“The flowers aren’t from Valora. They grow in a completely different world called Earth.”

“The human realm,” I say, and she nods.

“We have someone who travels by portal just to get it.” She lowers her voice to a conspiratorial whisper. “But guzzle as much as you can tonight. The supply is very low.”

I haven’t known Tehya long, but I already like her.

I take a sip, and a sound of satisfaction comes from my throat after I swallow. “This is much sweeter than the version I’m used to.”

She smiles proudly. “Our winery is amazing. I’d love to show you sometime.”

“That would be fun.” Feeling at ease with Tehya, I gaze outside the windows lining the walls. The night sky is lit with so many stars and one of the crescent moons is visible over what looks like a garden in the distance. “I love how light the décor is here, despite the darkness outside.” I wave a hand at the white walls and floors. “Dark interior colors are popular in the Day Realm. It helps to give our eyes a break from the constant light.”

Nodding, Tehya beams. “The marble pillars in here were my idea. They’re mined from the mountains in the Dream Realm. If you look closely, you’ll see stardust crystalized in the design.”

“They’re beautiful,” I reply honestly, going back to drinking my beverage.

There’s a moment of silence between us as we watch people dance. It’s a bit awkward, but I’m too overwhelmed by my beautiful surroundings to think of something clever or funny to say.

Fortunately, Tehya continues the conversation. “You’re probably wondering why Silas and I don’t have children yet.” There’s a hint of sadness and, if I’m not mistaken, shame in her words. “We’d hoped it would happen by now. It was probably silly for me to expect it right away.”

The fact that she feels the need to explain herself breaks my heart. Fertility is a sensitive subject.

Reaching out, I touch her wrist in a comforting gesture. “It’ll happen. You’re fated. I’ve rarely heard of a destined pair not being able to conceive.”

“Thank you.” Heaving out a sigh, it’s almost as if she’s been dying to confide in someone about that, and now she feels better.

“Any time you want to talk, I’m here.”

“I’ll take you up on that.” She smiles. “Silas was wrong about you. My mate is a brute at times, but he means well.” Affection is evident in her tone. “He’s naturally skeptical and he can hold a grudge like no other. I apologize on his behalf if he wasn’t welcoming to you.”

“The tension between our kingdoms has been high,” I input diplomatically. “It’s natural for him to be suspicious of my motives.”