked almost scared. Is there something I should know?”

Azriel sighed, closing his eyes for a moment before answering. “I think Elain was just worried that you might not like her.”

“Why?”

He heaved a sigh again, his brow furrowed. “Because Elain and I…we sort of…we had a crush on each other at one point. But that was it. There’s nothing between us now. There never really was.”

Gwyn could tell he was being sincere, but the words still cut her more than she cared to admit. Of course, Azriel would have had feelings for Elain at one point. How could he not? Before she could fully let her worry sink in, Azriel grabbed her chin, forcing her to look at him.

“Gwyn, stop,” Azriel pushed, fury and determination lacing every syllable. “I can see where your head is going, and I won’t allow it. I only told you that so you understood what happened, not so you could start worrying about my involvement with her. There is nothing between us. I am with you, and I only want you. Please don’t doubt that. Please don’t doubt how much I want you. How much I need you. Bird, please.”

His voice cracked on the last word, and that was how Gwyn knew he was being completely honest, that she had nothing to worry about. There was no reason to dwell on the past, she decided. There was a part of her that was terrified of losing another person she cared about, but she refused to think about that. Azriel deserved her trust, he had given her no reason to doubt him.

She threw her arms around him, tightly hugging him until she could feel him relax against her. He leaned his head down to rest against hers, his wings still shielding them from the rain.

“I’m sorry for not telling you sooner,” he whispered, his voice rough. “I’m sorry, bird. I was just scared of losing you.”

“It’s okay, I understand,” she promised him, pulling back to look at his face. His eyes were still worried, a tight frown on his face. “Azriel, I believe you. I trust you.”

He slowly started to nod, but she cut off anything he might have said when she gripped the hair at the nape of his neck and pulled him down, crashing her lips into his. He responded immediately, gripping her tighter and pulling her off her feet, his mouth moving in perfect harmony with hers. She didn’t care if anyone was watching, or that they were both getting soaking wet now because Azriel had dropped his wings. She only cared that she was with Azriel, that he was hers.

She tried to convey everything she felt into the kiss, letting him take as much as he needed. He enthusiastically returned her passion, exploring her until she was dizzy with desire and heat and need. This was all she needed, all she wanted.

When they finally pulled apart, Azriel leaned his forehead against hers, his chest heaving. The rain was drenching them, but neither of them seemed to care as they stared into each other’s eyes, an emotion that she wasn’t ready to name yet flooding her heart.

“Gwyn, thank you for believing me,” Azriel whispered, his voice raw with emotion.

“Thank you for telling me,” she quietly replied, kissing his cheek softly.

He smiled, his hands still gripping her waist. “Stay with me tonight. Please.”

“Of course,” she promised, pressing herself tighter against him. He let out a relieved sigh, then lifted her again so he could winnow.

Within a moment, Gwyn was swept up into his familiar shadowy presence, his strong body holding her as they winnowed through the darkness, a calming peace settling over both of them. His confession was already a distant memory, her trust in him overriding any fears she may have had. She could feel his steady heartbeat against her, the softness he only showed her a reassuring promise that he was hers and only hers.

Title: Moonlight Magic

When Azriel takes Gwyn to his favorite hidden lake, the two of them revel in each other’s presence under the moonlight.

Read on AO3

Azriel x Gwyn

Warnings: Fluffy steam

Single POV

Word Count: 5,487

Masterlist

Azriel carefully watched Gwyn look around her in awe, taking in the remote lake tucked in the mountains outside of Velaris. She kept spinning in circles, stunned by the beautiful surroundings, but he couldn’t take his eyes off her.

He had winnowed them here too quickly to explain where he was taking her, only stopping at the house long enough to throw on a shirt before whisking her away. All he wanted was to be alone with her, to lose himself in her presence, away from prying eyes and nosy family members. He loved Nesta and Cassian, but he hadn’t seen Gwyn in 11 days. He wasn’t sure he could handle one more interruption, especially not when Gwyn was being delightfully forward tonight.

As she spun around again, slowly making her way down to the small dock at the water’s edge, he couldn’t help but think about what they had just been doing in his bedroom. He could still feel Gwyn’s hands on him, drifting lower and lower and lower until he thought he might combust. He had desperately wanted her fingers to slip farther down, to continue tracing the scar on his hip. To see what she might have done after she found the end of that scar.

He shook his head, trying to ignore the wave of heat that ran through him, his body aching with need. He had missed her so damn much. He took a deep breath, following her down to the dock, commanding his shadows to keep a little distance tonight. He wanted her all to himself.

She turned to him with a grin as he stepped behind her, softly placing a hand on her back. He leaned down to kiss her cheek, twining their hands together and leading her to the edge of the dock. He settled himself at the edge, pulling her down next to him with a gentle tug. She sat down with a smile, threading one arm around his and toying with her priestess robes with the other.

“So, where exactly are we?” She finally asked, turning her gaze away from the glittering expanse of the lake in front of her and meeting his eyes. She was so close to him, and the moon bright enough, that he could count the freckles on her face if he wanted to. And gods did he want to. He wanted to explore everything with her, to learn what made this beautiful female tick.

“It’s a lake,” he teased, his lips quirking up at the corners. He shifted slightly, bringing his legs close enough that their thighs brushed. “In the mountains. It’s a mountain lake.”

She rolled her eyes theatrically, playfully shoving her shoulder against his. He laughed, the sound echoing across the mountains. He kissed her on the cheek again before giving in, letting himself sink into the feeling of just being with her.

“It really is just a mountain lake,” he explained, brazenly placing his hand on top of her thigh. She didn’t resist his touch, instead using her free hand to idly trace his scars. Gods he loved when she did that. “It’s in the mountains, a few miles outside of the city. I found it while flying, kind of like the meadow I took you to.”

“It’s incredible,” she murmured, looking back out across the water. “Why did you bring me here?”

He chuckled, affectionately squeezing her thigh. “Because I wanted to share it with you,” he shrugged. “Like the meadow, it’s one of my favorite places. I like to come swim here when I need to think. And conveniently, it is extremely hard to get to if you can’t fly or winnow. So, we won’t need to worry about anymore rude interruptions.”

That earned him a giggle, her face turning a noticeable shade of pink even in the moonlight. He reached out his free hand, tracing his fingers along the warmth building in her cheeks. She looked up at him through her lashes, her eyes full of the same desire that was making his head fuzzy.

“We certainly don’t want more interruptions, I suppose,” she quipped, her eyes heavy lidded, her scent turning sweet. His grip on her thigh tightened involuntarily, his restraint slipping. He wanted to lay her back on this dock and let her continue what she had started earlier.

“No, we wouldn’t want that,” he replied, his voice coming out far rougher than he had intended. She shyly smiled at him, lightly squeezing his bicep. He swallowed, forcing himself to tear his gaze away, feebly attempting to collect his scattered thoughts.

“I didn’t know you liked swimming,” she remarked, resuming her soft tracing of his scars. He snuck a glance at her, his breath catching as he took in her moonlit frame. She was so damn beautiful.

He took a calming breath, forcing his eyes back on the water. “Yes, it’s peaceful in the water. Do you swim?”

She shook her head, an amused smile teasing her lips as he turned back to her. He stared for a moment; too lost in her beauty to realize why she was amused. Then it hit him.

“Ohh, I’m sorry, I should have realized,” he apologized, his cheeks warming. Of course, she wouldn’t swim, even if she was part nymph. She had probably never been close enough to anywhere she could swim.

“Sangravah was too remote, so I never learned,” she noted, a wistful sadness filling her teal eyes. He wanted to take it away, to get her smiling again.

“I could teach you,” he offered instinctively, the words leaving his mouth before he could think them through. She blinked, her eyebrows raising.

“Now?”

“Yes. I mean, no. Sort of,” he rambled, not sure what he was trying to say. All he knew was he wanted her to be happy, to experience something he was sure she would love as much as he did. She studied him, waiting for him to collect his thoughts, her lips fighting a smile. He ran a hand through his hair out of habit, biting his lip while he mulled over his suggestion.

“We probably don’t have enough time for me to teach you now,” he finally told her, averting his gaze, his face growing warmer. “This is probably the last time it will be warm enough to go into the water until the spring. But I could teach you then, when it warms back up, if you want me to.”

She nodded, a small smile spreading across her face. “I’d like that.”

His chest tightened, her simple words filling him with happiness. Spring was months and months away, yet she was willing to make plans with him. He wasn’t sure why, but that single promise made him feel almost overwhelmed with emotion. Maybe it was that, or maybe it was just that he wanted to see if she would say yes, but words suddenly tumbled from his lips, an offer and a request in one.

“We could take a dip now,” he suggested, tilting his head toward the water. Her eyes narrowed, a nervous laugh escaping her lips.

“How?” She questioned, the sound coming out in a breathy whisper, her chest rising and falling rapidly. “We didn’t bring anything to swim in.”

He blinked, his jaw working as he tried to figure out how to calm her nerves, and his own. It was too late to take his words back now, so he plowed forward.

“I don’t normally bring anything to swim in,” he confessed, his throat tight as he watched her carefully. He quickly added, “But I could keep my undershorts on, and you could wear my shirt. Only if you want to, of course.”

She stared at him, and for a moment he worried he had ruined the evening, but then she hesitantly nodded, the smallest of smiles turning up her lips. He breathed a sigh of relief, the tightness in his throat easing.

“Okay, but…” she began, his heart taking a dip as she trailed off. “I want to go in with you, but I can’t swim.”

“I could hold you,” he instantly responded. He was willing to do just about anything if it meant she enjoyed herself tonight. “I can even jump in first.”

She nodded again, eyebrows scrunched together, a smile spreading across her face. He quickly stood up, a sudden wave of nervousness filling him as he slowly unbuttoned his shirt, her eyes tracking his movements. She had seen him in nothing but his undershorts before, but this felt different, more intimate somehow. Maybe it was because she was watching him strip, a surprisingly hungry look in her eyes as his shirt came off. His heart rate quickened, his hands shaking as he continued undressing, holding her gaze the entire time.

When he was in nothing but his undershorts, he backed up slowly and jumped into the water, sending a small splash in Gwyn’s direction. She laughed, the lovely sound echoing across the water, vibrating in his bones. She slowly got to her feet, backing up a few paces away from the edge of the dock, watching him steadily, her face oddly calm. He blinked, realizing he should stop staring.

“I’ll turn around while you undress,” he assured her, wanting her to be as comfortable as possible. “Um, just let me know when you’re ready.”

“You don’t have to turn around,” she told him, knocking the wind out of him. He froze, halfway turned away from her. He slowly turned back, facing her, his heart pounding. “You can look, Azriel. I don’t mind.”

He couldn’t find the words to respond; he was frozen, caught in the magnetic pull of those teal eyes. He wasn’t sure if he was dreaming or if this was real. It certainly felt like a dream as she began undressing, shrugging off the outer layer of her priestess robes, revealing the leggings and tunic underneath. He desperately gulped down air, feeling almost like he was drowning despite having his head above water.

She paused for a moment, long enough to take a few calming breaths, then slowly lifted the hem of her tunic, dragging it over her head and dropping it on the wooden dock. His breath caught, his cock hardening despite the cold water as he took in the sight of her. She was wearing the midnight blue bra with silver stitching that she had picked out at the lingerie shop, the sheer fabric revealing the peaks of her breasts. He couldn’t breathe.

He was so focused on her almost bare torso that he almost didn’t register her removing her leggings, each second revealing more and more of her long legs. His heart started pounding, barely able to remember to keep treading water, unable to rip his eyes away from her. Unsurprisingly, she was wearing the panties that matched her bra, that blasted sheer fabric hugging her perfectly.

She paused again, still holding his gaze, letting him take in all of her. He couldn’t look away even if he wanted to, not with those lovely eyes keeping him frozen in place. He waited for her to reach for the shirt he had discarded, to cover herself, but she just stood there, letting him look his fill. Just when he thought he might be able to breathe again, she began moving once more.

