#the way she glares like she’s unimpressed has aelin question her words

[pergaminaa]

modern au is basically Aelin bullying Dorian through his kid until said kid was old enough to lowkey bully her in turn (unintentionally)

[seasonofthewicth]

A Groovy Kind of Love - Chapter 9

AN: a slightly longer one today guys, got myself all emotional with the rowaelin here and i hope it gets you too

masterlist - ao3

------ 

“He was friendly when he first came in,” Chaol’s normally subdued tone was full of energy as he spun his tale, eyes wide with excitement as he looked towards Aelin. “But then so quickly he goes completely crazy, shouting and ranting so loud in my face that Maeve has to come in and see what the problem is.”

Yrene laughed fondly at her husband as she rested a hand on his shoulder where she sat across the wooden staff room table from Aelin, “You could hear it all the way down the corridor.”

Aelin laughed as she took in Chaol’s wide eyed expression and Dorian’s restrained laughter, Yrene’s gentle grin and Nehemia’s cool smirk.

Her first parent-teacher conference at the new school was this evening, and to her absolute delight, her friends were busy spinning their horror stories. Admittedly, she was nervous for the event, and even though it wasn’t her first time it was always an unnerving experience at a new school. It was her opportunity to introduce herself to the parents as Miss Galathynius and show them who she was, what she had, and to prove to them that she was the best choice for their children.

Realistically, she knew she had no reason to be nervous, her class were a great group of children, they all tried hard and engaged enthusiastically with her lessons, but meeting their parents for the first time was important. Making her first impression as an educator was important, and she knew that people sometimes unfairly judged her. At her previous school she knew some of the parents had made some unfair and incorrect assumptions about her but she had tried not to let it bother her. Had tried to brush off their barely hidden insults about her styles of teaching and even her choices of clothing. She couldn’t change peoples’ opinions but she could try to change their lasting impressions of herself.

Dorian had assured her that the majority of the parents at the school were great, most were pretty chilled out as long as their child wasn’t falling too far behind, which Aelin knew hers weren’t. That said, it was Dorian who had prompted the story time session in the break room, wordlessly picking up on her nervousness and launching into every horror story he could remember from his years teaching.

Since their ill-fated affair he had cemented his place in her life as one of her closest friends, rivalling only Lysandra in level of familiarity and they had spent an increasing amount of time together. From coffee runs to lounging around the loft watching movies she enjoyed every moment they spent together and she was comfortable that there was no remaining awkwardness from their brief tangle.

She hadn’t told anyone the outcome of their date yet, she hadn’t had much time to catch up with Lysandra since, and it wasn’t something she was particularly keen to tell her roommates. As much as she loved them there were times that their typical guy nature made her hesitant to share, and her failure to sleep with her date was not something she felt like sharing with them.

She was especially reluctant to share that piece of information with Rowan, he had told her to forget about their moment in the kitchen, and she had tried. It just hadn’t worked out quite as she had planned. But she was resolved, she would get over him, and if having him think she was dating Dorian told him she was, she wasn’t complaining.

“It took five minutes for us to even figure out what he was yelling about.” Chaol continued, flashing her an exasperated look.

“Which was?” Aelin asked, already grinning in anticipation of whatever ridiculous answer Chaol could give.

In her experience Chaol was a by-the-book teacher. She liked him, he was pretty smart, straightforward and an involved and ambitious teacher, she couldn’t imagine him doing anything deserving of being shouted at by a parent.

“Chaol had, completely unreasonably,” Dorian drawled sarcastically, tossing his unstarted apple between his palms, “decided to offer his students a quiz for the last class of the week instead of one more hour of curriculum teaching.”

Yrene sketched a mocking gasp and Nehemia held a hand to her chest as she rolled her eyes at the story.

“Could you imagine such a thing?” She laughed, eyes dancing with mirth as she grinned over to Aelin.

Aelin shook her head in mock horror at Chaol, unable to fully hide her smile as she laughed along.

“How could you?” She asked, half laughing at the absurdity of the parent’s rage and half at Chaol’s over the top attempt at a dejected expression. “You aren’t actually making me feel any better about later, by the way.”

Yrene reached over to squeeze her shoulder, “You don’t need us to do that, they will all love you I’m sure.”

Aelin needed more of Yrene’s optimism in her life and admittedly the woman’s kind smile was infectious. She was also right, why wouldn’t they love her?

------

The documentary on the television hadn’t fully captured Rowan’s attention, it was something about an animal in the rainforest and he had missed the part where it’s name was given, but it would do for a lazy afternoon while the rest of his roommates were at work. The afternoons were one of his favourite times of the day, he had the loft to himself to read or watch or listen to whatever he wanted in the usually shared spaces rather than his ordinarily messy and somewhat cramped bedroom.

Being the only one of his roommates to not work in the daytimes had its ups and downs, the freedom and space was a definite pro, but sometimes it could be lonely sitting around the loft on his own, and the days Lorcan was off with him after working a shift were often ones he enjoyed the most. His friend had a sarcastic and wicked sense of humour that worked well with Rowan’s relatively blunt demeanor. He’d never tell him that though.

Of everyone in the loft he had known Lorcan for the shortest amount of time. Technically, but he didn’t count the years of Aelin being in his periphery as knowing her. They had met through Fenrys, and Rowan wasn’t convinced that even Fenrys knew how he had come to be friends with the surly male, their personalities weren’t ones Rowan would have expected to be friends, but years later Lorcan had managed to cement himself as one of Rowan’s closest friends.

He checked the time on his phone as the sound of the loft front door caught his attention, none of his roommates should be at the loft at this time.

Seconds later Aedion came into view, already shucking off his tie before launching himself onto the couch next to Rowan with a deep sigh. Rowan slowly turned his head towards his best friend, waiting for him to reopen his eyes before raising his eyebrows.

“Don’t take this the wrong way,” He began. “But why are you here?”

Aedion laughed before rolling forwards to sit upright on the sofa.

“Turned in the final piece for one of our biggest accounts this morning so we all got the afternoon off.”

“Nice,” Rowan nodded, Aedion probably worked the hardest of all of them in the loft. He worked for a marketing firm that had a bunch of high profile clients and he spent many nights in the office working overtime. Rowan shared those unpopular hours, but was grateful he didn’t have the early mornings too. “What are you doing for the rest of the day then?”

Aedion shrugged. “Thought I could spend some quality time with you my friend. Maybe find out what you wanted to talk to me about the other day.”

Aedion’s smirk was predatory, and Rowan felt like a deer in the headlights. He opened his mouth then closed it again.

He had been more than lucky to have gotten away with it for so long, he was surprised Aedion had managed the few days of Rowan saying nothing before giving in and straight up asking.

Since Aelin’s date with Dorian the man’s presence had become a regular feature of the loft, each visit reducing Rowan’s desire to admit any of his feelings about Aelin to anyone, let alone Aelin herself. He had tried to avoid being in the room when they were snuggling on the couch or had quickly changed the topic when he had come up in conversation.

Message received. He was at least glad that Aelin seemed happy, and it was his own fault that it wasn’t with him. He had told her to forget it ever happened and she had. Why Aedion wanted to make him talk about it now was anyone’s guess, he just wanted to deal with it alone. Preferably by not thinking about it, or at least trying not to.

“Oh nothing,” He brushed it off. “It doesn’t matter now.”

Aedion raised a golden eyebrow, unimpressed with Rowan’s clear denial and he winced internally. He should have known better than to assume Aedion would have been satisfied with that.

“Are you sure?” Aedion’s question was all too innocent. “You sure it wasn’t about anyone in particular?”

Rowan gritted his teeth, knowing he was just going to have to let this play out.

Aedion took a moment, pretending to ponder his next words and letting Rowan stew in his anticipation. “Not even my darling cousin?”

Rowan felt his cheeks begin to burn as he chewed on the inside of his lip. Aedion was a smug son of a bitch, smiling at Rowan like a cat who got the cream.

Rowan took a deep breath in. “Don’t fucking tell anyone, okay.”

Aedion’s expression dropped into something slightly more serious.

“Pinky swear,” Aedion grinned at him and Rowan flashed him a glare.

“I’m definitely not saying anything if you’re not being serious.”

Aedion cleared his throat, making a show of sobering his expression. “I’m serious, okay, now go.”

“So you clearly know something went down between me and Aelin,” That was as good a place to start as any he supposed. “How did you even find out about that?”

“Lysandra.” Aedion’s voice was almost dopey as he said the woman’s name. Gross, even though he was happy for his friend it was gross.

“Nice to know you and your girlfriend have nothing better to do than gossip about me.” Rowan frowned.

“Believe me, we have better things to do,” Aedion’s grin took over his whole face. “It’s just when we’re done we move on to pitying you…”

“I said be serious.” Rowan said bluntly, embarrassed enough as it was.

“Sorry, sorry.” Aedion held his hands up. “Continue.”

“There isn’t much more to be said.” He paused, realising the almost uncomfortable truth in his own words. “She’s moved past it anyway, like I told her too, so that’s it. We’re good, no danger of that.”

The look Aedion gave him was pure pity and Rowan looked away fast.

“Ro,” His friend’s voice was soft as he said his name, but he struggled for anything more, clearly reading Rowan better than he ever wanted to be read.

