Nesta

The Adriata Palace

The Summer Court

"Hello, Sweetheart" Cassian whispered into her ear.

Nesta froze at the sound of his voice. Cassian. It was Cassian. Her body went limp as relief washed over her. He shifted position, releasing her entirely as he backed away to give her space. Nesta placed her still shaking hands at her side and pushed off the damp ground, carefully flipping around into a sitting position. He knelt down a few feet away, half hidden in the shadows. Nesta peered up at his handsomely rugged face. A few locks of hair had escaped the leather tie at the nape of his neck, falling around his face and collar. She felt a ridiculous urge to push back the curls and tuck them behind his ear.

"Did I catch you at a bad time?" he asked conversationally, the side of his mouth pulling up slightly.

Nesta narrowed her eyes at him. He thought this was funny? She was escaping prison and he thought this was a joke? Annoyance washed over her. She ignored her better judgement and punched his shoulder, wincing as her fist made contact with the hard Illyrian leathers.

"Ow." She muttered darkly as she waved her wounded hand, trying to distract from its sting.

His generous lips curled into a grin as one of the wayward curls fell over his brow, obscuring his left eye. A long-buried sensation fluttered in her stomach. Nesta had almost forgotten the maddening reactions he could pull from her. For the sake of her pride she decided to pretend like the last five seconds didn't happen. She did her best to ignore the swirling butterflies in her stomach and threw him a glare for good measure.

"Yes, actually, this is a bad time." she told him tartly as she stood up, "I was trying to sneak out of here undetected, in case you're too dim to notice."

Much to her consternation Cassian simply crossed his legs at the ankle as if completely at ease, the picture of relaxed arrogance. He plucked a flower off of a neighbouring plant and brought it close to his face for closer examination, acting as if they had all the time in the world. Nesta resisted the urge to kick him, mainly because she was wearing soft leather flats and would probably end up hurting herself.

"I could see that." He deigned to answer. "Tell me Sweetheart, where exactly you were planning to go? Maybe you failed to realize it but you were heading towards the center of the castle, not away from it."

Oh. Cassian had pointed out the one vital detail that failed to dawn on her. She had been heading towards the center of the courtyard where a large water fountain – and her freedom – lay. He didn't know about her ability to shift locations through a body of water and was in her best interest to hide that particular secret. Nesta racked her brain in an effort to find a sufficient excuse, but everything fell short.

In the meantime he had supposedly relaxed his fill, because Cassian stood up and brushed dirt and grass from his leathers. Because, apparently, his appearance was their biggest priority. This whole day has really gone off the rails , she thought ruefully. Cassian, apparently clean enough to meet his standards, focused his attention back on Nesta.

"What was your plan to get out of here, anyway? I gave you a head start by taking the lock off your window. Your escape was quite the show, by the way. Thanks for that little bit of entertainment."

"Not everyone comes equipped with a pair of wings, you know." She snapped.

Cassian barked out a laugh which only irritated her further. She was struggling to remember why she had ever missed the Illyrian in the first place.

"True." He agreed a little too shrewdly for her liking. "I think your whole escape plan would have gone off much easier if it relied on flight. In fact, I think it's safe to say it's the only way you're getting out of here."

Nesta froze. She didn't like the way he was looking at her like he knew something she didn't. He was acting like the cat that caught the canary. That wasn't a good sign when it came to Cassian.

"What are you neglecting to tell me?" She asked through clenched teeth.

"In about, oh, four minutes from now, a squadron of Royal Guards are coming out on patrol. And I'm really looking forward to watching you squirm your way out of that."

Fuck . That is not good. This is so not good. If Cassian's timing was correct then she was running out of options. It was becoming exceptionally clear; Nesta wasn't escaping the palace without him. She had played right into his hands.

"You're bluffing." She hazarded in an attempt to bide herself extra time.

There must be another option. Nesta wouldn't leave with Cassian, not without a fight. The distant sound of an opening gate was the only response. She spun around and attempted to pinpoint the direction it came from. Cassian stepped closer, head tilted in mock despair. She was caught in his trap and he knew it.

"Looks like they're early." He commented nonchalantly. "Whatever shall we do?"

To the north side of the courtyard, off in the distance, she could vaguely detect a group of shadows moving towards them. It must be the Royal Guard. Nesta would be discovered in a matter of minutes. There was no way she would be able to reach the fountain before they spotted her. That was it. She was out of options. She would have to leave with Cassian and worry about everything else once they were safely away.

"Fine, you win." She seethed. "Let's get out of here."