Her hands moved from her sides, slowly twisting around to her back, her eyes never once breaking their hold on him. His heart pounded, his chest heaving as he watched her hands inch farther and farther back. There was no way she was going to do what he thought she was doing, but she had already done more than he had anticipated, so maybe he was wrong. A moment later he got his answer; he was wrong.

Her fingers deftly maneuvered behind her back, then slowly, so slowly, she pulled her arms forward, taking the straps of her bra with her. The bra fell to the ground, leaving her in nothing but her all too sheer panties. He wasn’t sure he was breathing anymore. He wasn’t sure about anything. Was this even real?

She stood still for a long moment, holding his gaze as he drank in the sight of her, too scared to blink for fear she might disappear. But there she was, practically naked in front of him, a delicious flush creeping across her skin. He knew he should move, or say something, but he couldn’t stop staring. Couldn’t rip his eyes away from her gorgeous body.

Bared like this before him, he could see almost everything. He had dreamt of seeing her like this a hundred times, but nothing could compare to the real thing. Her chest heaved with every nervous breath she took, drawing his eyes to her naked breasts. Her pink nipples were peaked from the cool night air, her skin pebbled with goosebumps, the flush on her skin spreading across the tops of her breasts. She was absolutely, devastatingly beautiful.  

He watched as she slowly stepped forward, walking to the edge of the dock, not bothering to pick up the shirt he had offered her. She sat down at the edge, legs dipping into the water, her breath coming in unsteady waves. She was nervous, but the look on her face said she was determined.

She wanted to do this, wanted to take this step with him. The simple fact that she felt safe enough with him to bare herself so fully was something he would never take for granted. He would cherish this. Cherish her.

“Well, now what?” She asked, breaking his trance. He shook his head, trying to focus on her and not his throbbing cock. He slowly moved forward in the water, gently sliding between her slightly spread thighs, pushing them open a little more. The feeling of her skin on his made him want to moan; he wanted her so fucking bad.

“Hold on to me,” he instructed, gliding his hands up her hips to her waist, taking his own sweet time wrapping his hands around her back. He carefully watched her face, searching for any sign of uneasiness, but there was none, only a mild sense of nervousness. She let out a tiny gasp as he pulled her off the dock, sliding her body against his. He eased her in until she could comfortably rest her arms around his neck, her legs wrapping around his waist.

She stared at him as he pushed back, propelling them deeper into the lake, desperately trying to think of anything besides her warm body pressed against his. He closed his eyes, letting the water wash over them, his skin feeling almost feverish even in the cool water. He could feel everything, and it was driving him crazy in the best way possible.

Her breasts were tightly pushing against him, her peaked nipples pressing into his chest, her bare thighs squeezing his waist. He moved one arm under her backside, the other resting on her back, holding her firmly as they floated in the lake. He knew she felt his cock pressing against her, but there was nothing he could do to stop it, not without letting her go. But she didn’t seem to mind, which only made him want her more. She was so damn brave and curious and lovely.

He opened his eyes, swallowing rapidly. “Gwyn, ask me something,” he commanded, desperate for a distraction. Holding her like this was heaven, but it was testing his willpower like nothing else he had ever experienced.

“What?” Gwyn mused, eyebrows quirking in amusement. “Do you want to play Question for a Question?”

“No, I want you to ask me anything,” he begged, his voice coming out breathless. “Please. Whatever you want. As many questions as you want. I’ll answer anything.”

“Azriel, are you okay?” She pressed, lightly gripping his hair at the nape of his neck. He couldn’t help himself, the feeling of her almost naked body combined with her hands in his hair brought a moan to his lips, the sound rumbling through him. Her eyes widened, a small smile teasing her lips, a look of satisfaction slowly filling her eyes.

He timidly smiled back at her, not bothering to explain himself. There was no way she didn’t understand why he had just moaned, so there was no point hiding it. He hesitantly ran his hand along her spine, reveling in the feeling of her soft skin beneath his fingers, his motions earning a small hum of satisfaction from her.

“Bird, I’m fine,” he assured her, ignoring his racing heart. “Ask me anything.”

“Why?” She pushed, running her hands through his damp hair. He shivered, involuntarily tightening his grip on her backside, causing her to clench her thighs around him. She gasped just as he groaned, the two of them looking at each other with slightly shocked expressions. He stared at her for a moment, breathing hard, trying to find an answer for her question, but he couldn’t think.

“Because I can’t think straight with you almost naked in my arms,” he blurted, choking back the fear he felt that she would pull away from him. When she didn’t, he kept talking, his voice growing softer with each word. “I don’t want to scare you, but I can feel every inch of you, and it’s making me want you more than anything. I need a distraction. Please.”

He looked at her, jaw clenched, praying she wouldn’t be scared. But she only stroked his hair, pressing a kiss to his jaw, then leaned her head back for a moment, seeming lost in thought. He watched her, utterly in awe of the female he held in his arms.

“Hmm, will I ever get to hear you sing?” She finally asked, a teasing smile on her face. He laughed, relaxing again. She asked him that same question at least once every other day.

“Maybe,” he promised, as he always did. He knew he would eventually give in, but he liked how persistent she was, so he kept holding out.

She teasingly pouted, her bottom lip quivering. He smiled, leaning in to kiss her, taking her trembling lip in between his teeth and nipping playfully. She kissed him back, pulling him tighter against her. He let her guide the kiss, losing himself in her for a moment.

He finally pulled back with a breathy laugh, his body warmer than ever. “Ask me another question.”

“Why do you like swimming so much?” She whispered, leaning her forehead against his while she caught her breath. He thought about her question, idly tracing the curve of her spine with his fingers.

“Because it’s feels similar to flying,” he explained, using his wings to keep them floating as they talked. “It feels free. Unconfined. I like that feeling.”

“It’s free,” she murmured, peppering his face with soft kisses. “I like that. How are you and Mor doing?”

He raised an eyebrow, pulling back to fully meet her gaze. “That’s an odd question. What do you mean?”

She laughed, tilting her head back, her hair dipping into the water. “I mean, how are you doing? We haven’t talked about it in a while. I just…I don’t know. I want to make sure everything is okay.”

He studied her, the happy ache he was growing accustomed to swelling in his chest. Gods he adored her. “Things are good. I’m happy that…that we can just be family now. I like being able to talk to Mor. And I’m happy for her. I’m just happy.”

“Good, that makes me happy,” she hummed, rubbing her cheek against his, her skin brushing along his stubble. “Can I still ask more questions?”

He nodded against her cheek. He still felt almost dizzy with distraction, the feeling of her breasts against him an intoxicating sensation, every nerve in his body screaming at him to touch, to taste. But he would answer as many questions as she wanted him to. He would do anything to make this moment last, to stay with her like this for as long as possible.

“Where did you get that scar on your hip?” She shyly asked, looking at him through her lashes. He let out a deep laugh, tucking his head into her neck until he recovered. Of course, she would want to know about that.

“I lost a bet,” he mumbled against her skin, tenderly kissing along her shoulder. He felt her shiver, the sensation going straight to his already hard cock. Fuck. This felt good. Too good. He forced himself to pull his lips away, meeting her gaze, a soft flush on her cheeks again.

“It happened when I was much younger. I learned how to fly late, so most of the other males in the camp thought I was weaker than them in the air. After the Blood Rite, they were more antagonistic toward Rhys, Cas and me. So they kept trying to goad us into silly challenges. One day, I had had enough and agreed to race one of them in this ridiculous air course. It was littered with traps. I won. By a lot. But I crashed into a rock outcropping and sliced my hip open at the very end.”

She gaped at him, eyes wide, her face a cross between anger and fear. For a moment, he wondered if he had scared her, but she tightened her hold around his neck, hugging him close to her. Her cheek was pressed into his hair, her firm breasts crushing into his chest, her grip so tight he had no choice but to tuck his head into her shoulder again, letting her hold him.

“Don’t ever do something so stupid again,” she mumbled, her voice strangely shaky. He ran his fingers along her back in soothing strokes, confused why she was so worried. “Azriel, you have to promise me. Don’t do something like that.”

He gently pried her back, tangling his hand in her hair, shocked to find her staring back at him with tears in her eyes, her lips trembling. “Bird, I don’t understand. What’s wrong?”

“You could have gotten yourself killed,” she shot at him, anger in her normally soft voice. “I don’t care how long ago it was. You can’t do things like that. You just can’t.”

“Bird, I…okay,” he agreed, letting her put her head on his shoulder as he stroked her back. “Okay. I promise. I’ll try not to do anything stupid like that again.”

She hummed her response, letting him quietly soothe her. They drifted in the water like that for a while, reveling in the moment. He let his mind wander, luxuriating in how bare she was in his arms. He wanted every night to be like this. To have her wrapped around him, exposed in a way only he got to see. To fall asleep with her cradled in his embrace.

They had only spent one night together, and he was already hooked. He had slept better that single night than he had in longer than he could remember. Something about her presence made his normally chaotic thoughts calm. He could just be when he was with her. He’d never felt like this with anyone. Not even all the years he thought he was in love with Mor. The way he felt with Gwyn was unlike anything he had ever experienced.

“Azriel, can I ask you one more question,” she whispered, bringing him back from his thoughts. She tiled her head up, leaning her forehead against his once more.

“Of course, bird. Anything.”

She scrunched her nose in the way he knew meant she was concentrating. He waited, curiosity building. What had her so hesitant?

“Az, you don’t have to answer this if you don’t want to, but…” she trailed off, seeming to gather her thoughts. “Have you been…were you…touch starved at some point?”

He blinked, the question taking him by surprise. No one had blatantly asked him that. He swallowed, trying to figure out how to tell her. He hardly ever spoke about his past, let alone this, but he wanted her to know, to understand.

“Umm, yes. I was,” he admitted, jaw working rapidly as he looked into her eyes. She patiently waited for him to continue, silently stroking his hair while he collected himself. “I’m…the bastard son of an Illyrian lord. My mother was a maid, and she…he used her. I was the result. He and my stepmother, they…kept me in a cell, in complete darkness except for an hour a day. And I only saw my mother for an hour every week.”

He stopped, his breathing erratic. There was more he needed to explain, but he couldn’t breathe. She continued stroking his hair, holding him while he recovered enough to go on. When he finally caught his breath, he tucked his face into her shoulder, breathing in her scent to stay calm.

“I was kept like that for 11 years, until my father decided I was growing too strong to be held captive. That’s when I was sent to the Illyrian camps, where I met Cas and Rhys.”

“Is that when you got your scars?” She asked when he went quiet again, his fingers digging into the soft skin on her back. She didn’t complain, only holding him tighter in response. “When you were in that cell?”

“Yes, I was burned,” he continued, taking deep, gasping breaths. He hadn’t spoken about this in years, but she needed to know. He wanted her to know. “My two step-brothers decided to find out how fast I could heal, so they burned me. I was eight. By that point, I knew I was a shadowsinger, but I didn’t understand it well enough to defend myself.”

He paused again, focusing on her calming presence. He could feel her shuddering against him, a sure sign she was crying. He hated that his story was causing her pain, but she quietly urged him to go on, so he did.

“When I was in that cell, I only ever experienced affection from my mother. And that was only for an hour each week. When I left, it took years before Cas and Rhys and I grew close, close enough to be affectionate with each other. Rhys’ mother tried, but I was so scared that it took me years before I would accept any physical touch from her, or the rest of Rhys’ family. And even then, the only ones who have ever seen all of me and not run away have been Rhys and Cas. Everyone else has only seen parts of me. Until you.”

He finally stopped, his voice barely a whisper. He normally felt shame sharing his story with people, but this time he only felt relief. Relief that Gwyn knew. She could now understand why he struggled to have people touching him. Why he couldn’t stop himself from needing to touch her constantly. Why he craved her touch like it was a drug.