Rowan shrugged. “It’s fine, we’re all good.”

Aedion opened his mouth to speak but Rowan interrupted before he could get a word out.

“You need to tell her about you and Lysandra.” He could only see the secret ending in disaster, and now he was involved. He owed it to Aedion to keep the secret, but the guilt of keeping it from Aelin was eating away at him.

Aedion sighed, “I know. We will, soon. It’s just, when? You know?”

“You need to do it soon.” Rowan told him, feeling somewhat like a parent scolding a child. “You’re only going to upset her, and keeping it all a secret longer is just going to make it worse.”

Aedion looked down to the couch they sat on, avoiding Rowan’s eyes.

“I know.” He sighed.

“I don’t want her to get hurt.” It was as much as Rowan was willing to admit out loud.

“I don’t either.” Aedion’s tone was defensive and Rowan sighed.

“Now,” He began, pushing off the couch and standing above his friend. “I have a shift at the bar, you coming?”

Aedion half-smiled up at him. “Alright, but I’m not paying for any of my drinks.”

Rowan scoffed, “When do you ever?”

Aedion rose to his feet, shrugging, “Just making sure.”

Rowan rolled his eyes, feeling as Aedion always made him feel, relaxed and amused with the usual hint of mild irritation.

------

The evening had passed relatively quickly, all of the parents she had met so far had been lovely and were well engaged in their children’s lives and education which Aelin always appreciated. She only had one parent left to meet, the father of her student Evangeline, a bubbly young girl who Aelin adored. The young girl was inquisitive and tried hard with anything Aelin threw at them, a perfect student in Aelin’s eyes.

A knock on her classroom door sounded and she jumped to her feet, calling out for them to come in as she rose. The man who came through her doorway was striking, his golden hair shone and his green eyes were bright. He was dressed in a sharp grey suit, his white shirt unbuttoned at the collar and his tie was missing.

He held a hand out for her to shake and she caught a brief glance of a tattoo on his wrist, one that looked almost like a snake, peeking past his expensive looking watch.

“Archer Finn,” His voice was low and smooth, as he flashed her a polished smile.

“Aelin Galathynius,” She shook his hand firmly and smiled widely. “Please, take a seat.”

The man slid smoothly into the seat opposite her, and she forced her mind to focus on the task at hand, and reminded herself that this was one of her student’s fathers. No sign of a ring, her unhelpful mind added.

“Thank you, Miss Galathynius,” He folded his hands in his lap. “I’ve been waiting for an opportunity to speak with you about Evangeline’s progress.”

Aelin grinned. “As have I, Evangeline is a fantastic student, the passion she displays in the classroom is phenomenal. Her artwork-- she displays a level of true talent.”

“Yes,” His tone was clipped. “That is what I have been hoping to talk to you about.”

Aelin felt her smile freeze.

“Evangeline will not be participating in any art activities from this point onwards, I don’t believe they are of any value. To put it bluntly, they’re a complete waste of time.”

Aelin was frozen, paused in a state of shock at the man’s words.

“I unfortunately have to disagree--”

He held a hand up to stop her and she recoiled.

“Please, Miss Galathynius,” He huffed out a condescending laugh and Aelin felt her blood begin to boil. “As her father I believe I know what is best for Evangeline.”

“And what is that?” She asked dryly.

Archer Finn seemed to take a moment, raking his eyes from her head to her toe before meeting her gaze again. She could tell the look hadn’t been one of appreciation and she bristled.

“What Evangeline needs is a teacher who takes her education seriously, someone who understands that painting her pretty pictures is a waste of time.” The sarcasm in his voice had her clenching her jaw, but she tried to rein in her temper, remembering that she was still new to the school.

“Mr Finn, I--”

He held a hand to her face again and stood, buttoning his suit jacket as he did, and Aelin slowly rose out of her chair.

“Mr Finn, I have a masters degree in children’s education, I know the value of creativity in learning.” Aelin could hardly keep her voice steady as she spoke, barely concealing the anger the man in front of her had managed to unleash inside her in such a short space of time.

The man seemed to sneer at her words, looking down his nose at her as he frowned.

“You may well have, and I’m sure it was worth every penny to you.” He smirked at her, crushing her with only a handful of words. “Either way, Evangeline will be seeing a private tutor during your creative hours.”

The scorn in his voice burned her, hitting her in a deep part of her soul that wasn’t often exposed. She knew she was right, knew that she knew what Evangeline needed, knew that her methods of teaching had merit and worth. This sad excuse for a father was blind and arrogant if he thought he knew better than Aelin, but she was trapped. What more could she say to change his mind?

In her silence he had crossed the room to pause by the door before turning back to look at her where she stood dumbfounded behind her desk, clenching her fists at her sides and trying to compose herself.

“I’m glad we had this chat, Miss Galathynius.” With that he was gone, taking his smug and condescending atmosphere with him.

Her breath rushed out of her in a gust, burning her throat as she held back the tears that threatened to fall. She couldn’t believe him, Mr Finn. The audacity he had to walk into her classroom and speak to her like that.

She dropped back into her seat, resting both of her hands against the cool wood of her desk and focussing on all the knots and whorls in the wood, breathing deeply in and out as she centred her thoughts. She almost couldn’t believe how her evening had ended up and she let out a brief snort at the idea that maybe her story could now beat Chaol’s from this morning.

A knock at her door snapped her to attention, if Mr Finn had come back for another go at her she wouldn’t be able to bite her tongue this time. Her fears were sedated when a familiar head of dark curls poked around the door frame.

Dorian’s smile was bright and easy as he walked towards her, perching on the front of one of her student's desks.

“So?” He asked as he crossed his ankles in front of himself, the portrait of a male completely at ease.

Aelin only shook her head, unable to sum up her final visit in a few words.

“Have you ever taught Evangeline Finn?” She managed, hating how destroyed she sounded even to her own ears.

Dorian barely managed to cover his wince.

“Ah,” He sighed. “You met Archer Finn. How bad was it?”

She looked at the floor, holding back the flood that wanted to break through, she refused to cry in school over a parent, no matter how much he had riled her up.

“Bad,” She managed but her voice betrayed her, letting a crack rip through the word.

Dorian was around the desk and at her side within a second, resting a comforting hand on her shoulder.

“What did he say?” Dorian asked, his tone gentle as if not to startle her.

Aelin sniffed. “Oh you know, the usual, dismissing my teaching and belittling my degree.”

She let out a self-deprecating laugh as she looked to Dorian whose brow creased at her words.

“Don’t listen to him. You know he’s not right.” She knew his words were earnest, but they couldn’t keep the doubt at bay and she shrugged out of his hold.

“I don’t know,” She looked away.

“Come on,” Dorian tried. “Let’s get a drink or something, take your mind off it.”

“Thanks, Dorian. But I think I just want to go home and be alone.”

Dorian’s mouth twisted as he considered it, probably weighing up whether or not to try again. Eventually he relented.

“Text me if you need anything, okay? I’m here for you.”

She lightly squeezed his hand before rising to pack up her things. His offer hadn’t tempted her, she did want to be alone, but maybe a drink wouldn’t be such a bad idea.

------

The bar was relatively busy, a few customers every so often had him drifting in and out of conversation with Aedion. Lorcan had joined Aedion at the bar not long after they arrived, grumbling about something or other that Rowan soon avoided, turning back to another customer after dropping off Lorcan’s pint.

A brief lull allowed him to drift back to his friends, wiping down a few spills along the bar as he went.

“It’s the fucking worst, all right.” The dark-haired giant complained, words muffled by the strong hand he ran down his face.

Rowan turned to Aedion for explanation who merely shrugged before lifting his empty glass to Rowan. He grabbed it and turned to refill it as Lorcan spoke again.

“I didn’t sign up for any of this, stupid regulations and reforms.”

Lorcan was clearly in a talking mood tonight. Rowan met Aedion’s eyes, a silent challenge, begging the blond man to speak first but Aedion just leaned back in his seat, taking a large gulp of his beer. Rowan flicked him the middle finger before turning to Lorcan.

“What is?”

Lorcan turned the force of his glare to Rowan who shifted against the unexpected heat.

“My stupid boss.”

“What about them?” Aedion finally joined in.

Lorcan sighed, a frustrated sound as if explaining it would be hard work. Rowan grinned a sharp flash of teeth at Aedion who rolled his eyes at their friend’s dramatics.

“I don’t want to talk about it. I want to drink.” Lorcan finished his drink in a final swig, placing the glass before Rowan ceremoniously.

Rowan scooped it up, sketching a mocking salute at his friend. “That, we can do.”

As he turned he spotted Fenrys making his way over from the door and he grabbed another glass to fill as the golden-haired man took his seat. He dumped the drinks in front of his friends with little finesse as Fenrys spoke.

“Why is Aelin sitting in the corner on her own?”

Aelin?

“Aelin’s here?” Aedion asked as the four of them turned to look where Fenrys had pointed.

Sure enough, Aelin was tucked away in a booth in the corner of the room. He hadn’t noticed her come in and Rowan could see the glum expression on her face even from a distance.

“Is she okay?” He managed.

“She doesn’t look okay.”

