The soft purr of the engine quieted as my car rolled to a stop in front of the palace gates. I barely had time to step out before Fergus, opened the door for me. His usual composed demeanor faltered just slightly, the ghost of a knowing smile tugging at his lips as he inclined his head.
I didn't need to ask why. I already knew.
The next moment, Aria came dashing down the palace steps, her blue hair catching the moonlight, her smile brighter than the stars above us. Before I could say a word, she launched herself into my arms, her tiny frame colliding with mine. I caught her easily, wrapping my arms around her as if it were the most natural thing in the world.
"Magnus!" she exclaimed, burying her face into my neck, her voice a mix of joy and reproach.
I chuckled softly, cradling her like she was my most precious treasure. And she was.
"You're late," she murmured, her words muffled against my skin.