She pulled back, gently lifting his head so she could see his face. Her eyes were full of tears, the ones that had escaped softly streaming down her cheeks. But there was a fire in her eyes, a fierceness that made him never want to let her go.

“Azriel, I will never run away from you,” she promised, her lip trembling but her voice firm. “You will never have to experience that again. Ever. Okay?”

“Okay,” he murmured, his breathing slowly returning to normal. He felt like a weight had been lifted off his heart. He opened his mouth to say more, but she stopped him.

“I’m not finished,” she shushed him, her fingers tangled in his hair. “I know I still need to take things slow when it comes to sex, but that doesn’t apply to touch. You can touch me as much as you need to. I never want you to feel like you can’t touch me. I trust you. If you’re not sure about something, just ask. Okay?”

He nodded, the lump in his throat preventing him from speaking. She was everything. Absolutely everything. And she was his. This incredible, selfless, lovely female was his. She held him quietly, letting him calm back down. Finally, after what seemed like forever, she asked one last question.

“Azriel, if you could have anything right now, what would it be?” She whispered in his ear, so quietly he almost wasn’t sure he had heard her correctly. He pulled back, studying her face. She watched him patiently, her gaze filled with something he wasn’t sure he was ready to name yet.

“What do you mean?” He asked, unsure he understood what she was asking.

“What do you want most? Right now. In this moment.”

“You,” he instantly responded, not even a second of hesitation. “I only want you.”

She smiled, brushing the hair off his forehead. “You have me.”

He gave her a crooked grin, grazing her jaw with the tip of his nose. She shivered, her fingertips digging into his scalp.

“Azriel, take me back to the dock,” she instructed, surprising him. His head shot up, confusion and worry filling him. But she only smiled, waiting for him to obey her command. He did as she asked, slowly propelling them back to the dock and setting her on the edge. She scooted backward, holding out her hand to bring him with her. He obeyed, utterly confused.

When he was kneeling in front of her, the both of them still almost naked, she gestured to the spot next to her. He silently obeyed, settling himself on the dock beside her. Then she wrapped herself around him, throwing one leg over his, laying her head on his chest, one arm reaching up to play with his hair. They were both soaking wet, her breasts still peaked from the cold, but it felt perfect, like she was meant to be in his arms.

“Gwyn, honey, what are we doing?” He asked, amusement slowly returning to his tone as he wrapped his arms around her. She laughed against him, pressing herself more firmly into his chest.

“We are cuddling,” she informed him, unexpectedly placing soft kisses along his collarbone. “You can’t cuddle the same way in the water. So, I thought this would be better. Is that okay?”

“It’s perfect,” he assured her, letting his hands drift along her bare skin. He knew she wasn’t quite ready for him to touch her in other areas, even if she was exposing some of those places tonight, but this was enough. It was more than enough. He hadn’t realized how much he needed this, to be able to touch someone without worrying if they would flinch away from him. But now that he had it, he couldn’t get enough.

“Azriel?”

“Hmm?”

“I am probably going to fall asleep if you keep doing that,” she mumbled against his skin. He paused mid movement, his hands stopping the idle circles they were tracing on her back. She let out whine, her head raising enough to look at him. “Az, I didn’t say stop.”

“Oh, I…but you just said…” He rambled, shaking his head at her incredulous face. He resumed his stroking, his fingers gliding along her smooth skin. She smiled, then set her head back down.

“I was just trying to tell you that I might fall asleep, but I want to stay with you tonight,” she explained, her fingers softly running along the top of the scar on his hip. “If that’s okay with you.”

“Of course, it is, bird,” he promised, thrilled she had brought this up before he had to ask. He had been hoping she would want to stay with him again.

“Good,” she hummed, kissing his collarbone again. “Then, if I fall asleep, I give you permission to take me to your bed, and to convince me to put on one of your shirts. I’d rather not sleep half naked.”

He softly chuckled, “Okay, I think I can manage that.”

“Thank you,” she murmured, her hand stilling against his hip.

“No, thank you, bird,” he insisted, hugging her tighter to him as he felt her breathing slow. She didn’t argue, too tired to debate with him like she normally would.

He let her drift off, content to just hold her, as she had intended. She had known exactly what he needed without even asking, somehow understanding that simply holding her was enough to soothe him after sharing his story. Underneath the moonlight, her soft body pressed against his, it felt like magic.

It was then that he decided: he would sing for her, eventually. Maybe not soon, but he would do it when the moment was right. When she needed him the most, just like he had needed her tonight. When she needed a little magic, whatever kind he could offer her.

Title: Heated Reunions

Azriel returns after an unexpected work trip and reunites with Gwyn.

Read on AO3

Azriel x Gwyn

Warnings: Mostly steam, but a little fluff

Single POV

Word Count: 4,583

Masterlist

Gwyn slowly made her way toward the library, dragging her feet reluctantly. She had been in the training ring for several hours, reading a book Nesta had lent her in the hopes it might distract her from the absence of a certain Illyrian male. But she had only succeeded in making herself miss him more.

Azriel had unexpectedly been called away the day after Mor’s birthday to investigate a lead with some issue they had been investigating in Vallahan. He had been gone for 11 days. 11 days in which Gwyn had spent almost every minute wishing she could have gone with him. Unfortunately, the situation called for a more experienced spy, one who was rather gifted at disappearing into the shadows. So, she had waited, trying to distract herself with training, library work and books to keep herself from missing him too much. She had only partially succeeded.

As she blindly walked to the library, she let her mind drift, sifting through memories of his mouth on hers, his strong arms cradling her in bed, the contented smile he had had when they had woken up together. She missed him, even if it had only been 11 days.

She was so caught up in her memories that she almost didn’t feel the slight tugging at her wrist. It took her a moment longer than normal before she registered the presence, lifting her head to find a cloud of shadows swirling around her, urging her to turn around. She whirled, twisting on her heels to look behind her. A moment later, she was running, her heart feeling a thousand times lighter.

Azriel opened his arms for her as she ran toward him, meeting him halfway down the hall. She barely registered the delighted look on his face as she threw her arms around him, letting him lift her off her feet as she buried her face in his neck, needing to feel his strong body as close to hers as possible.

They held each other for several minutes, quietly reveling in each other’s presence, both too happy to form words. She closed her eyes, breathing in his soothing scent before his mouth found the exposed skin on her neck, drawing a small gasp from her. She lifted her head, meeting his gaze as he paused his explorations long enough to give her a small smile, his eyes heavy lidded as he dropped his gaze to her lips. She shivered at the hunger in his eyes, then returned his smile and quickly dipped her head, taking initiative and crashing her lips into his.

He immediately reacted, opening his mouth eagerly and tugging her tighter to him. His hands slid down her waist, finding the backs of her thighs to lift her higher. She responded by wrapping her legs around him, her priestess robes falling open to reveal the leggings underneath, his hands gripping her firmly as he began walking, their lips never parting.

He carried her swiftly down the hall, somehow managing to find his way to his room despite being otherwise occupied with kissing her. She buried her hands in his hair, moaning slightly at how good he felt against her. Gods, she had missed this, missed him. She didn’t want this to end; she couldn’t get enough of him. She had never thought she would ever want someone as much as she wanted Azriel, but she did, and it made her heart ache with happiness.

She tilted her head back when they finally pulled away for air, giving him better access to her neck; Azriel only pausing for a moment before beginning to trail his mouth down her jaw. She kept her eyes closed, reveling in his frenzied kisses, not noticing as they entered his room, his shadows shutting the door behind them. She was too lost in him to care about anything else. It wasn’t until a moment later that she realized she should have been paying more attention, they both should have.

Her backside came down on a hard surface, Azriel’s mouth marking a path down her neck as her eyes shot open, a sudden tightness in her chest stealing her breath away. She tried to stop the surge of fear from welling up, but she was caught unguarded, her body going rigid.

Azriel responded instantly, his head snapping up to look at her. He registered what was happening before she could form words, quickly pulling her off the desk he had set her on and settling her on her feet, turning them so he was the one pinned against the desk.

“Gwyn, are you okay?” He asked, breathless from kissing, his face filled with fear and worry. “I’m so sorry. I wasn’t thinking.”

“I’m fine, I just need a minute,” she assured him, leaning into his chest to catch her breath. “I’m sorry for freezing up.”

“Bird, it’s okay,” he murmured against her hair, lightly running his hands up and down her spine. “Don’t apologize. We’re still figuring these things out. I should have been more aware. I’m sorry.”

“It’s not your fault,” she assured him, leaning back and wrapping her arms around his neck, her book from earlier still clutched in her hand - she had almost forgotten she was even carrying it. “I was caught off guard, that’s all.”

“Was it the desk? Or me pinning you against the desk.”

She thought for a moment, trying to remember what it was that had made her freeze. “It was the desk, I think. It wasn’t you.”

“Okay, I’ll remember that for next time,” he promised, brushing back a lock of hair that had come loose from her braid. “No tables. I think I can manage that.”

She let out a breathless laugh, closing her eyes again as he leaned his forehead down to rest against hers, his hands wrapped firmly around her. She would never stop being grateful for how patiently he handled situations like this. He never failed to make her feel safe while also making her feel desirable.

“I missed you,” he whispered after a few moments, his voice soft. She opened her eyes to find him watching her, his shadows swirling around them. She smiled, lightly kissing him.

“I missed you too,” she mumbled against his lips, savoring every second of being in his arms. “I’m glad you’re home.”

“Me too,” he gave her a crooked grin, lightly tugging on her braid. “Are you free for the rest of the night?”

She nodded, overjoyed that she could spend the rest of the night with him, her earlier sadness at his absence completely gone.

“Okay, let me cleanup and then I’m all yours,” he told her, tugging her toward his bathing room. He flicked on a light when he entered, quickly stripping off the tops to his leathers, exposing his perfectly muscled chest. She held in a sigh, eyes roaming his body hungrily as he strode to the sink, warmth spreading across her body.

He met her eyes in the mirror, his satisfied smile bringing a flush to her cheeks. She gripped the book in her hands, trying not to think about what it might feel like to run her fingers along his bare skin. She had seen him shirtless many times now in training, but the only times they had ever been alone while he was so exposed was when they had fallen asleep together. Both times she had wanted to touch him, to trace his tattoos, taste the skin along his collarbone, but she had held back.

She knew he would let her do whatever she asked, but a part of her was scared. Not of touching him, that part excited her, but that she might not do it well. He always seemed to know just how to touch her, how to kiss her, to make her feel warm and dizzy and completely happy. She wanted to do the same for him, especially after what he had done to her after Mor’s party.

Every night he had been gone, she kept remembering how it had felt to have his lips on her stomach, her hips, her thighs. She couldn’t help wondering how it might feel if he kissed her in other areas, more sensitive areas. Her thoughts had shocked her and excited her all at once. She was finally, slowly, beginning to feel safe enough to want to explore things with Azriel. The thought made her almost want to cry from how happy it made her.

“What are you reading?” Azriel inquired, startling her from her fascination with the thin scar that started above his hip bone and trailed beneath his pants. He smirked at her flustered expression, grabbing a towel to dry off his hands. He lazily leaned against the counter, waiting for her to speak.

“It’s a romance,” she forced out, trying to focus on his face rather than the interesting dips of his torso. “Nesta lent it to me.”

“Mm, is it good?” He questioned; eyebrows raised in amusement.

“It’s fine,” she shrugged, tucking the book behind her back.

“Fine? That doesn’t sound appealing,” he quipped, crossing his arms loosely across his chest, the corded muscles in his arms going taught. She turned her face away to hide the warmth spreading across her skin, praying he wouldn’t notice how distracted she was becoming. “Is there something wrong with the story? Too much smut perhaps.”

She shot him a withering stare at his teasing, rolling her eyes dramatically. “No, that’s not it at all. I just don’t like some of the characters.”

“Why not?”

“Because,” she shrugged again, realizing she had backed herself into a corner. She had very specific reasons for not liking certain characters, and now Azriel was going to want to know why.