Cassian was at her side in the space of a heartbeat. He folded an arm around her waist and pulled her close.

"Hold on, Sweetheart." He whispered in her ear, her only warning before Cassian launched them straight up into the night's sky.

Nesta gasped and flung her arms around him, clutching him tightly as she pressed her face into his neck. She could feel Cassian's laughter rumble deep inside his chest. I'd forgotten how much I hate flying.

Angry shouts rose up from somewhere far below. She risked a peek down, the guards no bigger than ants from her current elevation. Cassian had taken to the air mere seconds ago and they were already nearing the Palace's highest peak. Her stomach rolled and she was dangerously close to losing her lunch. Pride long forgotten, Nesta buried her face back into Cassian's chest in an attempt to block everything out. She felt him lower his mouth towards her.

"It's okay, Nes. I've got you."

She nodded to acknowledge that she heard him, afraid to do much else. Cassian seemed content with that and he flew in silence for the next several minutes. The wind howled in her ear and Nesta tried not to imagine what it would sound like if he accidentally dropped her from this height. Nesta began to shiver from either her fear or the freezing winds, and Cassian tucked her even tighter against him. Nesta was making sure she was properly dressed the time she agreed to have Cassian fly her anywhere. Her clothing did little to protect from the cutting winds.

Except there wouldn't be a next time. Nesta was never doing this again.

They gradually began to descend and she mustered the courage to pull away and look down at their surroundings. In the span of a few short minutes he had taken them outside of Adriata and over the bay, landing on one of the settlements that lined the opposite shore. He touched down gently and lowered her to the cobblestone street. Nesta held him tightly for another minute, not quite trusting her legs to keep upright. Cassian allowed her stay there, running a soothing hand down her arm. Eventually she felt him lightly examine the braid that ran down her back, fiddling it between his fingers, and she mustered the courage to draw back.

"Your braid is down. You used to wear it up," he made a motion around his head, "like a crown. It looks nice like this. More relaxed."

Oh. Nesta stepped away from him and self-consciously ran a hand down the back of her head, smoothing down any loose hairs that became disheveled during the flight. Cassian smiled at the action. It was the first genuinely warm smile he'd given her in, well, years. The fluttering sensation in her stomach was back.

"What?" she asked softly.

"I haven't properly seen you in three years. I'm just taking everything in."

"Oh." She said, trying and failing to bring a hint of sharpness back to her voice.

This wasn't good. She needed to stay angry, to be thoroughly frustrated with him. It was for the best if she needed to leave him behind. Could she walk away from him, now? When he had held her so gently and complimented her hair? And she would need to leave him behind, likely sooner than she was prepared for. Because every hour she spent out in Prythain was another hour the Mortal Queens were closer to finding her. She'd lay good odds the Queen's dogs had already started to hunt her.

It was one thing to be found tucked away under the watch of a High Lord, the vast amount of palace security should be enough to deter them, it was quite another to be found alone on the streets of Summer. And if the Queen's dogs would come for her if Nesta was found unprotected. She couldn't risk Cassian getting caught in the middle. He may be a powerful force in his own right, but he was only one male. A sweet, compassionate male - one would do anything to protect her - but it wouldn't be enough.

She took a moment to look at him, to really look at him, and was dismayed at what she found. The light had once shone in his eyes had dimmed, as if that the previous years weighed heavily on his soul. The locks of hair that escaped the customary tie at the back of his head seemed longer, wilder. His jaw sported a week's growth of beard. Nesta knew she was partially at fault, knew he dedicated too much time trying to track her down. The guilt twisted in her gut like a knife.

But she couldn't explain things to Cassian. Not when she knew in her bones that he'd do everything in his power to stay by her side, to keep her safe. It would put a target on his back and that wasn't something she was willing to risk, not when she had managed to survive the past three years without his help. Despite how much it hurt, despite how much she wanted him at her side, she would do it for him. Because if he was willing to risk everything to keep her safe, then it was only fair she did the same for him. So she'd make him believe she would remain by his side and try to forget the betrayal in his eyes when she eventually left him behind. But, for now, she'd give herself a moment to bask in his presence. Perhaps it would be enough to tide her over.

Nesta walked back up to his side and placed her hand upon his chest, just over his heart. Cassian seemed to stop breathing as she looked up into his eyes.

"Where do we go, now?" She asked softly.

