Chapter 27

I smile as I listen to Alekai speak to Uncle Elyse about the school's success, his soothing voice filled with excitement at the future prospect this trades school will bring to Symphrain.

“Yes, she’s right here.” He chuckles, holding out the phone to me, which I gladly accept.

“Hi, Uncle Elyse.” I greet him right away and lean into Alekai, who plants a kiss on top of my head.

“Lyra, congratulations. Arabess already told me Alekai’s plans, and I must say, you as Queen is an amazing idea.” I blush at his praise, looking at Alekai with a raised brow. He just smiles back, turning to look out the window while I return to the phone call.

“Thank you. I know it will be a lot of work, but I am up for the challenge.” Uncle Elyse chuckles at this.

“I also have word on Jaida and Aime. Jaida actually called me yesterday. She will be returning home within the week. Aime has actually been in the city, but that’s all I know.” My eyes widen at the news, and I quickly ask about their well-being, feeling relieved to hear my friends are healthy. Of course, like me, Jaida and Aime were sold as slaves, but knowing Jaida regained her freedom and will be home safe is news I have been waiting for. Unfortunately, not knowing more about Aime has my feelings conflicted with both happiness and sadness. I will be able to see Jaida soon, but Aime will be a different story.

“Will Jaida be attending the coronation?” I ask, going to reach for the necklace that normally hung around my neck to fiddle with, only to remember it is gone.

“I am not sure. Sorry, Lyra.” Uncle Elyse answers, a sigh escaping his lips.

“That’s fine. I am just happy she will be home safe.” Our conversation turns to one about the school, with Uncle Elyse asking me to meet before the coronation and come for a tour of the school after the coronation, to which I agree excitedly before hanging up. Passing the phone to Alekai, I yawn, my body exhausted from recent events.

“Why don’t you sleep?” Alekai whispers, pulling me onto his lap and resting my head on his shoulder, one hand cradling my head while playing with my hair, the other keeping me close. I yawn again, unable to respond before closing my eyes, sleep taking over quickly.

…

“Welcome home, Your –“

“Shhhh, Lyra is asleep. I think she’s been working too hard lately.” Alekai’s voice is a whisper, seeping into my dreams as he quiets whoever is greeting him. I open my eyes slightly, seeing the familiar halls of the Palace through my sleep-filled eyes.

“Kai?” I croak out, turning my face into his shoulder to block out the hallway lights.

“Don’t worry, Lyra, go back to sleep. I’ll wake you when food is ready.” His low voice soothes me, and I nod slightly, closing my eyes and breathing in the usual scent of roses and mint from the bathing set he always uses, the comforting scent lulling me gently to sleep. I feel my body lowering into a bed, Alekai’s scent mixing with my usual vanilla scent, letting me know I am safe and sound in our room.

“Sweet dreams, my Songbird.” Alekai whispers, kissing my forehead. I smile, feeling his hand run through my hair as sleep begins to take hold of me. Before once again slipping into dreamland, I feel something being placed around my neck, a comforting weight solidifying the sense of security I feel as I fall asleep again.