Technology wasn’t used here—no mobile phones or the like—and nothing that caused pollution or the unnecessary demolition of nature. Cars were a total no go, though since teleportation was a thing, there was no real need for them. It was baffling to think that I could have a hot bath in minutes, and switch on a lamp to read at night, but if I wanted to speak to Alex, I had to write a letter.

I had to admit, the transition was a little strange, but the fresher air in my lungs and the breathtaking landscapes were an acceptable compromise.

As I washed my hands, I glanced at myself in the mirror. My curls were sticking out in every direction, a result of Cair’s fingers running through them last night and how I wriggled in my sleep. There were also teeth and finger marks speckling my shoulders and chest, purple and raw. My belly heated at the memory of their sting, though I’d have to remember to cover up before heading downstairs. I’d been on the receiving end of too many knowing looks last time.

I left the bathroom and was making a beeline for my dressing robe when the bedroom door creaked open. I’d half expected one of the maids to come storming in to change the sheets or offer to bathe me—an offer I refused every time it was made—but instead, relief rushed through me as Cair’s gorgeous face came into view.

“You’re up,” he said as he entered the room, tray in hand, gently toeing the door closed behind him. He sounded shocked. Maybe even a little disappointed. “Forgive me, pet. I was ambushed in the corridor by one of my father’s chancellors. I had no intention of making you wake up alone.”

“It’s okay,” I reassured him, and with my plans foiled, I crawled back under the covers, robe forgotten. The smell of warm batter and sweet fruit compote filled my nose. I squirmed happily. “I assumed you’d been called away.”

He hummed and placed the tray on my lap. There were two plates piled high with pancakes, two glasses of iced tea with lemon, a bowl of freshly cut berries, and a big jug of syrup. It looked delicious, and I was eager to tuck in, but before I could lift my fork, Cair swooped in to kiss me hard, knocking me off balance.

My lips were all tingly by the time he withdrew.

“Good morning, my heart.”

“Morning.” I smiled, dazed, though when I looked down at the spread he’d brought, a pang of guilt made me falter. “I should make you breakfast. I feel selfish.”

“Nonsense,” he said as he lowered himself onto the bed beside me. “I enjoy doing this for you, and I am grateful that you indulge me.”