It turned out that Cassian had a safe house on the outskirts of the town, less than two kilometers from their landing point. They walked the rest of the way under the cover of darkness, moonlight guiding their way home. The streets were virtually deserted due but Cassian insisted that she stay close to his side as he kept watch for possible threats. She rolled her eyes and huffed at him but obediently remained nearby. He was silent for the majority of their walk, not wanting to draw the attention of the few fae they passed on their journey.

Nesta supposed that it was safe to speak after ten minutes without spotting another living soul.

"Is it a coincidence that you just happen to have a secret safe house outside of Adriata?"

Cassian's warm hazel eyes flicked down to meet hers, his mouth pulling in for a tight grin. He went back to assessing their surroundings before answering.

"Would it be a safe house if it wasn't secret?" He asked rhetorically, voice thick with humour. "But to answer your question; no. It's not a coincidence that I have a hidden apartment in the Summer Court. I had a, well, let's call it a run-in a few years back. To make a long story short; their High Lord doesn't exactly welcome me here. I decided that discretion is the better part of valour when dealing with business inside the Summer Court. What Tarquin doesn't know won't hurt him. Or me"

Nesta paused to stare at him, a brow raised in question.

"You're here as a fugitive?"

"You're the only fugitive here, Sweetheart." He pointed out, gently bumping a hip against hers before returning to their stroll. "I'm just here in secret. No one other than Az knows I came to Adriata."

Azriel. It made perfect sense that the Spymaster was the connection to all of this. He was probably attending the summit as a member of the Night Court's entourage. Azriel probably wasted no time getting word to Cassian once he learned about Nesta's capture. She should have expected it, really. Maybe she was starting to get a little sloppy.

Still, a conversation involving Azriel was something that she wanted to avoid. The discussion would drift dangerously close to her sisters, and that was a topic to steer clear of entirely. It was hard enough living with the knowledge she would shortly betray Cassian. Involving her sisters would add another level of pain to the whole ordeal and she wanted to forget about everything, if only for a moment.

"So where are you taking your favouite fugitive?" Nesta asked, attempting to add a little levity to her voice.

Cassian merely raised a single finger to his lips, signaling that their destination was still his secret to keep. There was a dangerous glint in his eye as he looked down on her, something primal in his gaze. Right now Cassian wasn't contemplating her as if she was a problem to be solved. Rather, he gazed at Nesta like a man who looked appreciatively at a woman. She swallowed, mouth suddenly dry, and dragged her eyes away. Now is not the time for distractions.

She'd been drawn to Cassian since the first time he showed up at the door to her family's estate, all those years ago. His first words had been to issue her a challenge, and he'd never once backed down in all the time that followed. He was the only man – the only male – who wasn't afraid to verbally spar with Nesta but also relished the occasion. Cassian delighted in their banter, always eager to engage her in their war with words.

And, gods , could she ever forget their few stolen moments together? How they skirted the boundaries of propriety the rare times they found themselves alone, back when Nesta was more beholden to mortal standards of decorum. Her cheeks warmed when she recalled the time in the Mortal Lands when Cassian had hauled her against his, trailing kissed down her neck as her body sang for more.

The Hybern came and drowned her in that never-ending darkness, ripping Nesta out of her mortal body and forcing her into this strange new world. She was made , akin to the very creatures that used to feature in her nightmares. She was like Cassian, but she was also something more . Something worse. And when every other member of that damned Inner Circle instinctively shrank back from her, Cassian would push forward. Always engaging. He never feared her, never shied away. He was the one person that helped keep her sane in those first few unsettling weeks, when Feyre was lost to Spring and Elain was lost in her own mind. Cassian had been her lifeline to sanity, her link to salvation.

It was in the early days of Velaris that Nesta began to admit that their bond was more than simple physical attraction. It was deeper than that. Sometimes it almost seemed like a living thing, forever connecting them. Even now she could feel the connection hum between them, pulling her towards him. Whatever existed between them was so much more than physical. It was so. Much. More.

Regardless, she couldn't deny her attraction to Cassian. Not from the day he showed up in the Mortal Lands and threw away her preconceived notions of the fae. And she couldn't deny her attraction to him now. And, for the first time in years, she was alone with him. He was so close. Cassian was so, so close. She could reach out and touch him. Embrace him. Gods, Nesta remembered how right it felt to be held in his arms. Could she let it happen again, now that they were alone? Could she be with him, even if it was only for a little while?

"You're staring." His deep voice cut in, luring her away from her musings.

Nesta's cheeks flushed. Judging by the expression on his face he'd likely guessed the direction her thoughts had run off in. Did he even think about it? How they had the freedom to come together without the constant hovering of a sister, or a brother, or a friend? Considering the way his pupils dilated as he took her in, she thought it likely.