“Because why?”

She waved her hands in front of her, gesturing wildly with the book, a huff of exasperation escaping her. Azriel only laughed, pushing off the counter and walking toward her as she turned to leave the bathing room. She had barely made it past the threshold before the book was removed from her hand, stolen away by Azriel. She gaped at him, trying to snatch the book back, but he was too tall; he easily kept it out of reach as he strode to his desk.

“Azriel, give that back,” she demanded, following him. He leaned against his desk, legs stretched in front of him as he flipped open the book, thumbing through the pages. She stood in front of him, arms crossed, tapping her foot expectantly.

“I’m reading it,” he smirked, a mischievous glint in his eyes. “Am I not allowed to read romances?”

“You don’t like romances,” she shot at him, her face going crimson as his thumb found her bookmark. Oh no. Not that spot. “It’s also not very well-written. You’ll hate it.

He ignored her, face unreadable as his eyes quickly scanned the pages, a slight furrow between his brows. She tugged on his arm, trying to distract him but only succeeding in getting him to wrap an arm around her, pulling her in between his outstretched legs, his other arm holding the book open. She groaned, leaning her head into his shoulder, awaiting his inevitable teasing.

She heard him take a deep breath before unexpectedly speaking, holding her tightly to him. With each word from his mouth, her face went a deeper shade of red. If she could sink into the floor, she would have.

“This part is interesting,” he mused, studying the pages intently as he began reading aloud. “He thrust wildly, his velvet steel manhood pounding into her with a force that rivaled the mighty waves of the ocean, their bodies slapping loudly against each other with every frenzied stroke into her throbbing womanhood. Her breasts flailed as her body jerked against the mattress, his eyes drinking in the sight of her pert nipples as his mouth wrapped around the tip of one swollen mound, their combined juices soaking her core and spilling onto the sheets as she reached the final summit of pleasure with his name on her lips.”

As Azriel finally came to a stop, his body shaking with silent laughter against her, she groaned into his shoulder again, dreading what he might say next. She heard him snap the book closed and set it on the desk, his other arm coming around to stroke her back. She kept her face hidden, refusing to meet his amused gaze.

“Well, that was interesting,” he chuckled, lightly running his hand along her braid. “So, was it the smut that made you dislike the characters or something else?”

She mumbled unintelligibly against his neck, still not lifting her head to look at him. When she didn’t say anything, he continued.

“Gwyn, you can talk to me,” he reminded her, his lips grazing the shell of her ear, sending a shiver down her spine. “We’ve discussed this. It’s okay to tell me about your books, even the smutty parts.”

“It’s silly,” she whined, slowly raising her head. His eyes were less amused than she thought they would be, instead filled with concern.

“It’s not silly, Gwyn. Not if it matters to you.”

She frowned, but gave in, steeling herself to explain. “I…I don’t like the male love interest because he doesn’t talk…during sex.”

“Ohhh,” Azriel hummed, his head tilting inquisitively. “And you prefer it when the male does talk?”

She scrunched her nose up in concentration, trying to think of how to explain. “Sort of. I don’t mind if there are quiet moments, but…”

“But what?” Azriel gently pushed when she paused. She was slowly relaxing, his calm demeanor giving her the courage to tell him exactly what was on her mind.

“This male doesn’t talk at all,” she finally said, lips pressed into a thin line of annoyance, not at Azriel but at the book. “That scene you read, that was the second time the couple had had sex and it wasn’t any better than the first scene.”

Azriel frowned, studying her with a steadiness that always soothed her. “What do you mean?”

“Well, in the first scene, the male sort of just…” she trailed off, a flush creeping up her neck once more. “The female had never had sex before, and when they first…have sex, the male just….”

“Just what?”

“He just…thrusts into her…without a word,” Gwyn finally got out, taking a deep breath before continuing. “Both scenes were consensual, but they don’t discuss anything. There is no dialogue at all. It bothered me.”

“Hmm, and Nesta liked this book?” Azriel asked, his hands gliding up her back.

“No, she doesn’t like this author much either,” she explained, setting her hands gently on his bare shoulders. “Emerie refuses to read anything from this author, but Nesta still reads it because she likes to critique them, so I read them too so she has someone to whine to about them.”

“I see,” Azriel mused, head quirked to the side, an odd glint in his eyes. “So, you don’t mind quiet moments, but you like some talking. Right?”

She timidly nodded, holding his curious stare.

“What kind of talking?”

“What do you mean?”

He bit his lip before responding. “What kind of talking do you like? There are different styles, I’m curious what you enjoy more.”

“I…I’m not sure,” she admitted, looking down at the floor to avoid his eyes for a moment, her heart pounding. “Can you…can you explain?”

“Sure,” he agreed, placing a soft kiss to her forehead, lifting her chin up with his fingers. “There is more straight-forward communication, which isn’t necessarily sexual, but can be quite stimulating. And there is dirty talk, which is much, much more sexual and usually only serves the purpose of trying to arouse yourself or your partner.”

She stared at him, swallowing rapidly. “Could you…tell me an example of each?”

“Are you sure you want me to?”

“Yes,” she promised, more curious than nervous. She wanted to know what he would say. “It’s okay, Az. You can say anything. You already read my book.”

He chuckled, then tilted his head again, studying her face. After he seemed to decide she wasn’t going to run away at his first words, he pulled her firmly against his chest, his mouth coming to rest right next to her ear, his breath tickling her skin.

“Can I put my hands on your ass?” He whispered into her ear; his voice low, rough. She involuntarily shuddered, her knees trembling. She gripped his shoulders, digging her nails into his smooth skin.

“Yes,” she nodded, voice shaking. She was warm all over, her body flooded with heat and desire. A breathy sound escaped her lips as his hands drifted from her back, slowly falling to her backside. He gently set his hands on her ass, his fingers gripping ever so slightly as he whispered in her ear again.

“That was straight-forward communication,” he explained, kissing her neck before moving his head to the other side of her face, his lips grazing her other ear. She waited, heart pounding as she anticipated his next words.

“I am so fucking hard for you right now,” he rumbled, dragging the sound of each word out. Heat flooded straight to her core, her mind going fuzzy. She swallowed; her mouth suddenly dry. She dared a glance between their bodies, a small sound of surprise escaping her when she realized he was being honest, the evidence was right in front of her.

“Umm, was that dirty talk?” She managed to ask, meeting his lust filled gaze, his pupils blown out as he nodded. She was acutely aware of every millimeter of space his hands were touching, the light grip he had on her making her want to clench her thighs together. It was such an odd sensation, being so openly aroused, and yet she didn’t mind.

After a long moment of staring at each other, he asked. “So, which do you prefer?”

“I…I like both,” she confessed, a small smile teasing her lips at the pleased look on his face. His clear desire brought an unexpected wave of courage to course through her. She had wanted to do something for weeks, even more so after what he had done following Mor’s party, and now she had the opportunity. “Azriel, could I try something?”

He smiled softly. “Anything.”

“Are you sure?”

A firm nod was her only answer, one hand coming up to softly brush her hair back. She swallowed again, taking a calming breath.

“Okay, but I…I need you to hold still,” she instructed, throwing back her shoulders. Her heart was pounding, her body buzzing with nervous energy. “I’m a little nervous, and it would help me if you stood perfectly still. Can you do that?”

Another nod, followed by his hands moving to rest on the edge of the desk, his body going utterly motionless as he studied her.

“Close your eyes,” she commanded, taking one last deep breath as his eyes shuttered. His throat bobbed, a slight shudder running through him as she slowly slid her hands along his shoulders, gliding up his neck until her fingers were buried in his soft hair. She looked at him for a long minute, reveling in how willing he was to put his body in her hands, how easily he handed over control to her.

With a small smile, she moved, bringing her lips down to his and softly kissing him, savoring his taste as his mouth opened for her, giving her freedom to do as she liked. She took her time, letting her tongue explore every inch of his mouth, her hands running through his silky strands before gliding back down his neck. She dragged her hands down his spine, her fingertips digging in ever so slightly, the tightening of his muscles the only indication he was affected.

He was doing a wonderful job obeying her instructions, but she could tell he was already struggling to hold still - yet she had only just begun. She moved away from his mouth, working her way down to his jaw, a shiver running through her as his stubble grazed her skin. She kissed her way down his neck, stopping at the base of his throat, just at the top of his shoulder. His arms strained against the desk, his knuckles white as her tongue lightly ran across his skin, tasting him.

She pulled away to catch her breath, smiling when she realized she wasn’t the only one breathless. His chest was heaving, his hands clenched on the desk, his muscles tensed. She gently brought her hands back to his shoulders, pausing to watch him before finally doing what she had wanted to do since the first time she had seen him shirtless.

Her fingers began tracing his tattoos, following the swirling patterns along his shoulders and down his chest, mapping them, memorizing them. She let out a soft sigh, reveling in the feeling of his skin beneath hers, the tattoos occasionally interrupted by delicate scars, hidden beneath the black ink. She traced every single line, letting her hands stop at his collarbone when she had finished.

Her heart was racing, her body aching with want. The fear she was worried she might experience was nonexistent; she felt nothing but desire. She wanted to keep touching him, tasting him - so she did.

She dragged her fingers down his chest, gliding over his hard muscles as she brought her head back down. She kissed his shoulders, letting her tongue slip out to taste his collarbone, mapping his torso with her lips. Her hands continued drifting, dropping to his abdomen, tracing the hard lines. For a small moment, she worried if she was doing this wrong, but her concern was quickly erased when her fingers grazed along his hip bones and a deep moan escaped him.

“Gwyn, fuck,” he groaned, head thrown back as he gripped the desk, eyes clamped shut. “Kiss me, please. Gwyn, please.”

She willingly obliged his pleading, working her way back up his neck until she found his mouth again, brazenly sucking on his lower lip. He moaned into her, his resistance breaking, a scarred hand cupping the back of her neck to bring her closer. The kiss was frenzied, needy, wild. And she loved it. She couldn’t believe how undone he was just by her simple ministrations.

As their mouths devoured each other, hungrily tasting, exploring, her fingers worked their way down his abdomen, one hand searching for the scar she had been fascinated with earlier. She softly traced the scar from the top, grazing her fingertips along the slightly raised line, following its path down, down, down until she hit the edge of his pants.

Spurred on by his needy kisses, she found the courage to go farther, to dip her fingers beneath the hem of his pants, hesitantly following the scar farther down. He gasped into her, his other hand gripping her waist, their bodies pressed firmly against one another. They had never been so uncontrolled before, so desperate. Despite their frenzied actions, she felt safe. Safe enough to let her hands slowly slide down, tracing that delightful scar.

Her fingers were only a few inches below the edge of his pants when her hand was wrenched away, her hand gripped tightly in one of Azriel’s larger ones. He pulled away from the kiss, chest heaving, leaving her shocked and confused. She was only left without an explanation for a moment before Azriel was gasping out a name.

“Cassian,” he choked out a split second before the door to his room burst open. Azriel’s wings snapped around her, concealing half of her body, his shadows deepening around them.

“Cassian, get out!” Azriel demanded, the sound of something being thrown towards the door meeting her ears. Her face was flushed from embarrassment and the after-effects of her impromptu explorations.

“Oh shit, I didn’t know you weren’t alone,” Cassian laughed, his deep rumble echoing across the room. “I just saw the light.”

“Get the fuck out, Cass! Clearly, I am not alone.”

“Sorry, I’m going, I’m going,” Cassian chuckled, seeming unbothered by the scene he had stumbled into. “I’ll talk to you later. Have fun!”

With that, he shut the door behind him, leaving Gwyn alone with Azriel once more. Azriel slowly uncurled his wings, releasing his grip on her wrist. She met his gaze, her face flushed, lips swollen, hair a mess. He looked about the same as her, eyes dazed and cheeks delightfully red. A giggle escaped her, a smile slowly spreading across her face. Oh, that was wonderful. She wanted to do it again and again.