The three of them swivelled to look at Lorcan, matching looks of disbelief across each of their faces.

“Has she said anything to any of you?” Fenrys asked. “Anything to Lysandra?” With a look to Aedion who shook his head.

“Should we go over?” Aedion asked, an unsure twist to his mouth.

“If she wanted to sit with us she’d be here.” Lorcan said bluntly.

“Shut up, asshole.” Rowan narrowed his eyes. “I’ll take her a drink.”

-------

The glass of wine was cool in his hand as he made his way across the bar, skirting round tables of customers as he went.

“Hey,” His voice was soft as he reached Aelin’s booth, lingering by the edge of the table as she looked up at him.

His heart jolted at the expression she wore. Her beautiful blue eyes were wide and red-rimmed, her plush pink lips twisted into a pout. She swallowed before speaking and the hurt in her voice tore his heart again.

“Oh. Didn’t think you’d notice me here.” Her voice was quiet as he dropped into the seat opposite her and pushed the glass towards her.

“It’s kind of my job to notice who needs a drink,” He said equally quietly, leaning forwards and pressing his arms against the table between them. He had hoped his words would bring a smile but Aelin pursed her lips, debating, before reaching towards the glass and taking a sip.

At least there was that.

“You don’t-- I mean, you don’t have to answer... If you don’t want to, but,” He didn’t usually stumble over his words so much. “Are you okay?”

Aelin’s refusal to meet his eyes pretty much answered his question, but he still waited for her to speak.

She blew out a breath, the air teasing the fair strands of hair around her face as she looked towards the ceiling then back down to him.

“Not really.” She said as she looked away from him again.

He spared a glance over to the bar where his friends sat, watching him and Aelin, each with expressions of concern. Even Lorcan for all his grumbling before Rowan came over.

“What happened?” He asked as gently as he could.

Aelin took a sip of her wine, glancing around the bar and spotting their friends who quickly jumped back into their own conversation before resting her gaze back on him.

She shrugged, putting her glass back on the table before speaking.

“One of my student’s parents basically told me I’m a shit teacher today.”

“Aelin no,” The words left him in a rush, utterly raw in his desperation to reassure her. “Aelin, you have to know you’re not a shit teacher.”

She looked up at him through her eyelashes, her pout still standing strong.

“What did they say?”

“Just that my degree is worthless and that I don’t know what’s best for the kids.”

Asshole. Fucking asshole.

If he ever saw the asshole who had said those cruel words to Aelin he’d-- He didn’t know what he’d do but it would hurt.

“Aelin, don’t listen to them. That’s not true.”

“It’s not?” Her question, in combination with her soft sniffle shattered him.

He reached out to lightly grasp one of her hands in his, gently toying with her delicate fingers.

“Of course not Aelin. You’re an incredible teacher.”

She drew her hand back to take another sip of her wine.

“How would you know?” She asked. “You’ve never seen me teach.”

“I don’t need to Aelin. I know you, and you’re everything a good teacher should be. Kind, caring, patient, passionate-”

“Okay,” She interrupted.

“I’m serious Aelin, promise me you won’t believe a word that asshole said.”

She scoffed, looking away from him yet again.

“Aelin?”

“Okay, I promise.” Her tone was resigned, but at least she had agreed. He didn’t know how much help he had managed to be, but he hoped at least a small part of her had listened.

“What are you doing sitting alone anyway? You can always come to us with things like this.” He knew without a doubt that the others would agree.

She brushed a strand of hair away from her face, and Rowan’s fingers itched to follow the motion but he held his hands together, now under the table. She shrugged as a faint blush crossed her cheeks and Rowan fought the warmth blooming inside him at the sight.

“Come and drink with us.” He said, nodding his head towards where the others were sitting at the bar. “Salvaterre’s miserable too so you won’t be alone.”

At that, Aelin’s lips twitched as the hint of a smile ghosted across her face, it was the closest he had seen all night and he’d take it.

“Why?” Her voice was quiet.

“Other than the usual?” He joked and she finally cracked a real smile, small but still there, and the relief that flooded through him was like lightning. “I think it’s something about his work or his boss, I don’t really know.”

He slid himself out of the booth and held a hand out to her, his final request, if she really didn’t want to join them he could accept that, but he knew he’d still keep an eye on her for the rest of the night.

Thankfully she stood, grabbing her things and leading the way over to their friends, and he sent a silent prayer of thanks to the gods. Over her head he saw Aedion flash him a thankful smile. She flopped onto a stool next to Fenrys as Rowan slid back behind the bar.

“So,” She turned to Lorcan, barely missing a beat. “What are you crying about now?”

Lorcan didn’t hesitate before lunging into his story, his own subtle way of making sure Aelin was alright and not dwelling on her issues.

“My new boss is an asshole. Turns up in Rifthold fresh out of headquarters in somewhere called Perranth, and thinks everyone should just bow down or something. Now, first of all, I’ve never even heard of Perranth,” He paused to take a bitter swig of his beer.

“Me neither,” Fenrys chimed in.

“It’s in Terrasen,” Aelin said after a sip of her own wine. The heaviness from before didn’t weigh on her face anymore and Rowan turned to serve another customer, hiding his smile. “I think I went once when I was a kid.”

Lorcan frowned at her but Rowan could tell it lacked it’s usual heat.

“Whatever,” Lorcan continued. “The point is, I’ve worked here for years, I know Rifthold and how things are done. Captain Lochan has been here all of five minutes and apparently knows all the improvements we need to make.”

The curl of Lorcan’s lips as he hissed his boss’ name prompted a small laugh, the guy must be a total hardass to have Lorcan so riled.

“What’s wrong with the improvements?” Aelin asked and Lorcan sighed.

“Nothing is wrong with the improvements,” He muttered and Aelin finally laughed, the tinkling sound washing over Rowan and settling into his bones.

“So what’s the problem?” Aedion asked after a moment, the question that they were all thinking and Lorcan shot him a glare, this time not lacking any heat.

“The problem is the Captain. So controlling and everything has to be done in exactly their way, constantly on me about my reports as well.” He rolled his eyes, clearly over talking about his boss and Rowan couldn't help from poking the bear one last time.

“Why don’t you invite the Captain here? I don’t know any problem a free beer couldn’t solve.”

“Absolutely not.” Lorcan said, shaking his head.

“Well I, for one, want to meet the famous Captain Lochan.” Fenrys grinned. “Especially if it would annoy you so much.”

“Don’t.” Lorcan said, a hair’s width below a growl.

“Why not?” Aedion joined in and Rowan watched the smile settling on Aelin’s lips at their friends’ antics.

He shook himself, laughing along as Lorcan slugged Aedion in the shoulder.

“Maybe find something to take your mind off it?” Fenrys suggested and Rowan knew where he was going would be fun. “Get a pet or something?”

“Just watch me, boyo.” Lorcan bared his teeth around the grin threatening to take over his own face. His pretend displeasure only just winning the battle.

The smile on Aelin’s face struck him again in its beauty, and he forced his attention away from her and back to the idiots now suggesting outlandish animals Lorcan could bring home as a pet.

He bit his lip as Aelin suggested a lion in response to Aedion’s tiger and thanked the gods again that she was smiling.

------

tags:

@jesstargaryenqueen

@maybekindasortaace

@slytheringalathynius

@http-itsrebecca

@morganofthewildfire

@in-love-with-caramel-macchiato

@fictional-horan

@tottenhamboys20

@dressedindustandshadows

@sleeping-and-books

@perseusannabeth

@ireallyshouldsleeprn

@superspiritfestival

@aelinfeyreeleven945tbln

@spyofthenightcourt

@jlinez

@queen-of-glass

@booknerdproblems

@sjmships

@elriel4life

@bamchickawowow

@woollycat22

@claralady

@illyrianwitchling​​

@SHINYA-HIIRAGI

hmu if any tags don’t work

[dawninlatin]

Queen of Peace, chapter 6

A Manorian High School AU

Words: 2167

AO3 Link

Masterlist

Summary: Manon Blackbeak is flawless, untouchable. From the outside at least. Her grandmother pushes her to achieve greatness, and she doesn’t let anyone get too close in fear of being hurt. How can anyone love her when not even her parents could?

Dorian Havilliard has always felt safe and confident around his friends. He might not have the greatest of families, but with Aelin and Chaol by his side, nothing can go wrong. That is until he tries keeping his greatest secret from them.

What will happen when Dorian and Manon gets to know one another? Can two lost souls find their way back together?

And I’ve been taking chances

I’ve been setting myself up for the fall

I’ve been keeping secrets

From my heart and from my soul

-Florence + The Machine, Lover to Lover

Once Saturday arrived, Dorian had almost forgotten about his plans to meet up with Manon and discuss their project. He couldn’t blame himself for forgetting, not when yesterday had been so eventful.

He’d done it. He had come out as bi to Chaol. After months and months of keeping it a secret, of hiding, of hating himself for being unable to just say it, he’d done it. And Chaol’s reaction had been better than he could ever hope for.

There was still a long way to go, he still hadn’t told Aelin, or his family, but he had taken that first, terrifying leap of faith, and that mattered. His father probably wouldn’t have the same reaction as his best friend, but Dorian found himself not caring that much. As long as he had Chaol and Aelin, the latter whom he’d tell the next time he saw her, everything would be fine.