"Are we almost there?" She asked, if only for something to say. Cassian placed his arm on her lower back and led her the rest of the way.

Cassian's safe house was less than five minutes away in a small, low-rise building. He took her hand and led her down a small hallway towards the ground level apartment. The door to the residence was magically locked to Cassian and swung open after registering his presence. He stepped in and switched on the light, revealing a modest kitchen and seating area. A hallway jutted off to the left of the entrance, leading towards what she presumed to be a bathroom or bedroom.

"It's not much, but it's home." he told her wryly as he flipped open a kitchen cupboard, taking stock. The apartment was surprisingly warm, with rich tapestries on the walls and plush, velvety sofas in the sitting area. She suspected that she would sink right into the cushions the moment she sat down.

"It's lovely." Nesta told him truthfully. Any desire to live in more cosmopolitan dwellings had abated a long time ago.

Cassian looked up from the pantry and ran a critical eye over her, his eyes lingering on her décolletage for perhaps just a second too long. Nesta looked down and took in her outfit with fresh eyes. It was nothing scandalous by any stretch of the imagination but it was certainly dissimilar to her previous attire. It was a modified swimming costume of her own design. The fabric was the same used in traditional bathing costumes, while the cut was closer to a fitted pair of trousers and short sleeve shirt. It was nondescript while allowing for freedom of movement when shifting locations. Nesta had learned the hard way that a sodden gown can quickly become dangerous in the wrong circumstances.

"Are you cold? Can I get you something to wear? A cloak, perhaps?"

"Oh, yes. That would be great, actually." She told him as she rubbed her arms for warmth.

"I'll be right back." Cassian called over his shoulder as he disappeared down the hallway.

She took advantage of his momentary absence to snoop around his apartment. From the kitchen window she could make out the bay of Adriata, the moonlight dancing over dark waters. It was downhill, at least three kilometers away. It wasn't ideal for a quick escape. Still, Nesta hoped to delay that particular problem for a day or two. With any luck the Queens would give her a long reprieve before pulling her back to reality.

Cassian appeared after a moment, examining the thick cable knit sweater in his hands.

"Is this okay?" he asked and Nesta bit back a smile at the look of apprehension on his face. "It's all I can find. It's clean but it's made for an Illyrian. The back opening for the wings can be fastened, so that shouldn't be a problem. It's just you're a little… small"

Nesta laughed gently at that. She was definitely small compared to him, but then again, most were. She doubted the average soldier possessed half of Cassian's dedication to training. Still, she could spend the next five centuries lifting weights and she doubted she'd reach half his mass.

"It's fine, Cassian." She assured him and, Mother above, he practically preened at that.

Nesta took the heavy sweater from him and slid her arm through a sleeve, silently laughing when the cuff dangled several inches below her fingers. The garment hung more like a robe but she couldn't deny that it was incredibly comfortable.

Cassian wandered over to the seating area and took a seat on one of those cushy-looking sofas. Nesta trailed behind him, taking a quick sniff of the sweater while his back was turned. It smelled vaguely of Cassian, just as she thought. It was a woodsy scene; warm and opulent with an underlying hint of honey, all very much Cassian . She lightly dropped down beside him, tucking a leg underneath.

"Are you hungry?" He asked after a beat. "There isn't a lot of fresh food but the panty is stocked with dry goods. I can whip up something quickly."

Nesta bit her lip as she considered his offer. She was hungry, hadn't had time to eat since before her stunt in the palace, but she was starting to feel guilty for putting Cassian through so much trouble. She wanted to help ease his burden, if only for a moment. The very least she could do was offer to help.

"I can make you dinner," She told him as she started to rise, "in case there's something else you need to do."

"No!" He barked out.

His response threw Nesta so off guard that she froze in halfway into standing position. Cassian grimaced slightly and put a hand on her shoulder, gently pushing her back down on the sofa. He continued in a gentler tone.

"I don't mind, really. There aren't a lot of options at the moment but I can make a mean plate of pasta with available ingredients. You won't be able to tell the sauce came from a can."

With that he strode over to the kitchen. If Nesta took a movement to admire his ass, well, she was only human. Or whatever the fae-equivalent of that was. Her eyes returned to a more respectable level by the time he turned back around to face her, stockpot in hand. He added water, a little salt, and set it to boil. Nesta meandered over to keep him company while he worked.

"I don't suppose you feel like sharing the reason you were at the palace earlier?" He asked her in a casual tone, like he was asking about the weather.