“Well…fuck,” he laughed, running a hand through his hair, his other arm wrapped securely around her. “Gwyn, honey, I…I don’t have words. That was amazing.”

She sheepishly smiled, tucking her face into his chest. “Are you sure? Was it okay?”

“Gwyn, it was so much more than okay,” he earnestly assured her, his chin wresting on her head. “It was incredible. You can do that whenever you want.”

“Mm, okay,” she grinned against his skin, breathing in his comforting scent. Gods, she had missed him.

“Gwyn?”

“Hmm?”

“I…I’m curious if…,” he trailed off, mulling over his words. “What you just did, was any of that part of the kissing tips you learned from Nesta, Emerie and Mor?”

Her head shot up, almost colliding with his chin. She gaped at him, surprised he had even remembered that. His eyebrows were raised in amusement, his lips fighting a smile.

“Yes, some of it was,” she hesitantly admitted, slowly smiling when his face broke into a crooked grin, pure delight shining in his eyes.”

“Remind me to thank them later,” he chuckled, dipping his head to kiss her again. Before his lips could make contact, the bedroom door burst open again, too fast for him to shield her this time. He groaned dramatically, head snapping toward the door. “Nesta, what the hell?”

Gwyn looked to the doorway to find Nesta grinning with glee, leaning against the doorframe like she had been invited. Gwyn stifled a giggle, blushing when Nesta waved at her.

“What?” Nesta asked, feigning innocence. “I was only coming to say hello.”

Azriel huffed. “Well, you’ve said hello. Get out.”

“Oh hush,” Nesta chided, waving a hand at him. “Gwyn, I was coming to see if you two were staying for dinner, but I see you’re busy, so I’ll leave you to it.”

Nesta turned on her heel, closing the door behind her as Gwyn burst into laughter, her body shaking against Azriel.

“They are both busybodies,” Azriel remarked, frowning at the door. Gwyn placed a kiss on his cheek, bringing his attention back to her.

“They love us though,” she argued, lightly kissing his jaw.

“Yes, but right now, I wish they would love us a little less,” he whined, tucking his face into her neck. “I just want to be alone with you for a while. Can I take you somewhere?”

“Sure,” she agreed, wanting to be alone with him as bad as he did. “I’m all yours. Take me anywhere.”

He leaned back up, studying her, a smile slowly spreading across his handsome face. He kissed her deeply, cradling her face in his hands, then headed for the door, grabbing her hand and leading her out. She happily followed, excited for whatever adventure he was going to take her on.

It’s smut, that’s the plot summary. Its smut.

Note:  This piece was inspired by the gorgeous art just below the cut. Please go check out the artist (Here is their twitter account: @ellyness5 and here is their Instagram) and show them love!

Read on AO3

Azriel x Gwyn

Warnings: NSFW! It’s just pure smut. Proceed at your own risk.

Word Count: 5,193

Masterlist

Here is the link to this incredible art! Please show the artist some love!

***************************************************

Gwyn gave herself one last look in the mirror of her and Azriel’s shared bathing room, wanting to make sure she looked perfect before walking into the bedroom. She had put on a lacy, sheer pair of panties - a blue pair that she knew Azriel liked – and a matching camisole, and absolutely nothing else.

Azriel had been gone all day for work, only returning after dinner. By that time, all Gwyn wanted was to spend the rest of her evening in bed, tangled up with her mate for as long as possible. But it seemed Azriel had different ideas, as he had gone straight to his desk in their bedroom to look over reports for Rhys. So she had decided to resort to alternative methods to get him into bed with her.

She smiled at herself in the mirror, satisfied with her appearance. With a deep breath to steady herself, she strode into the bedroom, ignoring Azriel as he lifted his head toward her. She crawled onto the bed, lazily sprawling out on her back, knees bent to show off her legs; a guaranteed way to capture her mate’s attention.

As she turned to look at Azriel, she forced herself not to smile at his hungry gaze. His hand had paused mid motion, his jaw slightly slack as he perused his reports. Her plan was clearly working, as she knew it would. He never said no to her, especially not when she was offering herself so willingly.

“What are you doing?” She asked coyly, toying with the hem of her camisole so her stomach was slightly exposed. She watched him bite his lip before he turned back to his papers, running a hand through his hair. She huffed in frustration, desperately wanting him to come to bed and have his way with her, the sight of his shirtless torso having only made her want him more.

“I’m reading reports,” he replied, avoiding her annoyed gaze. She knew he wasn’t oblivious to what she was doing, the way he shifted in his chair told her as much. “What are youdoing?”

“Why don’t you come over here and find out?” She smiled, turning onto her stomach so her ass was in the air. He noted the movement, his eyes flicking over to her before going back to those damned papers. He was so stubborn sometimes.

“I need to finish these first,” he told her, flashing her a crooked smile and a wink. “I’ll come to bed soon, I promise.”

“Az, can’t the reports wait until tomorrow?” She whined, pouting. He turned, giving her his undivided attention for a moment. “I want you to come to bed.”

He narrowed his eyes at her, letting out a deep sigh, lips clearly fighting a smile. She thought she had won, excitement quickly building, but it almost immediately turned to annoyance with his next words.

“Can you give me 20 minutes?” He cajoled her, letting his eyes roam her body. She shifted, her thighs clamping together at the unconcealed desire on his face. “Please? My shadows can keep you company until then.”

“Fine,” she conceded, rolling over onto her back again. “But only 20 minutes.”

He didn’t respond, but she heard him chuckle, the sounds of him flipping through papers starting again. She closed her eyes, trying to ignore the ache in her core. A moment later, she felt his shadows graze the small bit of skin exposed on her abdomen, teasing her. She pulled the hem of her camisole up farther, revealing more of her stomach.

His shadows began a lazy exploration of her, caressing her skin, nipping gently at more sensitive spots. She kept her eyes shut, reveling in their thorough ministrations, a slight gasp escaping her as she felt the shadows slip beneath the camisole, their ghostly touch grazing her peaked nipples.

She squirmed when she felt the shadows delve into her panties, ghosting along her aching pussy. She spread her legs, letting them fall open as the shadows worked her over, teasing her, coaxing her gently closer to the edge. She opened her eyes for a moment to see Azriel, still studying his reports but subtly adjusting himself in his pants.

The sight only made her burn more, wetness pooling between her legs. His shadows continued exploring her, pleasuring her in the way she had grown accustomed too. It felt like a feather was being dragged along her body, followed by gentle pressure in her most sensitive areas, almost like the soft caress of teeth or a hand. And they went everywhere – along her spine, her thighs, her breasts, her clit. Teasing her, drawing her closer and closer to the release she craved.

Before long, she was moaning softly, arching her back and squirming on the bed. She was already so eager to be touched by Azriel that his shadows were easily bringing her close to climaxing. She lost track of how much time had passed, only occasionally looking over to Azriel; his hungry gaze and the obvious hardness in his pants the only signs he was aroused.

Whether 20 minutes had passed or only two, she had no idea. All she knew was that if Azriel didn’t come to bed soon, she was going to combust. His shadows kept bringing her to the edge before slowing down their motions, keeping her from falling into blissful oblivion. She whined in frustration, deciding that if her mate was going to deny her what she wanted, then she would make him suffer for it.

She reached her hand down to the edge of her panties, slowly sinking her fingers beneath the flimsy fabric. At the first touch to her clit, she gasped, the sensitive bud throbbing with need. Azriel’s shadows were still teasing her, which only drove her further, dragging her hand down her wet folds until she could feel her entrance. She pushed two fingers inside of herself, gasping as she finally felt some semblance of the pressure she craved, clamping her legs together to increase the friction.

She began to thrust her fingers, her moans filling the room. But just as she began quickening her pace, a scarred hand grabbed her wrist, gently tugging her hand away and pulling her arm above her head. She groaned, rolling halfway onto her side in frustration. She felt Azriel crawl over her, straddling her hip, his free hand gripping her waist so she couldn’t roll onto her stomach. She forced her eyes open, finally meeting his gaze as he slowly released her hand.

She pouted at him, sitting up on one elbow to look at him better. She was trapped between his legs, his hard cock pressing against the side of her ass as he straddled her. He still had pants on, and it only worsened her frustration. First, he wouldn’t let his shadows make her orgasm, then he had stopped her from making herselforgasm, and now he was still denying her by having those stupid pants on.

“That was rude,” she huffed, glaring at him with as much annoyance as she could muster, but she was far too aroused and sensitive now to put any real bite behind her words.

“I told you to wait,” he reminded her, the hand on her waist drawing lazy circles on her bare skin, her camisole having ridden up almost to her breasts. “I just needed 20 minutes to finish reports and then I was going to come do whatever you wanted. But you didn’t wait.”

“Well, it’s been more than 20 minutes,” she argued, although she had no idea how long it had been. All she cared about was getting him to touch her. “You made me wait longer than you promised. That’s not fair.”

“I did not,” he shot back, pressing himself harder against her. She bit back a moan, the feeling of his hard body against hers making her mind go fuzzy. “In fact, it has only been 15 minutes.”

“I…still,” she squirmed, trying to force him to shift off of her but only succeeding in making his cock press tighter against the side of her ass. “You wouldn’t let me cum.”

“True, but…” he drawled, biting his lip before continuing. She clamped her thighs together, desperate for any kind of friction. “You know I like to hear you beg.”

“Well, I’m not going to beg tonight,” she replied, knowing as the words left her mouth that they were a lie. She would beg, happily, as long as she got what she wanted, which was him…everywhere.

“Hmm, are you sure about that?” he whispered, leaning down so his mouth hovered just above the sensitive spot below her ear. He dragged his teeth along her skin, earning a needy moan from her. “Would you like me to test that theory?”

She should have told him no, made him wait, but her resistance was gone. She wanted her mate to touch her. Wanted him to bury himself in her and make her moan his name. She wanted to beg. She wanted to see the satisfied smile on his face that he always got when she said please.

“Yes,” she whispered, the single word bringing a devilish smirk to Azriel’s face. She clenched her thighs tighter, anticipating the delicious things he was going to do to her. She knew how well he knew her body, how expertly he could make her cum over and over again. It was only a matter of how he planned to go about pleasuring her.

He gently turned her onto her back, slipping his hands under her camisole in the process. His hands grazed over her breasts, her back arching as his fingers rubbed against her nipples. He slowly, too slowly, removed her camisole, tossing it across the room. And then his mouth found hers, drawing her into a deep kiss before he dragged his mouth along her jaw, working his way down her neck.

She raised her hips up, trying to find friction, but he pushed her back down. The next moment, his mouth was on her breast, his teeth biting at her nipple, sucking and pulling. She moaned loudly, trying to tug him closer, but he pulled away, leaving her gasping.

Before she could question him, he had hooked his fingers in her panties and tugged, swiftly stripping them off her. He sat back on his heels for a moment, taking in the sight of her, spread out on the bed for him. Then he straddled one of her legs, easing her thighs open wider, his hands gliding up her stomach until they firmly squeezed her breasts, pinching her nipples between his thumb and index fingers.

He kissed her again, lazily exploring her mouth with his tongue, his hands roaming over her body. She ran her hands down his chest, finding her way to the edge of his pants. She was about to undo the top button of his pants when he stopped her, gripping her wrists in one of his large hands, pinning them down.

“Uh uh,” he tsked, shaking his head, a mischievous glint in his eyes. “Remember, I want to make you beg first.”

She let out a small whine, struggling against his strong grasp, but said nothing. She was already close to begging, but he didn’t need to know that.

He smirked at her, bringing her hands up to his mouth and lightly kissing her knuckles before releasing her, allowing her to prop herself on her elbows. He pushed her legs even farther apart, then slowly brought a hand toward her core, his other hand firmly planted on her hip, keeping her in place.