Then there was the case of Manon Blackbeak. Dorian still couldn’t quite believe that she had actually texted him, had actually agreed to meet up with him on a Saturday, of all days, to discuss some English project. Even as he walked through the heavy doors of the communal library, he had to pull up his phone one more time, just to be sure it wasn’t all some figment of his imagination.

But there she was, sitting by one of the many tables, a notebook open in front of her. She was staring straight ahead, looking as if she might stand up and bolt at any moment. Seeing her out of school was…strange, Dorian thought to himself. It felt as if he had entered some brand new, undiscovered territory, as if he had found a window, offering a look at who she really was behind the mask of uncaring coldness.

Walking towards her table, he wiped his sweaty palms on the front of his jacket, trying to calm his thundering heart. You have nothing to be nervous about, he told himself, but he didn’t believe it for a moment. Dorian desperately wanted her to like him. He wanted her to smile and laugh and talk about the things she cared about. He just really wanted to get to know her.

«Hey,» Dorian said as he reached the table, pulling out the chair on the opposite side of Manon, whom he now noticed wasn’t staring at nothing, she was listening to music. And she seemed fairly lost in it. I wonder what she listens to, some voice inside him whispered. «Hey!» he said again, louder this time. That seemed to get her attention. She didn’t greet him back, her pulling out her earbuds and placing them on the table the only sign she even knew he was there.

«What were you listening to?» he asked in a nimble attempt to break the heavy tension, the wooden chair creaking as he sat down.

«Nothing.»

Dorian couldn’t tear his eyes off of her. Even while she was glaring at him, looking as if she wanted to be anywhere but here, there was no denying the fact that she was beautiful. Manon was wearing her usual leather jacket and vintage t-shirt, but her hair was loose, swept over one shoulder, and she wasn’t wearing any make up except for a bright-red lipstick. It somehow made her look younger, softer.

Deciding to play this the usual way, Dorian gave her a once-over, before bringing out his signature smirk. «You look nice today. New lipstick?»

-

«Cut the crap already. I’m not here to make ‘nice’ small-talk or to pretend I actually wanna do this, so let’s just pick a book and get it over with. I have other places to be right now.»

She must have done something really bad, Manon concluded, because some god was punishing her in the most cruel of ways. Dorian Havilliard was sitting across from her, giving her a look that, to her greatest horror, actually made her toes curl. He was handsome, there were no other ways to describe him, with his stupid, pretty blue eyes and his stupid, curly, dark hair. The smart choice would be to stay as far away from his as possible. He brought nothing but trouble.

But you’re not smart, are you? You would have stayed away if you were. You truly are your mother’s daughter.

And it was true, what she’d said. She had other places to be, and coming here today was a risk, one she already regretted. Normally, she spent her Saturdays in the dance studio, honing her already flawless moves. She had to, if she wanted to stay on top, if she wanted to be the very best. Nothing else is good enough. Manon didn’t want to imagine what her punishment would be if her grandmother found out she had been slacking today. Even if this was all for a school project. Good thing the woman was currently out of town.

Her attention shifted back to Dorian as he cleared his throat. «I have been thinking a little, and I think we should do our project on Harry Potter.»

Oh, he had got to be kidding her, Manon thought as she schooled her features to look as unimpressed as possible. Had she been anyone else, she would have laughed at his suggestion, but Manon Blackbeak didn’t laugh. The only emotion she showed was plain, unimpressed boredom. It was simply easier that way. Better to push people away before they got the chance to leave.

Because how could anyone ever want to stay with her, when not even her parents could?

But that trick didn’t work on Dorian. She was just as cruel and cold with him as she was with everyone else, yet he didn’t shy away, didn’t leave her alone. It was why she couldn’t stay away either. He saw something in her that no one else did, something she kept hidden in the very depth of her soul. Him asking her about her music had been enough to unnerve her. She didn’t share her music with anyone, but for a second, she had wanted to tell him, to show him. Dorian threw her off balance, and it terrified her. Not that she would ever admit it.

«It might not be the most traditional of choices, but there are a lot of elements to analyze and discuss, and Mr. Norton wanted us to show independence and originality. And besides, everyone loves Harry Potter once they try it.»

«Isn’t it a children’s book?» Manon asked, and eyebrow raised in question. She didn’t want to be here, and she most definitely didn’t want to read his book.

«Oh, you sweet, innocent muggle,» Dorian drawled. A deadly glare was Manon’s only response to what was clearly some nerdy reference she didn’t get. She did not have the time for silly stories.

There was a glow in his eyes now, a glow she knew all too well, only because she got that very same glow in her own eyes whenever she read about nearly forgotten historical events or some long lost mythology from worlds now turned to dust.

«There is no way I am going to read Harry Potter.»

«Do you have a better suggestion?» As he said that, Dorian looked way too smug for Manon’s liking, but he had a point. She didn’t have a better suggestion.

Deeming her silence a good enough answer, Dorian leaned back in his chair, placing his hands behind his head. «That’s what I thought.»

At this very moment, Manon decided she hated group projects. She hated the lack of control, hated the fact that she had to compromise every damn thing, hated that her grade partly relied on a smirking bastard and his ability to analyze a book. A children’s book at that. This was her senior year, for fuck’s sake, she didn’t have the time for this. She had to focus, had to avoid any distraction, her future depended on it, but Dorian Havilliard and Mr. Norton’s idiotic assignment made that very hard at the moment.

-

Later that night, as Dorian was sitting on his bed, once again reading the opening words of Harry Potter and The Sorcerer’s Stone, he couldn’t help but think of how somewhere else in their small town, Manon was discovering this fantastic world for the first time.

He wished he could be with her right now, wished he could see her reactions to all of his favorite scenes. Would she laugh? Would she roll her eyes? Would she fall in love with it as much as he had? Dorian sincerely hoped she would love it, and after today, he had a feeling she was the exact type to get lost in a story.

Their meeting had been very awkward at first, and Dorian had nearly been sure she would get up and leave at some point, but as they had begun planning and discussing their project, they had eased into a natural, flowing conversation, undoubtedly being on the same page when it came to how they wanted to go through with their project.

Then Manon had come up with the idea of comparing fantasy to real life mythology, and it was as if a brand new person had taken her place. While she was explaining how fiction almost always came from real events, and how world history had helped shape most literature, Dorian had gotten lost in the sound of her voice, so eager and confident.

She had almost smiled as she went on and on about ancient legends, her eyes practically glowing, and Dorian had felt like the fucking chosen one himself for being able to witness it. Manon had shown him a glimpse of herself, of who she was under that mask of carefully calculated coldness.

Did the real her look at everything with such passion? Dorian didn’t know, but he was hell-bent on finding out.

-

Manon should have gone to bed by now, but that stupid book was impossible to put down.

She had been right, it was a children’s story, and yet it had sucked her in from the very beginning. Was Dorian lying awake, reading, just like her?

The world was quiet as her eyes hungrily roved over page after page, a single lamp lit in her otherwise dark room. She was all alone, with the exception of Abraxos, who currently lay sprawled on his back by her side.

Asterin had not come home tonight either, and merely thinking about it caused a knot to form in her stomach. She had been lying to her grandmother about it for weeks now, protecting Asterin from the punishment that would surely come if their grandmother ever found out, but Manon didn’t think she could keep up the charade for much longer.

I have done everything for you, to make sure you do not end up like your mother, and yet you have the nerve to lie to me? That ungratefulness will bring you nowhere in life. You are pathetic, weak, worthless-

Manon could feel the sting of a palm against her cheek as she heard her grandmothers voice speak into her mind. She was becoming distracted, especially after today.

Apparently, it wasn’t bad enough that she was lying about her cousin, she had also lied today about her whereabouts. Instead of spending the day training, she had gone to the library to meet a boy. Dorian Havilliard to be specific.

And Manon hated to admit it, but she had enjoyed the time they spent together. They made a good team, the two of them. She had tried her very best to stay cold and disinterested, but planning their project had made her eager. If all went to plan, they were going to nail it.

Then there was Dorian. Manon had been set on not liking him, but talking together was so easy, almost fun. And the time had passed so quickly.

Despite herself, Manon actually wanted to spend more time with him, wanted to keep talking and keep sharing ideas and thoughts.

Friends will get you nowhere in life. They will only hold you back.

Her grandmother was right. She couldn’t let anything distract her. She had to be better. Had to do better. Beginning with getting enough sleep.

Only one more chapter, and then she would put the book away, even if she had decided she wanted to stay at Hogwarts forever.

As Manon kept reading, she reached a scene that was so ridiculous she couldn’t help but let out a rich laugh, the sound echoing through the otherwise empty house. It was so earnest she felt it deep down in her belly.

And although she was smiling, the grin quickly faded away when Manon realized she could not remember the last time she had done so.

A/N: Started making it.

Had a breakdown.

Bon appetite.

Okay, on a more serious note, I did not think continuing this would be so hard, and I am nowhere near happy with how this chapter turned out, but I did try, so A for effort:)

Shortly after I published chapter 5 my mental health reached an all time low, and I found my motivation to be gone. I am doing way better now, and am still determined to finish this, even if it will take a loooong time.