Nesta apprehension came rushing back. One evening . Nesta wanted one evening to pretend that everything was normal, that she didn't have a sword hanging over her head. She assumed Cassian was on board; willing to ignore the conflict ahead of them, if only for a little while. He must have read the worry on her face as he stiffened and immediately dropped his casual stance.

"If you're not ready to talk about it yet, then that's fine. But we need to discuss it eventually." He took a breath, returning his gaze to the stove as he continued. "So much has happened these past few years, so much that I don't understand. I know you thought running was your only option but a lot of time has passed. Your sisters just want you home. I want you home."

Cassian's voice wavered slightly and something in her gut twisted at his admission. Of course she knew he wanted her home, but to hear him speak so plainly, with such need in his voice... Gods , it was taking everything in her not to fall into his arms and explain everything that happened since she first left Velaris.

He stirred the pot with a wooden spoon, lifting his eyes back to meet hers.

"You don't need to tell me anything tonight. We can just… pretend everything is fine. If that's what you need right now, then I'm willing to wait."

Nesta nodded her head, unable to meet his eyes. Mother above, what had she been thinking? There was no way she was walking away from Cassian unscathed. If she were to entertain a dalliance with him… Gods , she might as well give up now. He held too much power over her. He was a dangerous male and this was a dangerous game. A game that she wasn't willing to lose, not with so much at stake. So Nesta forced a smile on her face and met his gaze.

"Okay, I will tell you everything in the morning. But tonight is just for us." She told him in what she hoped was a passably breezy tone.

She walked over to a cabinet and began to root around for plates and cutlery, busywork to keep her attention off of the Illyrian. She told herself it was an act of service and not one of cowardice. Nesta snuck a glance at him as she maneuvered around the table to set the dishes. He was watching her with a considering expression, lips pressed in a grim line.

Nesta straightened and immediately dropped her affected mannerism.

"I mean it, Cassian. We'll talk more about it tomorrow. I just need a bit of time, that's all." She lied, heart twisting at the deception.

A muscle flexed in his jaw as he measured her words. Cassian nodded after a moment and went back to preparing their dinner. She watched as he lithely moved around the small space, grabbing a few spices to add to the marinara. The rich scent of the pasta sauce wafted over and her stomach let out an involuntary rumble. Cassian tossed her a quick smile and assured her that dinner was almost ready as he moved to drain the pasta. Some of her tension eased away. He'd believed her and relaxed his guard.

Nesta claimed a spot at the table and watched him work, admiring the lines of his battle scarred wings.

"It smells good." She told him, rising to help him bring the food over. Cassian waved her away and poured a generous portion onto both of their plates. She took a bite, closing her eyes in pleasure at the full-bodied sauce. Cassian didn't exaggerate when he promised her a good meal.

"This is shockingly delicious." She told him over a mouthful of food.

Cassian arched a brow at that.

"I don't know what the most surprising thing about today is, but a compliment from Nesta Archeron is definitely up there."

She bit back a smile, taking a sip of water to cover the gesture.

"I'll try to remember that." She told him in a mock-airy tone. "I'd hate to become too predictable."

Cassian dropped his fork to his plate and surveyed her with serious eyes.

"You're many things, Sweetheart, but predictable isn't one of them."

Her throat bobbed and she quickly looked away. Damn the Illyrian. He knew all her buttons and relished pushing everyone of them.

"Are we going to stay here for a few days?" She asked, changing the subject. Cassian was a sharp male. It'd be smart to throw off any lingering suspicion about her intentions.

"I guess that depends on what you're comfortable with. We can stay here until you're ready but I'm hoping you'll seriously consider coming back to Velaris." He paused before adding. "But I don't want to push you into anything. I'm just happy you've agreed to stay for a while."

Nesta dragged a forkful of pasta through the sauce and took a bite, hoping that he didn't notice her evading the last comment. She hated lying to him. Still, the longer she dragged this out the harder it will be for both of them. She swallowed and asked the question she'd wanted to avoid since arriving at his apartment.

"I wouldn't mind freshening up after dinner. Do you mind if I have a quick bath when we're done eating?"

His eyes slid over to Nesta, giving her an appraising look.

"You want to look pretty for me, Sweetheart?" he grinned when she choked on her pasta, continuing before she had a chance to lobby back a retort. "The bathroom is just down the hall. I can grab you a spare shirt to sleep in."

Nesta tried to ignore the sly look on his face. He was probably picturing her wearing one of his too-large shirts. Or maybe he was picturing her wearing nothing at all, considering the way he was eyeing her.