She watched as his fingers danced closer to where she wanted them, his hard cock pressing into her leg as he straddled her. He looked at her, holding her gaze as he dragged a long finger up her center, coming to rest on her clit. She groaned, relief flooding through her as he slowly started circling her clit with his finger, the hand on her hip preventing her from grinding her core into his touch.

She gripped his wrist, trying to urge him on, but he shook his head again, a silent command to let go; he wanted to decide how this went. She could have argued, but she didn’t want to. She had wanted him to do exactly this all night, and now that he was doing it, she wasn’t about to complain or fight it.

“Lie back, sweetheart,” he coaxed her, his voice rough, full of his own aching need. “Let me take care of you.”

She moaned, falling onto her back as his fingers slipped lower, teasing her entrance. In one smooth motion, he thrust two fingers inside of her, reaching far deeper than her smaller hands could manage. She cried out, arching her back into his hand.

“You’re so wet,” he rumbled as he slowly dragged his fingers out, drawing a needy whine from her. He brought his hand to his mouth, slowly sucking on the two fingers that had just been inside of her. He let out a groan of satisfaction, teasing her as he dropped his hand back down to her pussy.

He slid his thumb to her clit, slowly easing his long fingers back into her throbbing core; his pace slow, lazy, as he began thrusting his fingers and rubbing her clit. She clenched her pussy around him, desperately trying to find release. He only smirked at her, his fingers never quickening their pace, his eyes never leaving her.

Tension built in her core, her soft moans and whimpers filling the room as he continued torturously thrusting his fingers in and out of her throbbing pussy, his shadows resuming their earlier explorations of her body. She gripped the sheets to keep herself from reaching down and encouraging him to go faster; she knew if she tried that, he would stop.

Each thrust of his fingers brought her closer, her inner walls continuing to clench around him, his thumb circling her clit maddeningly. She was close, so close. Her moans grew louder as he watched her squirm beneath him, a look of ravenous desire on his face. But he was dragging this out, keeping his pace slow enough to drive her crazy, never letting her reach her peak.

When his fingers plunged into her once more, pulling out so slowly it made her want to scream, she gave in. She didn’t want to resist him anymore. She only wanted him to make her cum, to replace his fingers with his cock. She wanted to lose herself in him, in the perfect way he always helped her find her pleasure.

“Az…” she whimpered, pushing her hips up as much as his firm hold would allow. “Please. Please make me cum.”

He chuckled; his fingers still buried inside of her. “That’s all you had to say, sweetheart.”

With that, he pulled his hand away, leaving her gaping at him in shock and frustration, her chest heaving as she tried to catch her breath. He slid off the bed, undoing the buttons on his pants. She watched him, fumbling for words.

“Az, I…” she choked out breathlessly, sitting up on her elbows, her core aching torturously. Her body was flushed and trembling, the wetness between her legs a reminder of how badly she needed him. “I…I begged. I asked you…”

“Shhh,” he consoled her, quickly removing his pants and undershorts, leaving him bare before her. She bit her lip as she watched his cock spring free, fully erect, precum present on his tip. “I’m going to make you cum, I promise. Get on your hands and knees.”

She immediately obeyed, scrambling to get in the requested position, ignoring his amused chuckle. She looked over her shoulder, clenching her thighs together as he crawled behind her. She was shaking, her body burning with need and desire, her core practically dripping with her arousal. She needed him to touch her – desperately.

He knelt directly behind her, his cock pressing against her backside, one of his hands reaching down to spread her thighs apart, his fingers teasing her entrance. She half sobbed, still sensitive from his previous ministrations.

“Azriel,” she whimpered as he brought his cock toward her entrance, the tip pressing into her. “I’m not going to last long. I need you. Please.”

“I know, sweetheart,” he assured her, one hand gripping her hip, the other lightly pumping his cock. “It’s okay. Let me make you feel good. All right?”

She eagerly nodded, angling her hips up to give him better access. He chuckled, stroking the tip of his cock through her wet folds, pressing against her opening.

“So eager,” he murmured, then thrust into her in one quick motion, both of them groaning as their bodies finally came together. No matter how many times they did this, she would never get over just how perfect he felt inside of her.

He didn’t give her time to relax, setting a punishing pace from the start. One hand guided her against him, gripping her hip so tightly she was sure it would bruise. His other arm wrapped around her, his hand kneading one of her breasts as he leaned against her back. His lips trailed up her spine before he came to her neck, sucking and nibbling at the sensitive skin at the base of her throat, all the while thrusting his cock into her core at a dizzying pace.

She clung to the hand on her breast, holding herself up with one arm, the sounds of skin slapping against each other and their cries of ecstasy filling the room. She was already so close, but he was relentlessly pushing her closer. Each thrust of his cock slamming into that certain spot in her pussy, the one that never failed to make her cry his name in pleasure.

His hand moved from her breast, dropping to the base of her stomach to lift her, pulling her back until they were both kneeling, giving his cock an entirely new angle to fuck her from. He thrust up, and up and up; never once pausing in his quest to help her find release. With each stroke upward, he pulled her body tighter against him, bringing her hips down to meet his hard thrusts.

She couldn’t breathe, couldn’t think straight; every inch of her body felt like it was on fire. And then his fingers were spreading her wet folds, finding her clit and rubbing it in steady circles, making her cry out in pleasure. The hand that had been on her hip came up to her breast, resuming kneading her, pinching her nipple and overwhelming her senses as he continued his bruising pace inside her.

She was sure she was making obscene noises, but she didn’t care. All she could think of was him. Of the way his cock felt inside of her as he pounded into her, his scarred hand teasing her clit, his shadows caressing her everywhere. His mouth came back to her neck as her head fell against him, his lips bringing a fresh wave of heat rushing through her.

She was close, impossibly close. She held onto him, encouraging the hand on her clit to rub harder, to fuck her faster. She wanted him, wanted to feel herself cum for him. She was almost sobbing his name, barely able to tell where she began and he ended. She was his, completely and utterly his. She never wanted this to end.

“Az,please,” she begged, moaning as they fell forward, his strong arm supporting them. “Azriel, please. Please. I’m almost there. Please.”

“Gwyn, you’re doing so well,” he encouraged her, his cock still slamming into her over and over again. “So fucking well. I want to feel you cum for me, sweetheart. Please.”

She nodded as best she could, her body trembling with the force of this thrusts. His hand kept working her clit, the combined pressure of his fingers and his cock driving her closer to climaxing. Her pussy clenched around his cock as her orgasm finally, blissfully, crashed through her, his motions never once slowing as he brought her over the edge.

She came with his name on her tongue, wave after wave of pleasure coursing through her, making her almost scream his name in ecstasy. He rode her through her orgasm, slowly easing his pace inside of her as she collapsed in his arms. He kept her from falling, giving her clit one last gentle stroke before he wrapped his arms around her, easing his cock out of her.

She whimpered at the sudden emptiness, her body shaking from how hard she had cum. He eased her onto the bed, turning her onto her back as he shifted until he was kneeling between her legs, his cock still erect. It took her a moment to realize he hadn’t cum yet. She tried to form words, but her mind was a hazy mess of bliss.

He leaned down, supporting himself with one arm to avoid crushing her, peppering her jaw and neck with kisses. She wrapped her arms around his neck, closing her eyes and letting him soothe her trembling body. Somehow, despite how hard he had just fucked, her, she still wanted more.

“Gwyn, sweetheart?” He murmured against her jaw, his hands stroking her sides, her legs, everywhere. She could feel his hard cock pressing against her stomach, making her ache for him all over. She wanted more, she needed more.

“Yes?” she managed to murmur, running her hands down his back, digging her nails into his skin the way she knew he liked. He groaned, his hips rolling forward slightly.

“Gwyn, can I make you cum one more time?” He asked, almost pleading, voice raw with desire.

“Yes, please,” she agreed, spreading her legs wider for him.

“How?” He pressed, dragging his teeth along her neck. She moaned, tilting her head back to give him better access. “How do you want me to make you cum this time?”

“Mmm, like this,” she instructed, bringing her legs up to wrap around him. “Just like this. Please, Azriel.”

“Anything you want,” he promised, gripping one of her legs and guiding his cock toward her entrance with his other hand. “Anything for you, love.”

He sunk into her, his cock filling her once more. Only, this time, he took his time, easing into her slowly until he was buried to the hilt. She arched her back into him, dragging her hands down his back. He let out a low moan, his head dropping onto her shoulder as his cock filled her.

“I want to take my time,” he whispered, scarred hands stroking her outer thighs. “I want to make love to you. Is that okay, sweetheart?”

“Yes,” she agreed, stroking his back and planting kisses along his shoulder. “I want this. I want you to cum with me. Please, Azriel.”

He nodded against her shoulder, his strong body pressing into her, his shadows swirling above them, enveloping them in darkness. She closed her eyes, losing herself in Azriel’s warmth, in the blissful sensation of him inside of her. He began slowly moving, thrusting into her with long, leisurely motions. She wrapped her legs around his waist, drawing him closer.

He held onto her, hands exploring her body gently, almost reverently. His lips tracing paths along her neck, her mouth, her breasts. His slow movements allowing her to fully revel in him; their bodies moving in perfect harmony. For every one of his strokes inside of her, she lifted her hips to meet him, trying to help him reach his climax.

She wanted to cum with him, to feel him spilling inside of her. He was always so thorough with her, ensuring she experienced nothing but pleasure when they were together, so she always tried to make sure he was as satisfied as her by the time they finished. She loved exploring his body as much as she loved when he explored her.

He moved his hands to her outer thighs, gripping her tightly as he met her stroke for stroke, his thrusts slowly becoming more erratic. She clung to him, kissing every inch of skin she could reach as his head fell onto her shoulder again, his deep moans telling her he was getting close. She could feel her own orgasm approaching, her body still overly sensitive from before, tension coiling in her core.

“Gwyn, I’m…I’m so close,” he groaned into her neck, his thrusts increasing in tempo, his grip on her legs tightening. “You feel so good. So fucking good.”

“Az, please,” she moaned, her fingers digging into his back as his cock pounded into her. “I want to cum with you. Please. I love you. Please.”

“I love you too, Gwyn,” he murmured, lifting his head to look at her, his muscled chest heaving as his cock twitched inside of her, his climax approaching. “Just hold on, sweetheart.”

She did as he asked, keeping her legs wrapped around him as he moved his arms, supporting himself with one hand next to her head while his free hand trailed down her body. She clung to his shoulders, looking between them to watch him slide his hand down to her clit, finding the sensitive bundle and rubbing gently. The sensation caused her to cry out, gasping for air as pleasure coursed through her.

His pace turned frenzied, his cock rapidly slamming in and out of her aching pussy. She held on as he had requested, letting him take her however he pleased. He kept rubbing her clit, panting and moaning her name as she stared between their bodies, watching his fingers and his cock working her toward that wonderful release.

His head dropped against her once more, trapping his hand between them as he continued rubbing her, his cock pounding into her wildly. She moaned his name against his neck, clenching her inner walls around his cock, driving him to go harder, deeper. She could feel herself drawing closer to the edge, but she wanted him to cum first.

She slowly stroked his back before removing one of her hands, reaching up toward his wings. He was too lost in her to notice, still moaning her name against her skin. She grazed her hand along his wings, dragging her fingers along the spot she knew was extra sensitive near his shoulder blade, pressing just hard enough for him to notice.

He let out a deep groan as she moved her hand, his teeth clamping down on her shoulder, marking her with a pleasurable bite. With one last caress of her fingers, he came, spilling inside of her as he continued thrusting, his body shuddering with pleasure. His fingers moved faster on her clit, their expert ministrations bringing her over the edge with him.

She cried out his name as her own climax hit, pleasure washing over her as he rode her through their orgasms, drawing out every last bit of ecstasy. Both of them were trembling, clinging to each other as he slowed his pace, easing them through their highs. He finally stilled inside of her, his fingers still gently rubbing her clit as her body shuddered, both of them breathing heavily.

