50. Everly
Everly
Chapter fifty
Standing beside Raiden, I feel the warmth of the sun on my skin as Kian and Tristan stand confidently behind me. From our vantage point on the side stage, we absorb the vibrant atmosphere that surrounds us. The air is filled with anticipation and excitement as thousands of eager onlookers gather to witness Maxon ascend the throne. The sound of cheers and applause fills the air, mingling with the soft melodies of the musicians playing nearby. Amidst the crowd, the scent of fresh flowers wafts, infusing a tinge of sweetness into the already electric atmosphere. I am so proud of him, and even though she is well versed in hiding her feelings, I can see the tears in Lavina’s eyes as she watches on like a proud mother. With every step Maxon takes toward the throne, the crowd’s adoration for him swells, creating an undeniable energy that passes through the air.
Raiden leans over to whisper in my ear. “The crown is a bit much, don’t you think?”
I cover my mouth and chuckle. “It is a bit flashy. I don’t think it’s Maxon’s style.”
Raiden grins. “He will get matching crowns made more to his liking for the two of you.”
His words slam into me, reminding me of the implications of being with Maxon. Even though, according to Valric, I am queen to my own people. I look out over the crowd gathered and feel nerves replacing my excitement from moments ago. So much has changed in such a short amount of time.
As the crowd grows quiet, I shift my attention back to the raised dais. Maxon stands tall, his formal attire accentuating his commanding presence, his long black cloak flowing as he moves, the dragon emblem proudly displayed over his heart.
“My people, as your new king, I pledge my unwavering devotion to the prosperity of our realm. I stand before you not as an individual, but as a protector of the great magic that courses through the veins of our kingdom. With immense gratitude and humility, I accept the mantle of kingship bestowed upon me by the sacred will of our people. I hope to be everything you wish for in a good ruler, but today, we are not only here to celebrate my ascension as king but also welcome the radiant heartbeat of our beloved kingdom—the enchanting soul who has chosen to stand by my side, your future queen and my beloved fiancée.”
My heart skips a beat, and I find myself frozen as Maxon’s eyes meet mine. A smile graces his face as he reaches out his hand toward me.
“That’s your cue, princess,” Kian mutters from behind me.
‘This wasn’t part of the plan,’ I hiss down the bond.
With a small shrug, Maxon's eyes spark with amusement. ‘I’m improvising, plus you're too beautiful not to show off.’
Facing burning, I step forward with a low grumble, and Raiden comes to my side, offering his hand to assist me up the three steps onto the dais. I shoot him a grateful smile, then proceed to walk over to Maxon. Reaching for his hand, a gentle warmth spreads through my fingers. With a burst of excitement, Nymeria and Anika come bounding up behind me, their tongues lolling out of their mouths. Some of the fae closest to the dias gasp in shock at the two wolves circling Maxon and me before laying at our feet.
Feeling the weight of all these eyes on me, my fight or flight instincts are kicking into high gear. Among the crowd, I notice a few fae, and my gaze meets that of a small family of gray-skinned creatures in the front row. Their frowns are evident, but the youngest, a little girl, has the biggest smile on her face, which brings me some much-needed relief from my anxiety.
‘Don’t be scared. I got you.’
I release a soft, content sigh, my lips curling into a smile. ‘Because it’s just so easy to do.’
‘Trust me, Stóirín.’
The crowd has been silent the entire time since Maxon called me to his side, only faint murmurs among a few. As Maxon addresses the crowd once more, I intertwine my arm with his, drawing on his warmth and strength.
“It is with immense pleasure that I introduce to you my heart and soul, Everly Baker. The last druid princess, daughter of King Oleander.”
Cheers erupt from the crowd, along with murmurs of excitement and shock.
Lavina steps forward, and the crowd takes a moment to calm down. When they do, she faces us, and I am really confused by the look she is giving us. I really thought she hated me.
‘She did in the beginning when she thought you were a human spy, here to lure me down the wrong path.’
I jolt inwardly. ‘Well, now I’m a druid she is approving then?’
‘Yes.’
I can't stop my eyes from rolling.
“Your presence here today marks not only a union of hearts but a fusion of destinies, intertwining the fate of two souls who have found solace and strength in each other’s embrace.
“Together, Maxon and Everly, you stand as a testament to the enduring magic of love in our fae realm. Your union heralds a new chapter in our history—one that promises prosperity, unity, and an abundance of joy for generations to come.”
I look out over all those gathered, my eyes drawn to the back of the crowd, where a hooded figure stands motionless, their face obscured by the shadows. I can feel the unwavering focus as if they can see right into the depths of my soul, and I know it’s Valric.
Thoughts race through my mind, each one like a jagged puzzle piece, trying to fit together the fragments of Valric’s motives. Does he believe I have abandoned him? Is he hurt by my choice to stay with Maxon? The uncertainty gnaws at me, fueling my inner turmoil. The weight of guilt presses down on my shoulders, making it difficult to draw a steady breath. Deep down, I still care for Valric. The bond we once shared cannot be easily severed. He still is my true paladin, bound by oath to keep me safe.