"Pervert." she hissed.

He threw his head back and laughed at that, a full on Cassian laugh. When she was growing up, before her dad squandered their wealth, the aristos would refrain from similar boisterous displays. They thought it uncouth. Cassian was so different from the boys of her youth. That fluttering was back in her stomach and she did her best to ignore it.

They quickly finished dinner. She surprised herself by eating the entire dish, equal in size to Cassian's portion. He was pleased with her appetite, probably thinking back to her weight loss during those dark days in Velaris. Nesta had gained it all back and then some, strengthening her muscles with near-daily swims. She may not have the mass of a hulking Illyrian but she'd work hard to regain her health. One shouldn't fault her on the odd occasion she took a moment to admire elongated muscles. Nesta worked hard for her healthy body.

She rose to clear the plates and Cassian brushed her off once again, claiming that she was his guest and therefore it was his duty to clean. After dropping their plates in the sink he gestured for her to follow him down the hall. Nesta did her best to quash her growing apprehension. He opened up a linen closet, pulling out a thick towel for her to use.

"The bathroom is on your left. There's a robe hanging on the back of the door, you're free to use it. I'll leave suitable sleepwear for you on the bed down the hall." He paused, giving her a soft smile. "And Sweetheart, I'll see you when you're finished."

"See you when I'm finished." She lied, giving him a tight smile in return. She watched Cassian disappear into the bedroom, trying to remember every line of his body as he left her view. Blinking back sudden tears, Nesta turned away and entered the bathroom.

And froze.

There was no bathtub. Why was there no bathtub? Nesta peaked behind the door, as if the architect had somehow managed to hide an Illyrian-sized tub in slim space between the wall and the door. Nothing. She looked back to the strange glass shelter built into the corner of the room. There was a soap dish on the side of the wall, so she assumed this was the tub. But she couldn't figure out how to fill it since the glass entrance didn't appear to have a waterproof seal.

"Oh, Nesta?" Cassian's muffled voice came through the bathroom door, "This apartment came with shower stall instead of a bathtub. You turn it on the usual way and water comes from the faucet in the ceiling. Let me know if you need help figuring it out."

Are you fucking kidding me? Nesta thought in a panic. She had never once come across a shower stall in all her life and now she finds one? Nesta inspected the stall before turning the tap. Sure enough, water sprayed out from the faucet like raindrops. Which was all fine and dandy, except Nesta couldn't shift through rain. She needed to be submerged in water in order to shift between locations, with the body of water acting as a doorway between the two. This was one of the first things she experimented with after leaving the Night Court. Nesta could be in the middle of a torrential downpour and her magic was useless unless she was immersed in water.

"You okay in there?"

"Um, just peachy." Nesta called back, trying to hide the panic in her voice. "It's an interesting invention. I may indulge myself a little while I'm here."

Cassian didn't have a rejoinder for that comment, thank the Mother, and she listened as his footsteps recede back towards the kitchen. Nesta leaned back against the glass stall as she weighted her options. He was willing to stay in the Summer Court for as long as she was comfortable, so she could delay her departure for a little while. But the Queen's lackies were likely hot on her trail. She had another day – two at most – before they came hunting for her. So, either way, her time in the Summer Court needed to come to an end.

Nesta drew back the window covers to gage her surroundings. The bathroom overlooked a private courtyard. The window was large enough that she could easily slip out. She could be outside and away from the building in under a minute if she decided to make a run for it. Cassian was busy cleaning up and thought Nesta was taking her time bathing. She'd probably have at least twenty minutes before checking on her, by then she would be halfway to the bay under the cover of darkness. The water pouring out of the faucet was also loud enough to disguise her movements. She returned to the bathroom door and pressed an ear against it, listening. She couldn't hear anything. Cassian wasn't hovering outside.

It was time.

She folded Cassian's sweater, placed it beside the sink, and silently crossed the room. Nesta gently slid the windowpane open, wincing as the unused joints squeaked in protest. She tossed a quick glance at the door, fearful that Cassian would come to investigate the sound. Nothing. Biting her lip, Nesta climbed out the window and dropped down into the grass. The layout of the building put the kitchen to her west so Nesta headed east, following the circumference of the building towards the front entrance.

She rounded the building and came across a latched gate, thankfully unlocked. It was preferable to avoid climbing fences when possible. With her heart in her throat, she opened the gate and peered into the tree-lined street. Empty. She slipped out, pulled the gate closed behind her, and then dashed towards the street. Adriata's Bay was three kilometers away but with a little luck she'd come across a fountain or pool on her way there and leave the Summer Court for good.