When I started writing again, it seemed my brain had short-curcuited, so I apologize for how bad and out of rhythm this chapter is (what even is English, lol). I understand if you are disappointed, because so am I.

But I want to give a HUGE thank you to everyone who comments and leaves kudos and all that, without you, I never would have picked this story up again...Love u all!!

Peace&Love<3 -Dawninlatin

[pitterpatterpot]

A Lion’s Pride - Chapter Seven

9.

Aedion is on edge, as well as Aelin. Ever since Lysandra left with Fenrys and Gavriel to visit Elide in Perranth the two have been prowling the castle, snapping at others out of a strange sense of worry.

“When are they coming back?”

“Two days.”

“Two days? Shouldn’t it be faster?”

“No, it’s two days.”

“Are you sure, because it’s already been a week-“

“Two. Days,” Rowan pinches the bridge of his nose, looking away from Aelin and Aedion. “It will take two days. Two days, and Fenrys, Gavriel and Lysandra will be back, alright?”

“But-“

“Fleetfoot,” Rowan stands suddenly. “Why don’t you two take Fleetfoot for a walk? You always enjoy that.”

“They could have-“

“It’s a beautiful day,” Rowan has one hand on their back each, gently pushing them towards the door. “The sun is shining, the sky is clear, Fleetfoot would love to play some games and you two could burn off your energy.”

At once both cousins twist their heads around, scowling at Rowan as if personally offended. Which they are, technically.

“How old do you think we are?” Aedion snaps. “Five?”

“You? Yes,” Rowan glares. “Aelin you’re in charge.”

“Excuse me? You know I’m the older one, right?”

He ignores their protests as he shuts the door.

~~~

Sunlight streams through the canopy of trees, the three members of Terrasen’s court struggling through the undergrowth.

“See? There’s the palace. You’re going to be fine.”

The figure hanging between the two of them just groans.

~~~

“How’s my baby? Huh? How’s my girl?” Aelin asks, kneeling down and allowing Fleetfoot to climb upon her as she plays with her fluffy ears.

“Wanna play?” Aedion grins, hunkering down to roughly ruffle her coat. “We can play fetch with Aelin. I throw, you chase.”

“As if you wouldn’t be the one throne,” Aelin snorts. “Can’t last a day without Lysandra around.”

“Like you aren’t missing them,” Aedion narrows is eyes. “You miss your second favourite puppy.”

Aelin says nothing to that, not even a word in Fenrys’ defence.

Barking, Fleetfoot runs around their feet, trotting happily next to them as they stroll down the garden path, red and white flowers blooming around them. She strays away to sniff at the buds, the cousins watching with small flowers as she pauses to roll around in a patch of grass.

“What about Gavriel and Lysandra?” Aelin raises a brow. “I was certain that they were both half of your impulse control each.”

“I lasted twenty-four years without them, didn’t I? I can do it again.”

“And that fire yesterday morning?”

Aedion stops, whirling around on her, clearly aghast. “That was you! I went in to put it out!”

“But did you succeed?” Aelin raises a brow.

Shaking his head, Aedion turns away. “I- no. We are not talking about this.”

“Fine,” Aelin rolls her eyes. “Deny your queen. I mean, it’s only-“

She cuts off at Fleetfoot’s frantic barking, the coarse sound breaking through the silence as she races ahead of them. Without hesitation Aelin and Aedion spring after her, darting around corners and Aelin even being forced to jump over a gardener.

Good thing she passed on wearing one of her elegant, lavish dresses.

Fleetfoot doesn’t stop until she’s rounded the corner of the side of the palace, barking at three people hobbling towards them.

Both Aelin and Aedion pale at the sight of blood, Aelin pausing in her running to call for guards while Aedion continues to fly towards them. Barely listening to the guards forging forward Aedion helps Lysandra and Gavriel lower Fenrys to the ground, the fae barking himself at the pressure on his clearly broken leg.

“I’m fine,” he pants, sweat beading his brow. “Just need a healer.”

“I didn’t have enough magic in me to heal the bone,” Gavriel mutters, aiding Aedion in lowering his friend. “The journey was long, and I had already healed Lysandra’s wrist-“

Without a moments pause Aedion whips around to Lysandra, allowing Gavriel to catch the cursing Fenrys before he falls the last few centimetres. “Your wrist?”

She holds up both hands, wriggling her fingers. “I’m perfectly fine. Gavriel healed me well, though he should have saved the last of his magic to aid Fenrys.”

“If I knew a damn hunter,” Fenrys growls, “was going to pull a trap on me I wouldn’t have turned into a wolf!”

“A hunter hurt you?” Aelin’s eyes flash as she stalks towards them, kneeling by Fenrys’ side. “Who are they? Where did you find them?”

Everyone besides Fenrys and Aelin give a little wince at that. It’s no secret that the queen is protective of the wolf, just as he is of her. Since Fenrys started turning into his wolf form, something he did in order to rip out the throat of someone threatening Aelin, he’s been slowly relaxing once again. It warmed all their hearts to see some strain leak from the wolf, his laughs and smiles becoming more genuine and less faked. If this attack, this injury by a hunter, has any negative effect on Fenrys’ comfortability in turning into a wolf Aelin will be on a man hunt. And Gavriel, Lorcan, Vaughan and Rowan by no doubt. They new Fenrys, helped train him, and in no doubt will want to defend someone who used to be their student. Someone they trained. Gavriel himself has a stiff and clenched jaw, a small flow of agitation waving form him.

A healer immediately returns with the guards along with Vaughan, using magic to heal Fenrys’ leg while everyone watches closely. Soon the wolf is able to stand, albeit limping, and is slowly led to his room with Vaughan’s support.

“Alright,” Aelin sucks in a deep breath, running her taught hands through her hair. “I’m going to go keep an eye on Fenrys. The healer did what she could but he’ll still need to rest. Aedion, you take over the investment dealings in trade. Fenrys was going over that, but I want him to rest so you take over those finances.”

Both Gavriel and Lysandra notice the way Aedion hesitates slightly before agreeing. They share a glance, Gavriel raising a brow and Lysandra resisting a smile. They’ll quiz him together later.

