Rhaegar returned long after night had settled over the city.
When he pushed open the door, he found Caelith seated by the window, lost in thought.
The silver glow of moonlight spilled across her figure, softening the delicate lines of her profile. She sat quietly, one hand resting against the carved wooden sill, her gaze fixed on the darkness beyond the courtyard walls.
He crossed the room without a word and wrapped his arms around her from behind. His familiar warmth enveloped her like a warm scarf.
"What are you thinking about?"
Caelith relaxed against his chest.
"Everything that happened today."
Rhaegar lowered his gaze to her face. "Grandmother summoned you again?"
She nodded.
For a moment, he fell silent. Then he asked quietly, "What did she say?"
Caelith repeated the Dowager Lady's words. Rhaegar listened without interruption. When she finished, the room remained quiet for some time.
At last, he spoke once more.