Nesta made it twenty feet before she sensed the figure behind her.

"Going somewhere, Nes?"

Cassian

Outside the Safe House

The Summer Court

"Running off without a goodbye? That wasn't very nice of you." Cassian growled.

Nesta, who'd frozen upon hearing his voice, glanced to her side as if contemplating making a run for it. He felt his expression turn murderous and gave a small shake of his head, warning her off of the idea. She wouldn't make it ten paces before he caught up to her. She dropped her shoulders slightly, probably arriving at the same conclusion.

"We can do this one of two ways." He drawled as he began to advance on her. "Option one: you come back with me to the apartment and stay, like a good girl. Option two: you make a run for it – like you were thinking about just now – and I throw you over my shoulder and fly like that all the way back to Velaris"

Rage washed over her hauntingly beautiful face, eyes flashing silver in the moonlight.

"You have no right to keep me here. You're treating me like a common criminal." She hissed.

Cassian laughed at that. A dark, humourless laugh.

"Oh, I don't? Have you forgotten about your burglary of Tamlin's home? Or the time you broke out of Tarquin's palace not three hours ago ? Not only do I have a right to contain you, I have an obligation to drag you back to my High Lord." He snapped angrily.

He had to calm down and take control of the situation. There was zero upside to continuing their argument on an unsecured street way, so Cassian played one card that he knew would faze her.

"How far did you think you'd get from me, anyway? The bay is almost two miles from here. Did you think you would make it that far before I found you?" He paused to let his words sink in, relishing the look of utter shock painted upon her face. "Oh, you didn't realize I figured out the secret to your little disappearing act? I've long since realized that you need water to winnow. Did you think it was a coincidence that this safe house was one of the rare places in Prythian to have a shower, not a bath?"

Her delicate throat bobbed as she swallowed. The rage that had first marked her face was slowly replaced by uncertainty. She'd thought she had played him like a fool. And, for a short time, she had. For a few soft moments he'd almost believed that Nesta was happy to see him. They'd fallen back into their old dynamic of light banter and flirty glances. When she looked up at him, eyes hooded with desire, he thought she'd return his feelings. He'd allow himself to believe that the old Nesta was back and that she was almost ready to come home.

And then, when he was preparing dinner, she'd looked right at him and told a bold-faced lie. Nesta simply batted her lashes and promised to spill her secrets, when every inch of her face revealed her plans to run away. She may have learned plenty of new skills during her time away but she would never be able to lie to him, not convincingly. So Cassian gave her enough rope to hang herself with, and Nesta ran at the first opportunity. Just like he knew she would.

So he was done giving her chances. If Nesta wanted him to stay away then he would respect that. If Lucian could learn to live without his mate then Cassian could certainly try. But then Nesta had gone and entangled herself with the matters of Prythain security, forcing his hand. Cassian wasn't sure to what extent she was entangled with the Mortal Queens, but he knew they wanted revenge. He also didn't think it was a coincidence that Nesta showed her face at the very same Summit held to tackle the growing problem of the Queens. Even if Nesta rejected him romantically Cassian wouldn't walk away knowing she was in danger.

So he would give himself one single day to get to the root of the problem. If he couldn't uncover anything – and if Nesta was unwilling to talk – he'd dump her off for Rhysand to deal with and wash his hands of the whole mess. But for one day he would try to reach Nesta. He vowed, all those years ago, that they would face their future together. He would never forgive himself if he didn't give it a try. Maybe that made him a fool, but he'd had to try.

"So, how is this going to play out?" He asked again, ignoring the pained look on her face. "Are you coming back inside? Or are we going for a little ride across Prythian?"

Nesta's face went ice cold. She threw back her shoulders and jutted out her chin, for all appearances the queen Cassian always privately thought her to be. She blazed past him, dipping her shoulder to avoid contact, and led the way back to the safe house. She paused uncertainty when she reached the doorway to the apartment. Cassian stormed by her, not breaking his pace as he grasped her bicep and pulled her along. He marched Nesta past the bathroom, where the shower still ran unattended, and led her into the bedroom. He stopped there and motioned for her to sit on the bed. A quizzical look graced her face but she obeyed, hands folded primly on her lap. Cassian clasped one of her delicate wrists as knelt down beside her, rummaging under the bed with his free hand.