It’s one of their favourite activities to do together, after all.

~~~

“I need your help,” Aedion murmurs to Rowan, hands braced on the table as he leans forward, eyes darting around frantically. “I’m being watched.”

Immediately the king of Terrasen sits upright, leaning towards his brother-in-arms (and in-law, if you ask anyone in the inner-circle). “Assassins?”

“My father and mate,” Aedion deadpans, horribly serious.

“Go eat, Aedion,” Rowan turns away, unimpressed.

“I don’t know what they want,” Aedion hisses, obviously panicked. “For some reason this happens sometimes; I can’t turn away without one of them there! It’s as if I’m being herded, or preyed upon!”

Rowan tries to swallow back a laugh. He knows very well that Gavriel and Lysandra both plan and strategise against Aedion from time-to-time. They make quiet the team.

“I’m sure it’s all just a coincidence,” Rowan keeps a straight face, internally cackling at his suffering. “Just go talk to your father, maybe that will rectify it. Or Lysandra. Either one of the two will do.”

He doesn’t know when they all started openly referring to Gavriel as Aedion’s father instead of just by his name. Aedion’s acceptance of Gavriel has given the Lion a new title, one that every member of the court can see Gavriel light up at every time it’s used. It’s nice to see his eldest friend beam every time he is referred to as Aedion’s father, even more so when Aedion is the one who does it himself.

“Thank you for helping me,” Aedion glares, sliding back. “Talking to the very people I’m purposefully avoiding is a fantastic suggestion.”

“And why are you avoiding me?”

“Because they want something! Information, a deal, something!” Aedion insists. 

“Right,” Rowan nods, while secretly waving, leaning to the side so that Aedion doesn’t see the action occurring behind his back. “So tell me, when did this strange behaviour begin?”

He doesn’t actually give a shit, but he needs to stall.

“It started this morning,” Aedion places his head in his hands, voice exhausted. “I woke up, and Lysandra was strangely attentive. As soon as I left I ran into Gavriel here, at the dining hall. Then as soon as I left Lysandra was waiting at the rings for me to spar, and kept pestering me with questions. I left to go over and complete Fenrys’ work, but Gavriel was waiting there for me. As soon as I finished a came here, but it was as if they were both waiting for me around every corner! I have to tell you, Rowan, that I don’t know if I can relax while-“

“Aedion.”

It shocks both Rowan and Gavriel at the way Aedion jumps and yells at his father’s hand on his arm. Rowan leans back, glancing from Gavriel to Aedion and back again, clearly startled at Aedion’s reaction.  

Who knew the general could get this wound up.

“Are you alright?” Gavriel asks Aedion, concern written across his face as he sits next to his son, a hand braced on Aedion’s shoulder.

One hand clasped to his heart Aedion nods, breathing heavily as he stares wide-eyed at his father, leaning away slightly.

“Alright,” Gavriel says, clearly not believing him with the incredulous look he gives. “I was wondering if we could talk?”

Swallowing thickly, Aedion nods, hand still gripping above his heart.

“Alone.”

Aedion winces. As if the request couldn’t get any worse, he now knows that the topic at hand is a serious one. As he leads his son away Gavriel has to bite the inside of his cheek, glancing at a green-eyed mouse that watched Aedion’s reaction from a nearby table.

It’d be mean to laugh.

So they’ll do it together later. Not that Gavriel told her what he found in the office; no, he’ll leave that to Aedion to explain.

“I realised that you were going to give the investment lists to an official,” Gavriel steps into the office with Aedion in tow, gesturing to the papers strewn out across the desk, “but then I looked at them myself.”

He picks up a sheet, looking at his son with concern after he takes in the investment and insurance rates as well as taxes. “Aedion, you didn’t get a single thing right.”

Looking away, Aedion’s jaw stiffens. “I usually just let an official do it, or go over it with me.”

Gabriel further looks through the papers, baffled at the amount of crossed out and scribbled equations. “Do you not know how to do this? Shouldn’t you have learnt?”

Aedion keeps his arms crossed and back straight, still stubbornly looking away. “It wasn’t exactly easy to continue my education while a war and invasion was breaking out.”

The realisation slaps Gavriel in the face. “Aedion-“

“I was thirteen,” Aedion’s hands tighten on his arms. “It wasn’t as if I knew nothing. I was one of the lucky ones considering children such as Elide were left without the ability to read. Along the way through the war I also learnt basic math, as well as languages and geography and how to be a tactician. I know politics and laws like the back of my hand considering I’ve dabbled with treason and kings and queens. But there was never a need for me to learn this. My job was never to work through taxes or investments. Or insurance. It makes no sense! I mean the rates and how they can apparently ride or fall and the fact that the sums are just so large-“

“Alright,” Gavriel jumps in, watching Aedion sag against the desk, rubbing at his face as if tired. “Aedion, why didn’t you simply tell any of us you don’t understand different components of math?”

“Because you all do,” Aedion keeps his gaze averted, anger clear through the clenching of his jaw. “Aelin and Lysandra both gained detailed educations. You and Rowan and the others are hundreds of years old with knowledge. I don’t know how-“ Aedion pauses for a moment, swallowing before forcing the words forward. “I don’t know how to explain that my education was rudimentary at best even though I’m a general helping to lead this country.”

“I think it’s clear, as seen both through you and Elide, that smarts don’t just come from academics,” Gavriel raises his brows. “You were right in saying you were one of the lucky ones. Right now out of your generation you may be one of the ones with a higher standing of education.”

Something they’ll have to work on. There are too many people who missed on education and other means to survive. But as always the persistence of the people never ceases to amaze, the citizens trooping forward to gain a richer future for their children.

“You could have just asked for help,” Gavriel shrugs.

He knows Aedion couldn’t have, not with how stubborn he is.

“Right,” Aedion runs a hand over his neck, still not looking Gavriel in the eye. “Just... please don’t tell Lysandra. I don’t want her to know.”

Shaking his head, Gavriel frowns. “Aedion-“

“I don’t think understand how shameful it feels,” his son looks at him clearly then, “to sit with your cousin and mate and barely understand a word they’re saying in terms of the state of your country.”

Suckling in a deep breath, Gavriel nods. “Alright. I believe that you should tell her instead of suffering in silence-“

-‘thanks to your own damn pride,’ he doesn’t add-

“-but I’ll help you,” Gavriel offers. “If you’d like.”

Relief clears Aedion’s face. “I would like that. In all honestly I have no idea what the fuck I’m doing.”

“I could tell when you started scribbling down dates to try to see who out of Rowan and I is older.”

“You both day you’re in your five-hundreds. That gives almost a hundred year span to differ from!”

“Not you have aptitude at math,” Gavriel smiles, sliding into the desks seat and sorting through the papers, grabbing out a pen to point out where Aedion went wrong and offer correct methods and solutions.

Aedion drags a seat around to sit next to him, dutifully watching as Gavriel explains which methods fit which problems and what steps Aedion skipped.

After a moment of silence Aedion speaks up. “Would you have helped me with schoolwork like this if you lived here, with us, when I was a child?”

Gavriel pauses for barely a second before continuing. “Undoubtedly. I also would have stopped you from literally brawling in the hallways.”

Laughing, Aedion tips back in his chair. “How different do you think I’d be, if I had been raised by you?”

This time Gavriel does pause, looking over to his son. “I don’t know what you were like before the war broke out, but I have no doubt in my mind that you have always been a wild spirit.”

A small smile tugs at Aedion’s mouth. It’s the truth, but they both know what Gavriel won’t say. That Aedion would have been less angry, less explosive and stubborn. That he may have grown to be a male at peace with himself and others instead of one at constant war. That patience may have been sewn into his bones.

But neither of them say that. They simply let the truth hang between them, a truth that lurks too closely to saying ‘you would have been better.’

At least in Aedion’s mind that’s what it would be. That’s the truth he’s been contemplating.

Gavriel for his part meant what he said; Aedion is a wild spirit. To see him subdued in any way would be heartbreaking. His truth is a far cry from his son’s.

“I would have been better, I think,” Aedion says quietly, allowing his truth to spread free.

Gavriel clicks his tongue, turning back to the papers. “No. I think you would have turned out exactly as you are now. I mean it when I say you’re a wild spirit; I would have done nothing but encouraged that, and I have no doubt that you would have ended up to be the exact same untameable person you are now. The only difference is that once the war broke out I probably would have done everything within my power to escape with you.”

Aedion swallows down a lump of emotion in his throat. “Thank you.”

“You wouldn’t have been better, Aedion,” Gavriel shakes his head, tapping the . “You still would have been you. There are core parts of a person you would never want to change, and I believe that you will always be whoever you are meant to be.”

“There’s the philosophical bullshit Fenrys was talking about,” Aedion smirks after a moment.

Gavriel rolls his eyes. “Just for that I’m teaching you some philosophy.”

“You really don’t-“

“That’s my price for teaching you math,” Gavriel smiles, looking over to his son. “I teach you numbers you learn the discussions of life and morals.”

“Ech.”

“You may enjoy it.”

“If I can sit still long enough to read it,” Aedion rolls his own eyes, then grins. “By the way, you’ve been receiving a hell of a lot of letters lately. More reading material?”

Hesitating, Gavriel places his pen down, turning his seat around to face Aedion and clasping his hands. “I’ve been meaning to talk to you about that.”

“Right,” Aedion’s brows furrow at the sudden change in atmosphere.

“The last time I went to Perranth, before the visit last week, I met a woman,” Gavriel clears his throat. “We have been sending letters to each other, and last week on our trip I saw her again. She’s coming to Orynth for a short time and I thought that perhaps everyone could meet her, though I’d like to introduce you two to each other first.”

Aedion blinks at his father’s statement and the worried look he receives. “All right. We’d all be glad to meet her, you should know that.”

“It’s just,” Gavriel hesitates, “I know we made plans to visit your mothers grave in a few months time, and I don’t want you to feel betrayed in any way with me possibly starting a new relationship.”

“Are you cancelling the trip?”

“No-“

“Then there’s nothing to worry about,” Aedion shrugs. “I’ll admit that once I... I would have felt betrayed. My anger towards you would have raged at the idea of you finding peace with another female after what you did to my mother.”

“And now?” Gavriel asks quietly.

Aedion shrugs again, looking down. “You deserve to be happy.”

“Aedion.”

“I mean it. I don’t expect you to mourn my mother forever. It’s difficult, to accept the idea of you starting a serious relationship with another woman, but I never even really knew of your relationship with my mother to begin with,” Aedion appears as lost as Gavriel feels. “You don’t deserve to be lonely forever. In the past I would have felt furious and betrayed, but I don’t now.”

Gavriel studies his son closely. “Really?”

Aedion catches the look. “Gods, yes. You’re allowed to be in a relationship. It wasn’t as if my mother and you were together long or married anyway.”

“I did love your mother, Aedion,” Gavriel’s voice drops into the stern tone it sometimes adopts. “I loved her with all my heart.”

“Which is why I’m fine with you seeing a female,” Aedion stresses the point, ignoring the way his fathers admittance of love causes his heart to ache. “I’d love to meet her. It’s been nineteen years; you deserve to move on.”

“But you didn’t know until too long ago,” Gavriel reminds him gently, gold eyes soft. “Your knowledge of my relationship with your mother is still quite new.”

“Yet I’m fine,” Aedion’s own voice drops into a flat, exasperated tone as he sits back in his chair. “I’d love to meet this female. Besides, what were you going to do if I wasn’t fine with it? Leave her?”

“Yes.”

The admittance nearly knocks Aedion out of his chair, and he stares at his father. Gavriel simply shrugs and stares back.

“I- don’t do that,” Aedion blinks. “I’d be fine with any female you date.”

“That’s not the issue,” Gavriel sits back. “I’m not going to pursue a relationship with someone who does not like my son, or who you do not like.”

“I haven’t even met her yet!” Aedion growls. “I’m sure I will if you like her enough to introduce her to everybody.”

“I know,” Gavriel winces. “It’s just that she’s quite nervous about meeting you all.”

“You said she lives in Perranth. What does she do?”

“Works for the city…”

“Great,” Aedion claps his hands together. “Basically an employee of Elide!”

“That doesn’t help.”

“Just tell me what she does.”

After moments hesitation, Gavriel waves his hands towards the papers. “This. Investments, taxing, math.”

“Alright,” Aedion grins. “So she helps handle the cities finances. I can’t wait to meet her.”

“It’s more of the fact that I can’t keep putting her off,” Gavriel mutters, turning away. “You can only be injured or missing so many times.”

“I greatly resent that. I could also be travelling to visit our allies, but it’s your own fault for not thinking of better excuses.”