In the midst of the crowd, Zaria and Rayna spot me and make their way over. It is impossible to miss their huge, bright smiles, which brings a sense of joy to me. The festivities are in full swing, with music and dancing, while I am completely exhausted and barely able to stand. I notice I don't possess the same level of energy as these fae creatures. I also haven’t spent a lot of time outside as of late, and I really need to recharge in the garden. As a druid, my magic flows from the very essence of the natural world, and being surrounded by its beauty is essential for me to recharge and restore my abilities. No wonder I was so drawn to the gardens when I first arrived, and hiked in the human world every weekend. The vibrant colors, soothing scents, and the gentle rustling of leaves have always captivated me. Little did I know that it was more than just a personal preference; it was an instinctual need to connect with nature and replenish my druidic powers.
“Everly!” Rayna laughs, wrapping her arms around me. “You look absolutely amazing in this dress.”
The bubbly shifter playfully spins me around, and I feel a rush of dizziness as my surroundings become a blur. I lose my balance and stumble to the side, but Zaria is there in an instant, grabbing hold of my arm to steady me.
“You okay?”
“I wasn’t expecting that.” I laugh.
Zaria’s eyes linger on my dress, and a warm smile spreads across her face. “The shimmering gold and vibrant green colors truly work wonders on you. It really makes your skin glow and captivates the hue of your green eyes.”
I lower my gaze toward the exquisite ball dress, expertly chosen by Zaria, and glide my fingers delicately across the velvety smoothness of the satin fabric, relishing its gentle caress against my skin. The off-the-shoulder ballgown accentuates my curves beautifully, hugging my upper body, while gracefully flaring at the waist like a classic gown.
“I can’t believe the king put you on the spot like that.” Rayna’s brown eyes are sparkling. “Everyone was wondering who the gorgeous fae was with the king’s personal guards. The whole of Skora is so excited to have the lost princess here and marrying our king.”
My fingers instinctively graze my pointed ear, a tangible reminder that I am still adjusting to these unfamiliar traits.
“Not everyone,” I murmur, having caught the cautious stares of some.
Zaria waves her hand. “There are always some who will oppose. We all know the prophecy. Just like we all know your magic will not destroy the realm. The past occurrences are not going to be repeated. I don’t know who brainwashed the others into their plans to kill your family, but the king would not let that happen again. He would slaughter any who try, and I’d be right there with him.”
Rayna and I stare at Zaria for a moment. Even Asrai seems shocked by her outburst. Her dual-colored eyes are wide in disbelief.
“Wow, Z. Really going for it there.” Rayna nervously glances around.
“Well, it’s true. Everly has us at her back, and anyone who tries to harm her under false accusations will meet their end swiftly.”
I reach for Zaria's hand, my chest swelling with a mix of emotions that I am suddenly finding it hard to contain.
“I’m so lucky to have you as a friend.” Sniffing, I can't help but feel a burning sensation in my eyes. “Great, now I’m going to cry.” I laugh.
Rayna grins. “You two are cute. But seriously, Z, easy on the talk, you need to be cautious. There are people who don’t want the courts to reconcile. They prefer this division, and we still haven’t identified the spy.”
Somehow, with everything that has been going on, I forgot about the spy. As of now, Nolan is locked away in the dungeons, eagerly anticipating Maxon's decision regarding his punishment. Nonetheless, we are still unable to make any progress in uncovering the identity of the individual providing information to the unseelie prince.
“I won’t apologize!” Zaria snaps, her ears twitching in annoyance.
“I’m not asking you to. Just be cautious,” Rayna begs.
Zaria sighs heavily and nods. “Fine. I’ll keep quiet.”
“Thank you.” Rayna looks around and spots some of her friends and waves. “Do you mind if I go see my friends?”
“Of course not,” Zaria and I answer together.
Smiling, I look at her. “Jinx.”
“Huh?”
“Never mind.” I wave her off.
Rayna embraces Zaria, giving her a brief hug before waving goodbye. The moment Rayna waves goodbye and excitedly heads toward her friends, Zaria swiftly turns and looks directly at me.
“What’s wrong?” Zaria asks, pulling me aside.
“Huh?”
She gives me a knowing look. “Look, we have only known each other for, like, a few weeks, but I can tell something is wrong. Plus, you look a little pale. Are you sick?”
My cheeks flush with warmth as I inch closer to her. “Is there somewhere we can talk? In private.”
Concern shines in Zaria’s big brown eyes, her tail swishing back and forth. “Sure, come with me.”
She grabs my hand in hers and leads me through the crowd of people, toward a side door. Pushing it open, we slip outside onto a small balcony, which seems to be empty.
“Right, what’s wrong?” She turns to me.
"I'm– It's–" I stammer, my eyes shifting to Zaria, trying to determine if this is a common occurrence among shifters or fae. I've gone through my Renascitur, and now I'm uncertain about what lies ahead.