"I need a bit of insurance that you're not going to run off in the middle of the night." Cassian explained as he blindly searched under the bed, grinning when his hand touched cold metal. "And now I'll sleep like a baby, knowing you're stuck here with me."

He pulled out the metal shackles with a flourish. Nesta jerked back but he kept a tight grip on her, holding her in place. He snapped a cuff on her wrist then stood and led her across the room. There was a metal peg bolted into the opposite wall, well away from the bed. He attached the shackle to the peg and secured her in place. There was a short length of chain that would allow Nesta enough room to sit or stand, but little else. He was glad of that foresight; Nesta looked like she was ready to strangle him in his sleep.

"You're a fucking pig ."

"Now is that any way for a Lady to speak?" He grinned at her, fully aware it would antagonize her further. "I'm going to take advantage of that shower. I would hate my piggish scent to disturb your sleep."

And with that, Cassian left Nesta to her rage.

He hovered outside the bedroom door for a few moments, pausing to listen for the sounds of an escape attempt. Judging from the curses streaming over the rattling of chains, Nesta wasn't going anywhere anytime soon.

Appeased with the knowledge that she was secure, Cassian stripped off his leathers and stepped into the shower, the thick steam helping to melt away his tension. He had her. After three long years, he actually had her . Gods, how many sleepless nights had been spent knowing she was in danger while he was on the sidelines, unable to help?

Feyre might have convinced herself that Nesta was merely off seeing the world but Cassian couldn't ignore Az's intel on the Queen's movements. His gut told him Nesta figured into the Queen's designs against Prythian, and none of it was good. Those human bitches blamed Nesta for blocking their chance at immortality and they had a nasty habit of sniffing around after Nesta. A blind male could see that staying close to the Summit was the right move. He'd almost kissed Azriel when he'd learn of Nesta's capture and subsequent imprisonment. Cassian wasn't chasing after leads for the first time in years, and it had paid off in spades.

He shut off the shower and towelled dry. Cassian ran a hand through his beard and decided to take time to shave. Nesta had left his sweater folder on the counter and he pushed it to the side, retrieving a shaving kit under the sink. He lathered up and took a moment to study his face. Mother's tits , he was looking rough these days. Too many sleepless nights, too many skipped meals as he ran himself ragged chasing after his mate. He sighed as he took the blade to the stubble. Those days were over now. Nesta was safely under his control. She wasn't going anywhere, not until they hashed a few things out.

But I should probably give her the night to calm down. He thought wryly as he tapped the blade against the sink, knocking off excess shaving cream. Nesta was pissed. He really shouldn't have gone out of his way to wind her up. It wasn't smart but it was hard not to lash out after the bite of Nesta's betrayal. Still, he had her now. He needed a moment to relish that fact.

Cassian slipped on a pair of low hanging sleep pants, grabbed the discarded sweater, and joined Nesta in the bedroom. She was sitting on the floor, head resting on her shackled arm. She gave him a once over, took in his bare chest, and froze.

"Don't worry, Sweetheart. Your virtue is safe with me." He assured Nesta as he tossed her the sweater. It landed beside her and she eyed it as if it were a dangerous animal. "I thought you would want that back, in case you get cold. If that doesn't work then I'm always willing to warm you up, but I'd rather get through the night with my balls still attached."

Nesta scowled at him but adjusted the sweater over her like a blanket. She shifted her posture in order to stare him down. Cassian flopped down on the bed and eyed her in return. He briefly considered offering her a pillow before deciding against it. She'd probably figure out a way to smother him with it.

"Do you plan to keep staring at me all night?" Nesta asked coolly.

"I've spent far too much time in less appealing company, so it's not a terrible suggestion." Cassian told her, trying to hide his grin. He failed, but it was the thought that counts. Nesta rolled her eyes at him.

"So what now?"

"Right now? We get some sleep. I've spent the day chasing after you and could use my beauty rest. Tomorrow is a busy day. You've been running for a long time, and I have questions that you will be answering."

Worry swept over her pretty face. Nesta broke her gaze away, her eyes tracked down to the sweater on her lap. She picked at a piece of lint on it, brows furrowed. It was clear that she wanted to avoid the subject entirely. Well, too bad. They were on the same side and it was time she remembered that.

"Go to sleep, Nesta." Cassian told her softly. "Everything else can wait until the morning."

Nesta didn't respond. Cassian sighed and leaned back against the pillows in an attempt to get comfortable. Eventually she stretched out on the floor and turned away from him, facing the wall. Cassian stayed there for hours, watching her sleep in the moonlight, and waited for morning to come.