~~~

“So,” Aedion keeps glancing at his father, “excited? Nervous?”

“Both,” Gavriel sighs, very nearly pacing the entrance way.

They both stand outside the entrance to the palace, waiting for Gavriel’s female friend to arrive. Avila is her name, a fact Aedion had to nearly wrangle out of Gavriel. The rest of the court is on standby to meet her tomorrow, understanding (though still complaining) that Gavriel would rather she meet Aedion first then everyone else later. Apparently her nerves have been high thanks to the idea of meeting her queen and a court filled with deadly warriors. Why, nobody can guess. Gavriel just turns away from them all when they say so, exasperated.

“I’m sure it’ll be fine,” Aedion grins wickedly. “It’s not as if we’re going to actually throw her off the balcony.”

Gavriel pauses, turning to frown at his son. “What do you mean ‘actually’?

“What?”

“You said ‘actually,’ which suggests that you’ll make it seem as though you will,” Gavriel very nearly scowls. “Aedion, please don’t insinuate that you want to throw her off a balcony. I can’t stress that enough. If you’re uncomfortable with meeting her-“

“I’m not and I won’t!” Aedion holds his hands up, rolling his eyes. “But look, you’re distracted, right? And here she is.”

Turning around Gavriel smiles at the female walking through the palace entrance. She wears a cream and tan coloured dress, simple but elegant. Her starting-to-grey brown hair is plaited loosely over her shoulder and her brown eyes crinkle as she smiles back at Gavriel.

“Gavriel,” Avila smiles, stepping forward.

“Avila,” Gavriel bows his head in recognition, accepting her hug.

“You must be Aedion,” Avila beams at the wolf of the north, turning to bow. “It’s a pleasure and an honour.”

Aedion grins brightly, taking her hand and dipping his head. “You really don’t need to bow, but it’s likewise a pleasure to meet you as well.”

Avila laughs laughter, shaking her head. “You have lovely manners.”

“Don’t let them fool you,” Aedion smiles, lowering his voice to a whisper, “I’m a brute, I swear.”

“But that must be more fun,” Avila eyes gleam, her smile playful.

“Now that I can’t deny,” Aedion nods, immediately taking a liking to the free-appearing woman that turns to laugh with Gavriel once again.

“I hope I won’t bore you too badly,” Avila walks by his side, “I’m afraid that most of my conversations are number and politics based.”

“I’m all for politics,” Aedion smiles. “Better to talk about the sinners then the devils numbers.”

It earns another laugh from Avila, Gavriel nearly sagging in relief at the lack of tension between the two.

“You know,” Avila smiles widely, “I’d have to say that I quite agree with those names. Though I don’t mind the sinners or devils numbers very much.”

“I guess we’re all saints then,” Aedion smiles charmingly, Avila shaking her head in amusement.

“You never told me how amusing or charming your son is,” she smiles at Gavriel.

He raises his brows. “I must have forgotten.”

“You always leave out my best qualities,” Aedion sighs, shaking his head.

They walk into the palace, Gavriel sending his son a glance as Aedion continues to chat politely and holds the door open for Avila. His son just raises his brows, and gives a wide grin before following the woman through.

~~~

“I like her,” Aedion comments to Aelin, spread out on his cousin’s couch in her room. “She’s relaxed, and doesn’t seem to be one to judge.”

“That’s good,” Aelin calls out from the bathroom. “I don’t understand why he wanted her to meet you first. I heard she was nervous; why would you be the first choice?”

“Better then a fire-breathing bitch queen,” Aedion calls back, tucking his hands behind his head as he stares at the ceiling. “I do like her, though, and I think she’s less afraid of me then she was at the start so that’s a bonus.”

“I’m surprised Gavriel actually wants us to meet her,” Aelin grins, drying her hair in the bathroom. “Maybe he doesn’t actually like her if he’s trying so hard to scare her off.”

“Shut up,” Aedion smirks, just as the bedroom door opens.

Rowan freezes as he walks into the room, immediately settling his gaze on Aedion, who waves from where he lounges on their couch.

“Aelin?” Rowan turns towards the bathroom. “I thought we agreed no pets in the bedroom?”

He earns a vulgar gesture from the demi-fae on the couch. “You aren’t getting rid of me or Fleetfoot that easily.”

Rowan glares. “The difference is that one of you is nothing but a pain and the other takes up all the space in the bed.”

“I get nightmares,” Aedion smiles sweetly.

Snorting, Rowan throws a towel at his head, which Aedion easily catches, and walks towards his wardrobe. “Why are you in here?”

“He’s telling me about Gavriel’s new friend!” Aelin’s voice rings out from the bathroom, her grin apparent in her tone.

Rowan immediately turns to Aedion, curiosity clear. “Who is she? What’s she like?”

“Her name is Avila, she’s very kind and was lovely to me,” Aedion smiles, “and I was lovely and polite to her, so you can eat your fucking words.”

Glaring, Rowan turns away, swearing under his breath.

“I don’t know why you all thought I’d be a beast to her,” Aedion snorts. “I’m charming when I want to be.”

“Of course,” Aelin grins as she walks into the room, sitting on the edge of her bed. “That famous Ashryver charisma.”

“A brilliant family trait,” Aedion purrs, being rewarded with a smirk.

“I’ve married into a madhouse,” Rowan mutters, closing the bathroom door behind him.

Aelin frowns at the closed door. “I’ll bet you anything he’s the reason why Avila is nervous.”

“Oh, definitely. The rest of us are perfect.”

“I couldn’t agree more.”

~~~

“Just relax,” Gavriel murmurs to Avila, stepping a little closer as they walk to the dining hall. “It’s just a meal, and I’m sure they’ll love you. Aedion already does.”

She sends a nervous smile. “I quite like him, he’s charming and polite for his age.”

Gavriel’s eyes slowly slide to the side. “Yes, he is…”

They step into the dining hall, the Terrasen court sitting at their usual table. Avila follows Gavriel, sharing a small smile with Aedion before turning to the rest.

“Your Majesties,” she bows deeply to Aelin and Rowan. “Thank you for honouring me with your time.”

“Anything for Uncle Kitty Cat,” Aelin smiles, then snaps to a growling Aedion, “I’m allowed to say that now!”

Smiling tentatively, Avila sits next to Gavriel and nods at the plate that’s placed in front of her.

“So,” Fenrys grins, leaning forward. “Tell us the story of how you two met.”

“When trading financial paper,” Gavriel answers dryly. “Now sit back and stop showing your teeth.”

Scowling, Fenrys glances to him before looking away. “Finances. You know, going through trading documents are usually my task.”

“To keep you distracted,” Vaughan mumbles, earning a glare.

“Because I’m good at it,” Fenrys sits back, arms crossed.

“Where do you live?” Rowan asks.

“Perranth.”

“Permanent residence?”

Avila hesitates momentarily. “For the time being, yes, however I’ve been receiving offers to work elsewhere…”

“Really?” Gavriel smiles at her. “That’s fantastic.”

“Where?” Vaughan quizzes her. “Here in Orynth? Someone still in Terrasen? Or are you switching countries?”

Avila hesitates. “I don’t know if I will take any offers yet-”

“How do you receive offers?” Evangeline asks curiously. “Do they ask you to come and work through their numbers?”

Avila smiles brightly at her, an action that causes Evangeline to smile back. “That’s exactly it. If they like what I’ve done with my current work they’ll consider taking me on themselves.”

“So you have financial stability then?” Fenrys tilts his head. “You’re able to support yourself and, say, a single fae male parent and his child?”

“Alright,” Aedion stands suddenly, glaring at Fenrys out of the corner of his eye. “Avila, why don’t you come with me to grab some food from the table over there?”

“Right, I would love to,” she sends everyone a strained smile before standing with her plate, following Aedion to the table heavy with delights.

Everyone watches as the two stand by the table, chatting to each other as they pile food upon their plates. The court watches them with a calculating gaze, relaxing slightly when Aedion laughs heartedly at something she says.

“I can’t believe Aedion isn’t the most uncomfortable person here,” Lysandra mumbles, she herself quite protective of the Lion, having spent a few periods of her day spying on the female in the form of small animals. “Would have thought he’d be uncomfortable with her, or at the very least uninterested.”

“I know,” Gavriel breathes. “But he seems to quite like her.”

“So,” Fenrys sips at his drink, gesturing to the two at the table, “first Lucia and now her. I suppose you must have a thing for brown-haired females, huh?”

Blinking, Gavriel slowly turns away from watching his son to stare at Fenrys. “Yes, I clearly have a thing for brown-haired females. Look at my son, Fenrys. Look at my blond, golden-haired son and guess again whether or not I have a thing for brown-haired females. Dear gods.”

“Well, someone’s stressed and sassy,” Fenrys mumbles, turning away, a cup tilted to his lips.