He eased out of her, earning a small whine from her at the loss of his fullness inside of her, the results of their combined orgasms dripping from her pussy. He collapsed next to her, his hand stopping its motions but still cupping her softly, one of his legs draped between hers, his head tucked by her neck.

They stayed like that until they had both caught their breath, his hand resting gently between her legs. She closed her eyes while she stroked his back, trying to match her breathing with his to steady herself. She felt like she was floating, her whole body warm and loose and utterly satisfied. He had done exactly as she had hoped, not holding back in the slightest.

“Gwyn,” he finally mumbled, pulling his hand away from her core to lift himself up enough to see her. His eyelids were drooping, sleepiness setting in, a satisfied smile on his lips. She grinned at him, cupping his cheek softly.

“Yes?”

“I was going to suggest a bath, but…” he trailed off, a slightly sheepish expression on his face as he looked between them at her spread legs, her thighs glistening from the results of their activities. She should be more bothered by it, but she couldn’t bring herself to care. “I’m exhausted. You wrecked me, sweetheart. Do you mind if I just get a cloth?”

She burst into laughter, leaning up to kiss him before responding. “That’s fine, Az.”

He nodded sleepily, quickly jumping off the bed and disappearing into their bathing room. He returned a moment later with a damp cloth to help her clean up, having already cleaned himself in the bathing room. He knelt on the bed beside her, gently rubbing her legs as he spread them slightly wider.

He tenderly cleaned her, leaning down to press soft kisses to her thighs, kissing his way up to her mouth when he had finished. He let his shadows take care of the cloth, collapsing half on top of her as he pulled the covers over them. He wrapped his arms around her, drawing her against his chest, one of his wings resting over her.

She snuggled against him, stroking his hair as he tucked himself firmly around her, resting his head against her shoulder, softly kissing the bite mark he had given her earlier. She was entirely content and completely spent – both of them were.

“Azriel, I love you,” she murmured, closing her eyes as he gently stroked her side, soothing her. “That was perfect.”

“Mmm, I love you too,” he mumbled, sounding half asleep, a quiet chuckle escaping him. “And I love when you let me fuck you like that.”

“It’s kind of fun,” she giggled, massaging his back with soothing circles. She loved this; the intimacy of being wrapped around each other after making love or fucking as they just had. It was perhaps her favorite part of being with him in bed.

“Only kind of fun,” he whined, pinching her side playfully. “I thought it was a lot better than that, but if you say so.”

“Okay, fine,” she conceded, laughing at his teasing. “It was incredible. Is that better?”

“Hmm, much better,” he rumbled, leaning up to smile at her, his handsome face sleepy and content. “You were absolutely perfect, love.”

She grinned, pulling him down to kiss him sweetly. She didn’t need to say anything for him to know how she was feeling; she was just as satisfied as he was. When they pulled apart, he lazily smiled at her before dropping his head back down, tucking her firmly against him.

His breathing slowed, the hand that was stroking her side slowly coming to rest on her hip, telling her he had fallen asleep. She held him, content to be in her mate’s arms as she let herself drift off with him, falling into a peaceful slumber.

Azriel and Gwyn finally have a much needed conversation after an accidental encounter at a party.

Read on AO3

Azriel x Gwyn

Warnings: Angst

Word Count: 2,480

Masterlist

Gwyn pulled out of Azriel’s arms the second he winnowed them home, dashing up the stairs toward their bedroom before he could say a word. He ran after her, taking the stairs two at a time, reaching their bedroom door in time to have it slammed in his face.

He didn’t pause before pushing open the door, striding after her as she slammed the door to their bathing room. He tried the knob, but she had locked it, of course. He leaned his head against the doorframe and let out a deep groan of frustration, anger with himself bubbling to the surface.

“Gwyneth,” he called through the door, knowing she likely wouldn’t answer but needing to try anyway. How could he have been so stupid? “Gwyneth, open the door. Please. Just talk to me. Gwyn. Please.”

He waited several minutes, but she stubbornly remained silent. He groaned, then pushed off the doorframe, running his hands through his hair as he walked to their bed and sat down. He propped his elbows on his knees and buried his face in his hands, tired and frustrated.

Of all the females who could have been at Helion’s party tonight, it had to be the one that Azriel regretted having sex with the most. She had been a drunken mistake more than two centuries ago, a random female who happened to be at the party he and Cassian had attended all those years ago. Later he had learned that the female in question frequented parties where she thought powerful males would be, attempting to snag one of them by offering her body first and her hand in marriage later.

She was an awful person, and he couldn’t stand her, but, of course, she had been there tonight. And, of course, she had latched onto Gwyn the moment he had walked away for fresh drinks. She had nursed a grudge against him ever since he had not only refused to see her again after their encounter, but then refused to set her up with Cassian. The moment he had realized how conniving she was, he had regretted sleeping with her and had wanted nothing to do with her, and he was now being proven exactly why he had done that.

He lifted his head when he finally heard the bathing room door open to reveal Gwyn, clad in one of his sweaters, hair loose around her shoulders. She looked less angry than she had when they had left the party, but now her face was full of sadness and a familiar insecurity that he hated whenever he noticed her sinking back into it. Fuck, he needed to fix this.

“Gwyn, honey, can we talk?” He hesitantly asked, not daring to move toward her. “I’m sorry. I’m so fucking sorry.”

“Azriel, I’m not angry with you,” she told him, slowly moving to sit on the bed next to him. She crawled onto the mattress and crossed her legs, causing the sweater she wore to bunch up around her waist. Normally he would have had his hands on her bare thighs in seconds, but he hesitated, not wanting to see her push him away.

“Gwyn, I’m sorry,” he apologized again, angling his body toward her. He loved her so much, and he hated that she was upset because of him. “I didn’t mean for that to happen. I didn’t know she would be there.”

“I know, it’s just…” she trailed off, avoiding his gaze as she toyed with the duvet underneath her. He waited for her to go on, desperately wanting to make things right. “I know you’ve had sex with other people, I’ve known that for as long as we’ve been together, and I’ve never minded. But…hearing her talk about it as if…as if being with her was the best sex you’ve ever had…it made me feel awful, Az.”

He closed his eyes for a moment, needing to calm himself. When he opened his eyes, he carefully put his hands on her thighs, pulling her closer to him like he normally would. She didn’t argue, allowing him to bring her legs over his so she was half on his lap, his arms wrapping around her waist.

“Gwyn, honey, I’m sorry she made you feel that way,” he quietly said, holding her gaze even though he wanted to look away in shame. “I’m sorry that I made you feel that way. I know I can’t erase the fact that I slept with that female, but I promise you that it meant nothing to me. I barely even remember the actual sex because all I can think of is how horrible she is. It definitely wasn’t the best sex I’ve ever had though.”

“What do you mean she’s horrible?” Gwyn whispered, her voice achingly soft, her bottom lip trembling slightly. He brushed back a lock of her hair, gently cupping her cheek before explaining.

He told her everything about the female at the party. How he had been drunk when he had sex with her. How she was manipulative and power hungry. How she was known for doing to other females exactly what she had done to Gwyn tonight. And how she held a grudge against Azriel.

Azriel still felt horrible that Gwyn had gotten cornered tonight, but at least she understood everything now. It was a start. Now he could work on getting her smiling again.

“So, she hates you because you wouldn’t set her up with Cassian?” Gwyn asked, her face less sad than it had been. He silently thanked the gods; he was on the right track. Honesty had always been the best policy with Gwyn, and tonight was no exception.

“More or less, yes,” Azriel affirmed, slipping his hands underneath Gwyn’s sweater to stroke her sides. She allowed the movement, gently resting her hands on his shoulders. “She has a habit of trying to make other females feel like they can’t satisfy their partners as well as she can. Which is just complete and utter bullshit.”

Gwyn let out a small laugh, a smile finally teasing her lips. “So, she’s basically the antithesis to everything the Valkyrie stand for then?”

“Yeah, pretty much,” he agreed, softly chuckling before turning serious again. “But that doesn’t change how sorry I am that you even had to deal with this tonight. If I had realized she was there, I never would have left you, even for a minute.”

“Azriel, it’s okay,” she replied, playing with the hair at the nape of his neck. “You didn’t know she was there. It’s not your fault. I just…I wish I would have known who she was before she started talking to me. At least then, I don’t know, I could have handled the conversation better rather than shutting down like I did.”

He hung his head, staring resolutely at the carpet while she ran her fingers through his hair. This was never a conversation he had wanted to have with her. No one before Gwyn mattered, so he had never wanted to relive his past sexual encounters. But he could see that she needed him to talk about this, to help her see that what was in the past has stayed in the past.

“Gwyn, I can’t take back my past, and I hate that, but I will answer whatever questions you have so that this never happens again,” he whispered, finally lifting his head to meet her gaze. The words tasted like ash on his tongue, but he knew his mate well enough to know that she needed this. She needed to know that she was the only one who mattered.

Her nose scrunched as she mulled over his offer. “Will you tell me about all your past sexual partners? We’ve discussed some of them before, but I want to know about all of them. Please.”

“If you want me to, then yes,” he promised, mentally preparing himself for the long conversation ahead. “But I will only do this on one condition.”

She raised an eyebrow in question, silently urging him to go on.

“Gwyn, I will only tell you about this if you promise to tell me if it starts to make you feel insecure. I won’t talk about this otherwise. I don’t want you to feel that way ever again.”

“Okay, I can do that,” she agreed with a nod, running her thumb along the curve of his jaw. He let out a deep sigh, then kicked off his boots before pulling her farther onto the bed. He nestled against the headrest, dragging Gwyn into his lap as he did so. When they were both comfortable, he finally spoke.

He started from the beginning, reminding her of the female he had first had sex with who they had discussed previously, then continuing through the rest of his many sexual encounters. There were some he could barely remember, but he explained everything to Gwyn as best as he could, holding her tightly the entire time. She asked the occasional question here and there, but otherwise remained silent, her face calm but serious.

When he finally finished speaking, his heart was hammering in his chest, his hair ruffled beyond help from all the times he had run his fingers through it. But Gwyn was still watching him, silently perched on his lap just like when he had started.

“That’s it. That’s everything,” he mumbled, toying with the hem of the sweater she wore. “I’m sorry.”

“For what?” Gwyn questioned, wiggling until she was straddling him, her arms around his neck so he was forced to look at her. “For not waiting to have sex until you met me. For telling me exactly what I asked you to. Az, there’s nothing to apologize for. It’s okay.”

He let out a huff, running a hand across his face. “I just hate the idea that my past might make you doubt me. Doubt us.”

“I don’t doubt you, or us,” she argued, moving her hands down to his chest, her fingers pulling at the buttons on his shirt lightly. “I don’t have an issue with anything you said. I knew you had a past, and I would never hold that against you. I’m not bothered by any of that. I just…tonight brought back so many old fears. It made me worry that maybe…maybe I don’t satisfy you as well as others have.”

By the time she had finished speaking, her voice was barely above a whisper, a flush coloring her cheeks. He pulled her against him, cradling her face with his hands. His jaw was working furiously, a cold rage filling him. He hated that anyone would make her feel like this.

“Gwyneth, listen to me very carefully,” he instructed, eyes blazing. “I love you, and I love being with you. You are the only female I want. No one else compares to you. And don’t think for one second that I am merely telling you that to make you feel better. Because I mean it. There is nothing that satisfies me more than being with you.”

She gave him a small smile, her body relaxing against him. “Not even beating me at chess?”

He let out a deep rumble, then kissed her jaw, mumbling against her skin. “Not even beating you at chess, sweetheart.”

He felt her thighs clench around him at the use of that particular pet name, the one he reserved only for when they were engaged in very specific activities. He chuckled, pushing her sweater down so he could kiss his way down to her shoulder.

“Are you just trying to distract me now?” She interrogated him breathlessly, her hands fisted in his shirt. He brought his head back up to look at her, flashing her a crooked grin.

“That depends.”

“On what?”

“If it’s working or not.”

