Valentin had tried to stop Amara from leaving the palace, but her decision was firm. She and Remus lived outside the palace, moving from place to place.
Despite her departure, Amara stayed in touch with him. However, each time Valentin mentioned returning to the palace, Amara would shut down.
"If you keep bringing that up, I don't want to meet you anymore," she threatened.
Amara had always kept her word. Fearful that she would cut off contact with him, Valentin refrained from mentioning it again.
Without his sister, Valentin felt empty and alone. He opened up to Maris, who used to be Amara's neighbor. Maris was welcoming and had been close to Amara.
Occasionally, Amara would invite Maris over for dinner. Despite his animosity towards Remus, the four of them shared countless meals together.
Slowly but surely, Valentin began to develop feelings for Maris.