“I’m just a little surprised,” Rowan mumbles to his eldest friend, leaning in close. “With your plans to visit Aedion’s mother’s grave I didn’t expect for you to become so interested in females at this time.”

Gavriel shrugs, rubbing a hand over his face as if to relieve the tension there.

Aelin raises her brows at Rowan and mouthes ‘rebound.’

He glares and shakes his head.

“What did we miss?” Avila asks, returning with Aedion.

“Nothing important,” Gavriel smiles, taking her hand as she sits.

The rest of the evening goes smoothly, people chatting and answering each other’s questions. Avila bidding everyone goodnight as Gavriel walks her to her rooms.

“I had a lovely evening,” she smiles up at Gavriel, allowing her hand to slip into his. “Aedion is a gem.”

“Yes,” Gavriel smiles, the action only a little fake. “He was… incredibly polite.”

“You sound surprised?”

“Oh, no,” Gavriel quickly laughs. “It’s nothing. I’m glad you enjoyed yourself.”

“I’m glad I came,” Avila turns the corner. “So, what about the trip?”

“What trip?”

“The one Fenrys said he had planned to go to Perranth again.”

About to turn the corner Aedion stops, grinning at the way he can hear Gavriel and Avila only a few hallways away. He stops, preparing to turn back, knowing that if he wonders any closer he’ll be able to hear their conversation.

“Ah,” Gavriel sighs. “That trip.”

However, at Gavriel’s words of the trip he stops and, using his fae hearing, listens instead of moving to a distance where he is unable to understand them. Screw it. He’s been good for the last few days. Listening in for a few minutes won’t kill anyone.

“Are you looking forward to it?” Avila asks.

“Hardly.”

Aedion blinks and jolts at Gavriel’s words. He was under the opinion that his father also wanted to visit his mothers grave.

“Why not?” Avila asks Aedion’s question for him.

“He has a knack for knowing how to irritate me after long periods of time. He enjoys it.”

Hesitating, Aedion takes another step back. Perhaps he should have realised what a strain his presence can put on his father, especially considering Gavriel and he have only started spending longer periods of time together. But Gavriel thinking that Aedion tries to purposefully annoy him? What has Aedion been doing wrong to give him that idea?

Avila chuckles slightly, something that also sends a cold shiver of dread. “I can imagine, if that’s not too rude to say.”

“Not at all.”

That’s also a shock; he was under the impression that Avila liked him.

“I also have to ask; Aedion’s abilities with numbers... he didn’t seem to grasp many of the topics I was talking about.”

“Right,” Aedion can practically hear his father fidgeting. “The war broke out in the middle of his education; there was no real need for him to learn about finances.”

Some of the dread turns to anger. Aedion can see that his father enjoys the company of Avila, but to go as far as to say Aedion’s secret, to dismiss their visit to his mothers grave- He turns on his heel and storms away.

~~~

Rowan frowns at Aedion, who lays on his bed with a torn up pillow in his hands. “I may regret asking this, but why are you in my bed and appear to have mauled one of my pillows?”

“Would you rather I maul someone?” Aedion growls, tightening his grip on the fabric, eyes bright with anger.

“No,” Rowan crosses his arms and leans back against a dresser, familiar with the anger that so many demi-fae Aedion’s age produce. “I take it you’re waiting to talk to Aelin?”

Aedion simply relaxes back into the centre of the bed. You’d think he’d at least have the decency to only take up Aelin’s side. But no. Rowan inhales a deep breath to grab a rein on his own anger.

“What’s this about, Aedion?” Rowan finally asks.

It could be easier to leave it up to Aelin, she herself probably holding plenty of complaints to share with her cousin in return, but it’s been a while since Rowan has seen his brother-in-arms this conflicted.

Aedion’s jaw tenses as he thinks over the words to use. “Gavriel may be sick of my company, and I should have noticed it earlier.”

Rowan’s interest greatly perks at that. He could tell Aedion that he’s being ridiculous. He could tell Aedion that after he does any kind of activity with Gavriel his father describes it in detail for long periods of time to his other former-cadre members. He could tell Aedion that there’s no way for Gavriel to be sick with him when Gavriel is happy for days after he spends time with his son.

But he doesn’t, not when he needs to first understand how Aedion could come to that assumption. “Why would you think that?”

“I overheard him talking in the hallway with Avila. Apparently he thinks I enjoy annoying him and he isn’t looking forward to our trip.”

Rowan sinks into a chair. There’s no possible outcome where his friend wouldn’t wish to spend time with his son, or where Gavriel isn’t preparing for the trip to visit Aedion’s mother’s grave. It’s all the Lion has been planning for the last few weeks.

“Talk to Gavriel, Aedion,” Rowan advices. “Talk to your father, Aedion. I guarantee that it’ll end up clearing whatever mistakes you have stumbled across.”

“Right,” Aedion glares, and stands, making to leave the room. “Thank you for your sagely advice.”

“You’re welcome.”

Of course, now Aelin will have to complain to Rowan, her nightly complain session with her cousin cancelled.

Perfect.

At least his bed is free.

~~~

“Aedion!” Avila smiles, catching him in the hallway. “How are you?”

“I’m fine,” Aedion flashes one of his best smiles, her own showing of teeth disarming him as he tries to fight off any aggression he may feel towards her.

After all, it’s Gavriel who he’s confused by.

“I was just talking to Gavriel,” Avila says as she falls into step besides him. “He’s in the library, if you’re wondering.”

“I see,” Aedion nods, not bothering to mention that he heard them chatting around the corner from the room. “Interesting conversation?”

Laughing slightly, Avila shakes her head. “He’s  quite aggrieved by the idea of travelling with Fenrys again. He’s not looking forward to the next trip.”

Oh. Aedion blinks, falling silent. Oh.

That makes more sense.

But…

His father still told her about his trouble and cut-off education, even when he said that he didn’t want Aelin or Lysandra to know.

“Thank you,” Aedion smiles at Avila, dipping his head in acknowledgement. “Are you retiring for the night?”

“I might,” she puffs out a breath. “It’s been quite a long, interesting day.”

He bids her goodnight, and heads to the library.

~~~

“I’m sorry.”

“What?” Gavriel blinks at his son, looking up from his book.

“I said I’m sorry.”

“I know, but what f-“

“Just accept my apology!” Aedion scowls, already aggrieved with having to force out the words, his stubborn pride nearly hauling them back.

“Alright,” Gavriel says slowly, concerned, as he closes his book and sits up in the chair. “But what-“

“Don’t worry about it.”

“It’s hard not to,” Gavriel gives his son a bemused look at the way Aedion has his arms crossed, a scowl firmly in place. “Is this about how you overheard Avila and I talking? It’s fine; I understand that it’s been difficult for you to block out sounds with your heightened hearing. You were far away enough that it couldn’t have been intentional.”

“You knew?”

“Your my son. Your scent is easy for me to pick up on,” Gavriel places his book on the table, still smiling with humour. “If that’s what’s been worrying you then it’s fine, you don’t need to be so adamant about apologising.”

Sucking in a breath, Aedion tries to steady himself. It’s difficult to maintain anger when his father is already two steps ahead in this conversation.

“I also wanted to apologise for telling Avila about your cut off in education,” Gavriel sighs, looking his son in the eye. “I struggled to lie to her, but that’s no excuse. I’m sorry, I understand that you must be angry with how uncomfortable her knowing may be.”

Aedion stares for a moment, then growls and shakes his head. “You are making it really fucking hard to be angry.”

“Then don’t be angry.”

He can practically see his son’s mind slow to a stop at that, trying to process the unfamiliar words in shock as Aedion blinks at him.

“I am sorry, though,” Gavriel places his hands on Aedion’s shoulders, gaze earnest. “I know that it must have angered you. I can’t pretend to know how you feel, but it’s never my intention to cause you discomfort or pain.”

Stooped, Aedion blinks at his father again, scowl replaced with a slightly bewildered gape. “Shit, you make arguing difficult.”

“We’re not arguing,” Gavriel fights back a smile, failing miserably. “Is that what you where expecting?”

“I…” Aedion shrugs slightly with Gavriel’s hands still on his shoulder. “Yes?”

“That’s not what we’re doing,” Gavriel steps back, gently mussing his son’s hair with one hand.

Again, Aedion blinks at the soft touch, looking as though he’s been whacked in the skull and unsteady. Gavriel claps his son’s shoulder before leaving, walking out of the library.

He really shouldn’t laugh at his son’s antics as much as he does, but he can’t help but chuckle.

~~~

“I- You’re leaving?”

“Yes,” Avila holds his hand gently between her own, looking up at him with a pained expression. “I’ve been excepted to help with the records at Antica. It’s an offer that I just can’t turn down.”

“I understand,” Gavriel nods slowly, cupping her hands in his own. “Is it selfish of me to wish that you could stay?”

“No,” Avila smiles slightly. “Not selfish. For what it’s worth, I really did enjoy my time with you.”

“And I with you.”

~~~

Two days later, she leaves. Gavriel watches her go, his son, niece (and queen, for Aelin’s been mixing up titles lately) and former cadre-members standing by his side as they watch her go.

“You have really bad luck when it comes to females.

“Shut up, Fenrys.”