She rolled her eyes dramatically, shoving at his chest in mock annoyance. He laughed, flipping her onto her back in one swift motion, earning a squeal from her as he did so. He pinned her below him, reaching down to bring one of her legs up to him, stroking her thigh as he hovered above her.

“Distraction or not, the fact remains, I love you and I love being with you,” he stated, leaning down to pepper her face with kisses. She giggled, wrapping her arms around his neck. “There is no other female I would rather have in my bed. In my arms. In my life.”

“I know,” she promised, finally giving him the smile he had been hoping for. “But thank you for reminding me anyway. And thank you for being honest with me. As difficult as it is to discuss these things, it helped. Now I know I won’t ever be caught off guard. Thank you, Az.”

“Of course, love,” he replied, holding himself above her so he could study her face. “You know you can always ask me anything. I just never want you to doubt us, or yourself. I love you.”

She smiled again, leaning up to kiss him softly. “I love you too.”

He kissed her again, letting his lips linger this time. “Before I go back to distracting you, there’s one last thing you should know.”

“What’s that?” She hummed, playing his game. Good, she was happy again. That was all he ever wanted: his mate, happy and safe in his arms.

“If another female ever makes you feel insecure about our sex life, I want you to remember this,” he began, cradling her face in his hands once more. “You are the only female who can get me hard in a matter of seconds. Rest assured that I am verysatisfied.”

She grinned, then burst into giggles, her laughter turning to squeals when he started tickling her, their bodies tangled together on the bed. When he finally relented, collapsing half on top of her, both of them breathless from laughing, she softly cupped his cheek.

“I think I can remember that, Az,” she promised, stroking his face with her thumb. “As long as you remember how much I love you.”

“I can do that,” he assured her, pushing up on his elbows so he was hovering above her again. “But for now, why don’t I show you just how satisfied I am?”

She bit her lip, her eyes darting between them to the bulge in his pants before meeting his gaze, a devious smile forming on her lips. She tangled her hands in his hair, pulling him down closer. He willingly leaned in, his body already warming just at the thought of having her.

“I think that’s a good idea,” she agreed, her eyes blazing with desire. He took one more long look at her, then crashed his lips into hers, sinking into the feeling of being with her. Of being with the only female who had ever held his heart.

Gwyn and Nesta help Emerie prepare for a special date with Mor.

Read on AO3

Gwyn & Nesta & Emerie Friendship

Warnings: Fluff

Word Count: 1,753

Masterlist

“I agree with Nesta,” Gwyn eagerly nodded, smiling at Emerie in the mirror in Nesta’s bedroom. “You should wear the suit. You look incredible.”

“This color looks amazing with your skin tone,” Nesta affirmed, straightening the collar of Emerie’s jacket. “You simply have to go with this outfit.”

The three of them were huddled in Nesta’s bathing room, clothes and makeup strewn everywhere. They had been helping Emerie get ready for a special date with Mor tonight, Gwyn and Nesta eagerly working together to make sure Emerie looked positively stunning. And they had certainly done their job well.

Emerie was clad in a dark green, velvet suit with a lacy black camisole underneath. The jewel toned ensemble brought out her dark eyes, and the gold shoes created a striking contrast with the rest of the outfit. The look was completed with a delicate gold necklace, her hair pulled back in a sleek chignon to showcase her striking features. She looked exquisite.

“Mor is going to be floored,” Gwyn said, brimming with glee. She was beyond thrilled for her friend. “She’s going to be speechless.”

“Let’s hope not,” Emerie remarked, worry lines creasing her forehead. Nesta affectionately smoothed them out, patting Emerie on the cheek lightly. “I need her to say at least one word tonight.”

“And she will say it,” Nesta assured Emerie, squeezing her hand softly. Gwyn leaned her head on Emerie’s shoulder, silently trying to calm her lovely friend’s nerves; Emerie had been a nervous wreck all day.

“But what if she doesn’t?” Emerie whispered, looking to Nesta and Gwyn for comfort. “What if she says no? Or nothing at all?”

“You know that’s not going to happen,” Gwyn soothed her, wrapping her arms delicately around Emerie’s waist to avoid wrinkling her suit. “You love each other. She’s going to say yes.”

“Gwyn’s right,” Nesta nodded, checking Emerie’s makeup one last time. “You have nothing to be worried about. You should be excited for tonight.”

Emerie gave them a hesitant smile, leaning into Gwyn for comfort. The two of them stood like that while Nesta ensured Emerie’s outfit was absolutely perfect, not a button out of place. When Nesta was satisfied, she ushered them into the main bedroom, stopping by the door before they let Emerie leave for her date.

Gwyn took Nesta’s hand in hers, grabbing Emerie’s as well. Emerie took Nesta’s free hand, creating a small circle, tying them all together. They smiled at each other, excited for what tonight meant. They would truly be sisters soon, bound together in more ways than one.

“Well, this is it,” Emerie breathed, looking between them. Gwyn watched her swallow, Emerie’s hand trembling in hers. “Nesta, Gwyn…I’m scared.”

Nesta and Gwyn looked at each other, then quickly wrapped Emerie in a tight hug, assuring their friend that they were there. There was nothing to worry about. Nothing at all. They both knew that; they just needed to convince Emerie of it.

“Emerie, you have nothing to be scared of,” Nesta consoled Emerie. “Everything is going to be perfect. We’ve helped you with all the preparations. Now, all you need to do is go meet Mor for your date and ask one simple question.”

“Nesta is right,” Gwyn agreed, rubbing Emerie’s back in soothing motions. “You’re ready. It’s going to be just fine. And tomorrow, we can start planning a fabulous wedding.”

“Can we wait a few days to start planning?” Emerie laughed, finally smiling, joy radiating from her face. “I’m going to need a few days to adjust if everything goes well.”

“Itwill go well,” Gwyn replied, smiling as Nesta nodded eagerly. “We’ll be here with a bottle of champagne to celebrate.”

“Emerie, we’re here for you,” Nesta promised, rubbing Emerie’s arm. “No matter what happens. We are your sisters. This will just make it more official.”

“You promise?” Emerie pressed, squeezing both of their hands. “No matter what happens?”

“We promise,” Nesta and Gwyn said in unison, embracing Emerie one more time before pushing her through the door, escorting her all the way to the door to the training ring where she was supposed to meet Mor.

Nesta and Gwyn gave Emerie a kiss on either of her cheeks, squeezing her hands before ushering her through the door, sending her on her way to her date. It was going to be perfect; Gwyn was sure of it.

“Well, now that Emerie is gone, should we go find our handsome mates?” Nesta asked, wrapping an arm around Gwyn’s waist. “Or should we go find food?”

“Hmm, food,” Gwyn giggled, twining her arm around Nesta, the two of them heading for the dining room arm in arm. “The boys will find us there.”

Nesta laughed and steered them down the hall, the two of them full of joy and pride for their friend, their sister. They pushed open the doors to the dining room to find Cassian and Azriel walking in from the balcony. Nesta and Gwyn smiled but their respective partners suddenly had identical looks of guilt on their face.

“Nesta, Gwyn,” Cassian said, rubbing his neck while he raised his eyebrows at Azriel. Azriel seemed to take the motion as some silent cue, immediately striding to Gwyn with a broad grin on his face.

Gwyn quirked an eyebrow but allowed him to take her in his arms, bringing her in for a deep kiss. There was a time when she would have blushed that Cassian and Nesta were present, but now she let herself sink into the kiss, savoring his sweet taste. He moved to pull away, but she tugged him back in, exploring his mouth thoroughly.

When she finally released him, he looked slightly dazed. Cassian chuckled behind them, holding Nesta tightly. Gwyn looked at Azriel quizzically, then over to Cassian before finally realizing why Azriel’s kiss seemed different.

“Where have you two been?” She asked, barely noticing Azriel still staring at her in stunned silence. Cassian blanched, avoiding Nesta’s gaze when Nesta turned to her mate in question.

“Umm, what do you mean?” Azriel choked out, pulling her against him again. She put her hands on his chest, not allowing him to distract her. They were hiding something, and she was going to find out what it was.

“Where have you been?” She asked again, raising an eyebrow at Azriel in challenge. “You taste like strawberries. Chocolate covered strawberries. You only ever eat those from one place.”

She had noticed the extra sweet flavor on his tongue when he had kissed her, the familiar taste flooding her with memories of the many, many times Azriel had taken her to his favorite restaurant. The same restaurant that Emerie and Mor were supposed to go to tonight.

“I…I don’t know what you’re talking about,” Azriel insisted, looking at Cassian with wide eyes. Gwyn watched him, seeing right through their weak attempts at concealing their secret.

“Azriel, I know that taste,” she pressed, forcing him to look at her again by tugging on his collar. “Why were you eating chocolate covered strawberries?”

“I told you she’d notice,” Cassian groaned, shoulders sagging in defeat as Nesta stared him down. Nesta didn’t need to use words to get her point across; Cassian could either reveal the secret or sleep on the sofa. “We were helping Mor with something for Emerie.”

“It was supposed to be a surprise,” Azriel confirmed, running his hand through his hair. “Mor wanted to keep it a secret.”

Nesta and Gwyn looked at each other, understanding slowly sinking in. They stared for a moment, the two males beside them growing worried. But then they broke into laughter, the two of them giggling uncontrollably.

Azriel looked between them in confusion, not understanding the joke. Gwyn leaned her head against her mate, trying to calm herself enough to explain.

“What is so funny?” Cassian asked, exasperation coloring his tone as he held onto a giggling Nesta. “Where have you two been?”

“We’ve been…we’ve been helping Emerie,” Gwyn got out between breaths, her face radiating happiness. “She has a surprise for Mor tonight.”

“Wait, what do you mean?” Azriel inquired. “What kind of surprise?”

“From the sounds of it, it’s a very similar surprise to what Mor has planned,” Nesta commented, leaning against Cassian. “What kind of surprise did you help Mor with?”

Cassian and Azriel looked at each other, seeming to silently weigh whether they should tell their mates or not. After a minute, they chose in favor of telling the two females.

“Mor is proposing,” Cassian confessed, a slight frown on his face. “We weren’t supposed to tell you. Has Emerie already left? Please don’t tell her if she’s still here.”

“Emerie is gone,” Gwyn consoled him, hugging Azriel reassuringly. “She won’t find out until Mor asks her.”

“Well, that depends,” Nesta vaguely noted, a knowing smirk on her lips. Gwyn bit back a laugh at the two males’ confused expressions.

“On what?” Azriel asked, him and Cassian still not catching on to the joke.

“On who proposes first,” Gwyn explained, smiling broadly. “Emerie is planning to propose tonight as well.”

Cassian and Azriel stared in shock, jaws gaping as they took in Gwyn’s words. Gwyn and Nesta only smiled wider, unable to contain their joy and excitement. After a moment, the two males seemed to recover, quickly matching their mates’ happy grins with ones of their own.

“I think this calls for champagne,” Cassian laughed, a look of amazement on his face. “A lot of champagne.”

“I couldn’t have said it better,” Azriel chuckled, pulling Gwyn onto his lap as he sunk into a chair. Gwyn wrapped her arms around his neck, peppering his face with kisses as Cassian and Nesta disappeared to the wine cellar.

“Are you happy?” She asked him, studying his smiling face.

“Yes,” he nodded, cupping her cheek gently. “I’m thrilled that Emerie and Mor are finally going to get married. It’s about time.”

“I agree,” Gwyn laughed, pure elation coursing through her. “I’m excited Emerie will officially be my sister.”

“Me too,” Azriel nodded, pulling her closer to kiss her along her jaw, working his way down her neck. “Gwyn?”

“Hmm?”

“I love you.”

“I love you too, Azriel,” she said with a smile, leaning in to capture his mouth with hers. He instantly responded, moving his lips with hers and pouring his love into the kiss. She melted against him, lost in his touch. Her two friends were about to be engaged, and Azriel was kissing her. Nothing could make this night better.