Zaria patiently waits for me to collect my thoughts. I adore her for being so understanding.
“I have my period!” I blurt.
Zaria’s eyes narrow and she tilts her head to the side, as if what I’m saying makes no sense to her.
I know I’m bright red right now, but I’m going to have to be blunt.
“I’m bleeding . . . down there,” I whisper, pointing.
Zaria’s eyes widen, her mouth forming an O shape. “Oh, right. We call it the Cycle of Brigid.”
I wrinkle my nose in response. “Isn’t she a goddess?”
Zaria's laughter fills the air, and I notice Asrai trying to stifle her own amusement, her hand pressed against her lips.
“Yes. She was the goddess of spring, the dawn, and fertility.”
‘Each marking a new beginning,’ Asrai signs.
“Well, thank the goddess. You know what I’m talking about.” My shoulders slump with relief. “I need painkillers and to get out of this dress. My cramps are killing me,” I groan.
“Do I need to send for a healer?”
“No. I just need some rest. Can we sneak away? You can rejoin the party. I just need help out of this dress.”
“Of course. Let’s get you comfortable.” Zaria links her arm in mine.
We step back inside, where Kian and Tristan are waiting by the doors.
“You ladies, okay?” Kian asks, eyeing us suspiciously.
“I’m heading back to my room.”
“Already?” Tristan frowns.
“Yes, is that okay with you?” I snap, whipping my head in his direction.
Tristan raises an eyebrow at me in question, and I close my eyes, breathing through a cramp. This tight dress really wasn’t helping. I also wasn't sure what I could use for the bleeding, and Zaria had already left earlier, so I have ripped up a small towel for now.
I cling onto Zaria’s arm and once the cramp has passed, I open my eyes and look at Tristan.
“Sorry, but I’m done for the night. Once you escort me back, you can come back to the festivities if you wish.”
Kian and Tristan share a look. But Zaria and I don’t wait for them before making our way toward Maxon’s chambers.
“Can we come in?” Kian asks, as Zaria is about to close the door.
“No.” Zaria and I speak at the same time.
Closing the door, Zaria turns to me and smiles softly. “Let’s get you out of that dress.”
“Please!” I groan.
A sheen of sweat forms on my skin as the cramps ramp up their intensity.
The pain is so intense that I double over, clutching my stomach. “Motherfucker,” I grit, my breathing turning heavy.
Zaria places a comforting hand on my back. “Has it always been this bad?”
“Yes, always.”
“Let's get this dress off, and I’ll get you some herbal tea.”
I nod and stand straight so she can unlace the dress.
‘Stóirín is everything okay? Tristan just informed me you are turning in for the night?’
‘A chroí, I’m fine. I am in our room. Please enjoy your night.’
‘I will be there soon.’
‘No. You have just been crowned king. Stay. Your people need to see you.’
I can feel his hesitation, his need to see I’m okay.
So I close my eyes and send my love and affection through the bond. ‘I’ll be here when you return. I promise.’
‘Okay, my love.’
A wave of adoration washes over me, momentarily easing the pain.
“There.” Zaria tugs the dress down, and I step out of it and settle myself on the comfortable bed.
Zaria disappears and returns with a stack of clothes and lady items. Thank the goddess. I head to the bathroom and shower, pulling on the clothes Zaria gave me. They must be Maxon’s, as huge as they are on me, but as I lift them to my nose and smell, a wave of peace moves through me, relaxing my tense muscles.
“The smell of your mate will ease the pain,” Zaria explains, when she sees me sniffing Maxon’s clothes.
“Oh, well that’s handy.” I smile.
I lie down in Maxon’s bed after Zaria has given me an herbal tea to help with the cramping. Hugging his pillow to my chest, I curl into a ball. My cramps may have dulled, but they’re still bothering me.
Just as I’m drifting off to sleep, I hear the chamber doors creaking open and instantly sense Maxon entering the room. That swarm of butterflies that usually appear when he is near grows.
The bed dips behind me, and his fingers stroke my hair. “Stóirín, are you okay? Zaria tells me you are unwell?”
I roll my head so I can see him when I talk. “I’m okay, just female issues,” I whisper.
Maxon’s brows furrow and his jaw clenches. “What do you mean? Did someone hurt you?”
I grin and reach up, sliding my hand over his jaw. “No. It’s . . . ” What did Zaria call it? “You fae call it the cycle of Brigid.”
Maxon’s eyes blaze in the dark, and I feel his confusion for a moment before his features smooth out and understanding softens his features. Standing from the bed, I watch him disappear into the bathroom and then return several minutes later. He’s carrying what looks to be a small pillow. He quickly strips off his clothes, leaving on his briefs, and climbs into bed behind me. Placing the heated pillow on my lower stomach, he presses against my back, his body molding perfectly around mine. I let out a deep sigh of contentment, instantly feeling the tension melt away from my body.