It really was a bizarre place, and given the chance, I would’ve spent days combing through every last square inch.

I couldn’t have taken a guess at how long we were in there, but with only a few shelves left to browse, I suddenly became aware of the unfaltering shadow blanketing mine on the floor. I peered over my shoulder at Cair, who was looming barely one step behind, not looking at anything except me.

Guilt welled in my belly. “Are… are you bored?”

He reeled back, seemingly offended that I’d even suggest such a thing. “Of course not! How could I be bored watching my mate find such joy in simple trinkets?”

From anyone else, that would have probably landed as an insult, but Cair did seem genuinely smitten with my behavior. I turned back to face the rack of crystals I’d been examining, hiding my blush. “That may be, but isn’t there anything you want to look at? Don’t you need anything?”

I caught his shrug from the corner of my eye. “Wing moisturizer wouldn’t go amiss, especially now that they are exposed to the elements more often—they need the extra care. But I am in no hurry. I am content to wait until your curiosity has been sated.”

“You’ll be waiting a while,” I said with a slight snort. “Why don’t you go and grab what you need, and I’ll finish up looking here?”

Cair hesitated—unsure about leaving me alone, no doubt—but having him hovering over my every step made me feel rushed, even if it wasn’t his intention. He was protective, and I loved him for it, but a few minutes to browse alone would also be welcome.

“I don’t⁠—”

“I’ll be fine,” I cut in, twisting around to place my hands on his chest. “I promise to stay in the shop until you come back. I won’t wander.”

He studied me, his jaw clenching and unclenching. It took a pleasing look and an eyelash flutter before he finally relented. “Alright.” He sighed, though it had an amused edge to it. “There was a stall not far from here that sold what I need. I’ll be very quick.”

“I’ll be here,” I assured him again. “Take as long as you need.” He seemed to read between the lines as he smiled knowingly and, without a hint of offense, kissed my forehead before striding out of the shop, leaving me to my own devices. I was under no illusions that he wouldn’t speed through his errand despite my encouragement. He’d be out there guarding the shop by the time I was done, and for all that I appreciated the space, I wouldn’t want it any other way.